Alberta Premium Canadian Rye Whisky: The Original 100% Rye from the Canadian Prairies
Discover the bold and distinctive character of Alberta Premium Canadian Rye Whisky, proudly distilled in Calgary, Alberta, since 1958. As the #1 selling 100% rye whisky in the world, Alberta Premium stands as the gold standard for Canadian rye, embodying centuries of grain-to-glass expertise. Crafted exclusively from 100% unmalted Canadian prairie rye grain – a rarity in Canadian whisky – and blended with pristine, glacier-fed Rocky Mountain water, this whisky offers unmatched purity and a truly authentic taste of its rugged origins. Aged for a minimum of five years in new and used American oak barrels, Alberta Premium delivers a complex yet approachable profile that is both spicy and smooth, making it a versatile choice for any whisky enthusiast.
Key Characteristics:
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100% Canadian Prairie Rye: Uniquely crafted from 100% unmalted rye grain, providing a bold and distinctive rye character.
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Aged a Minimum of 5 Years: Patiently matured in a combination of new white oak and used ex-bourbon barrels, developing depth and smoothness.
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Pure Rocky Mountain Water: Distilled with nutrient-dense, glacier-fed spring water from the Canadian Rockies for unparalleled purity.
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Hybrid Distillation: Utilizes both continuous and pot still distillation methods to create a balanced and complex spirit.
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Award-Winning Heritage: Recognized globally for its quality and pioneering role as one of the first 100% rye whiskies.
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Versatile (40% ABV): Excellent for sipping neat, on the rocks, or as a robust base for classic whisky cocktails.
Tasting Notes:
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Appearance: Rich gold to amber gold, reflecting its aging.
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Nose: Inviting aromas of banana, toffee, and light spice are prominent, often with hints of sweet vanilla, caramel, and a subtle earthiness.
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Palate: Exceptionally smooth and mellow, with a balanced interplay of sweet and spicy notes. Flavors of caramel and vanilla intermingle with the distinct peppery spice of rye. Hints of chocolate, black currant, and dried fruit can also be found.
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Finish: Smooth and lingering, with a pleasant warmth, echoing notes of vanilla, spice, and a touch of oak.
Awards & Recognition (for various Alberta Premium expressions, particularly the Cask Strength, which highlights the quality of the base spirit):
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"World Whisky of the Year" by Jim Murray's Whisky Bible 2021 (for Alberta Premium Cask Strength Rye)
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Double Gold Medal, San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2020 & 2021 (for Cask Strength Rye)
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Double Gold Medal, SIP Awards 2021 & 2022 (for Cask Strength Rye)
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Best All Rye Whisky, Canadian Whisky Awards 2021 (for Cask Strength Rye)
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1st Place Best Canadian Whisky, International Whisky Competition 2021 (for Cask Strength Rye)
- Gold Medal, International Spirits Challenge 2021
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Distillery of the Decade, Canadian Whisky Awards 2020 (for Alberta Distillers Ltd.)
- Consistently praised by spirits critics for its bold flavor and smooth character.
Overall Impression:
Alberta Premium Canadian Rye Whisky stands as a true icon of Canadian distilling, single-handedly championing the 100% rye style. Its commitment to quality, from the local prairie grains and Rocky Mountain water to its meticulous aging process, results in a whisky that is both historically significant and remarkably delicious. Whether you're a seasoned rye aficionado or exploring the category for the first time, Alberta Premium offers an authentic, flavorful, and incredibly smooth experience that continues to set the standard for Canadian whisky globally.