High West Distillery High West Double Rye NV 750ml

Billed as “the spiciest rye whiskey anywhere,” this is a blend of two rye whiskeys, both a minimum of two years old, sourced from multiple distilleries. The 2018 bottling has a mild, honeyed scent, while the palate surprises with vanilla custard contrasted by traces of smoke, eucalyptus and cigar wrapper. As promised, the long finish explodes with a spicy burst — but don’t worry, it’s not too extreme to sip.

A blend of two straight whiskeys: a very young 2 year old high rye content whiskey and a 16 year old rye whiskey with a lower rye content. Perhaps the spiciest American whiskey I have ever tasted, yet at the same time, quite tame and mellow. Complex notes of mint, clove, cinnamon, licorice root, pine nuts, and dark chocolate, with a surprising dose of gin botanicals throughout. A soft underbelly of caramel, sweet corn, and soothing vanilla provides an interesting counterpoint. Very easy-drinking, too (hard to believe it’s 46%). Intriguing, and a must-try for rye whiskey aficionados — even if only to satisfy your curiosity.

Hailing from the great state of Utah, High West Double Rye is a blend of two different ryes, marrying a 16-year-old whiskey with a 2-year-old one. The result is a beautiful blend with a little spice, and notes of corny sweetness.