Masterson's 10 Year Canadian Straight Rye Whiskey: A Decade of Pure Rye Excellence
Experience the epitome of Canadian rye with Masterson's 10 Year Canadian Straight Rye Whiskey. This highly acclaimed expression is a pure and unadulterated tribute to the rye grain, meticulously crafted and patiently aged to deliver a rich, complex, and exceptionally smooth sipping experience that stands tall among the world's finest whiskies.
Masterson's 10 Year is distinguished by its 100% rye mash bill, featuring only the most fragrant and plump rye grains. It is distilled with precision using an old-fashioned pot still method, which helps to retain the full, robust character of the rye. The spirit is then aged for a minimum of 10 years in perfectly charred new white oak casks. This prolonged interaction with the virgin oak, combined with the clean, pure glacial water from the northern Rockies used in its production, allows for a profound development of flavor and an unparalleled smoothness. Bottled at a bold yet balanced 45% ABV (90 Proof), Masterson's 10 Year Canadian Straight Rye Whiskey is a rye drinker's rye, offering a truly exceptional and authentic taste of aged Canadian craftsmanship.
Key Characteristics:
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100% Rye Mash Bill: Crafted entirely from rye grain, offering an uncompromising and authentic rye flavor profile.
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10-Year Age Statement: Matured for a full decade in new white oak casks, contributing to its exceptional smoothness and depth.
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Pot Still Distillation: Utilizes traditional pot stills to preserve more of the rye's inherent character and oils.
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"Straight Rye" Designation: Meets the strict definition of traditional straight rye whiskey, aged in new, charred oak.
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Robust Proof (45% ABV / 90 Proof): Delivers a significant flavor presence and full body.
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Highly Awarded: Consistently recognized with top honors by leading spirits competitions and critics.
Tasting Notes:
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Appearance: Medium-light caramel to rich amber.
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Nose: Complex and inviting, with prominent notes of black tea, anise, allspice, and orange zest. Underlying aromas of toffee, caramel, spearmint, and maple wood add layers of sweetness and herbaceousness.
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Palate: Bold and expressive, yet remarkably smooth. Warm spices like cracked black pepper, nutmeg, and clove lead the way, beautifully balanced by delicate sweetness of maple and vanilla. Notes of toasted grain, creamy breakfast cereal, and hints of tobacco contribute to its rich, evolving profile.
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Finish: Long, lingering, and exceptionally refined. Classic rye spice persists, accompanied by notes of oak, earth, and a subtle, satisfying sweetness from maple or caramel.
Awards & Recognition:
Masterson's 10 Year Canadian Straight Rye Whiskey has received widespread critical acclaim and numerous prestigious awards:
- "Best Whiskey in Canada" – Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2015 (96.5 points)
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"Whiskey of the Year 2016" – ISW (International Spirits Competition)
- Gold Medal, ISW 2016 (International Spirits Competition)
- Canadian Whiskey of the Year 2017
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Double Gold Medal, San Francisco World Spirits Competition (multiple years, including 2012, 2013, 2015)
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95 Points, Whisky Advocate (Spring 2017) – Described as "Hugely complex, with new rewards in every sip."
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94 Points, Wine Enthusiast (multiple years, including 2012, 2016)
- Chairman's Trophy (Best Rye Whiskey), Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2012
Overall Impression:
Masterson's 10 Year Canadian Straight Rye Whiskey is an outstanding example of what can be achieved when pure rye is given ample time to mature in quality oak. Its decade of aging results in a spirit that is exceptionally smooth, deeply complex, and bursting with the bold, yet harmonious, flavors of rye. As a highly awarded and critically acclaimed expression, Masterson's 10 Year is an essential addition for any discerning whisky enthusiast or collector seeking a truly remarkable and authentic straight rye experience.
