Templeton Rye 6 Year Old Whiskey

Here's a breakdown of the Templeton Rye 6 Year Old, a rye whiskey known for its smoothness and subtle sweetness:

Description:

• Produced by Templeton Rye Distillery in Templeton, Iowa.
• A rye whiskey, meaning the mash bill must contain at least 51% rye grain. The remaining grains are undisclosed but likely include corn and malted barley.
• Aged for 6 years in new charred American oak barrels. The use of new oak adds more prominent oak character compared to used barrels.
• Bottled at 91.5 proof (45.75% ABV).
• A core offering from Templeton Rye, meaning it's a widely available expression.

Tasting Notes:

• Aroma: Offers a pleasant balance of rye spice, sweetness, and hints of fruit:

  • Rye Spice: A noticeable but not overpowering peppery spice, a signature characteristic of rye whiskey.
  • Vanilla: A prominent note from the aging in new charred oak barrels, adding sweetness and creaminess.
  • Caramel: Another note associated with oak aging, offering richness and sweetness.
  • Fruit: Hints of cherry, green apple, or other fruits might be present, adding complexity.
  • Floral: Some reviewers mention a touch of floral notes.

• Palate: Smooth and mellow, with a good balance of rye spice, sweetness, and oak influence:

  • Rye Spice: The peppery spice is present but balanced by the sweetness.
  • Vanilla & Caramel: These notes carry over from the aroma, providing a creamy sweetness that complements the spice.
  • Oak: Hints of toasted oak become more apparent on the palate, adding dryness and structure.
  • Fruit: Subtle fruit flavors like cherry or apple might linger.
  • Other: Some reviewers mention hints of baking spices, honey, or even a touch of chocolate.

• Finish: Medium-length and satisfying:

  • Spice: A lingering warmth from the rye spice.
  • Vanilla & Oak: Hints of vanilla and toasted oak might persist.

Overall:

Templeton Rye 6 Year Old is known for its smoothness and easy-drinking character. The rye spice is noticeable but not overwhelming, making it a good choice for those new to rye whiskey or who prefer a more approachable rye experience. Here are some additional points to consider:

• Reviews for this rye whiskey are generally positive, with many appreciating its smooth character and balanced flavor profile.
• It's a versatile rye whiskey that can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails like the Manhattan or Old Fashioned.
• Compared to Templeton Rye's standard 4-year expression, the 6 Year Old might offer a slightly more complex and richer flavor profile due to the additional aging time.