Whiskey Review #003
Hochstadter's Vatted Straight Rye Whiskey
Final Rating
4.8/10
Background: Cooper Spirits Company created this third release utilizing the “vatted” distinction, essentially mixing a variety of different ryes into a single “vat” to marry the flavors of the blend. This specific blend has included rye whiskies from Kentucky, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and Alberta, all between the ages of 4-18 years; though I would wager the 18-year comes from Canada (more on that later). Cooper Spirits also creates Lock Stock & Barrel, whose 20-year rye is, by a country mile, the best rye I have ever tasted. I had high hopes for this bottle!
Nose: There is a lot going on in the nose starting with an odd medicinal odor. That quickly fades to whiffs of damp hay and a “yeast-y” smell reminiscent of leftover oatmeal drying in a bowl on the counter. It follows with fresh cut arugula. This one takes me back to working as a ranch hand in Montana with that damp hay on the nose.
Taste: This light rye provides a very brief hit of sweetness giving way immediately to fairly intense pepper and rye bread. I think the Canadian rye influence is heavy on this blend. Mildly fruity with sour notes dominating including pithy-citrus and sour cherry. The oak starts to come through after the first few sips, but with a tannic bitterness
Finish: The finish is short-lived; disappointingly so. The finish on the Lock Stock and Barrel 20 year lasted for ages, so I was hoping for something similar. Vanilla and tannic oak are enjoyed for a brief moment before being left with a dry and mildly bitter sensation, like tasting a pinch of raw cocoa powder.
Overall Thoughts: I wanted so badly to enjoy this one given my love for its 20 year old brother. In the end, it was fine, but lacked the depth and character I was hoping for. The blend felt over-powered by the Canadian Whiskey component and was lighter and thinner than expected. For $59.99, picked up at my local supplier, it was worth the try, but I think this will likely be relegated to a viable mixer for Manhattans.
Tasting wheel adapted from Bourbon and Banter's Flavor Wheel
