Rough Rider Three Barrel Rye begins its maturation in new American oak barrels, then moves to ex-bourbon casks. The final maturation occurs in barrels that previously held the distillery’s Pine Barrens Single Malt Whisky. The mashbill consists of 93% Long Island winter rye and 7% malted barley. It is non-chill filtered and has a 45% ABV.
The ex-bourbon lends a subtle smoke and leather quality. The single malt cask adds white flower and pear notes. Everything comes together to create a very unique tasting whiskey.
This rye is easy to enjoy. It’s simple — which is expected of a whiskey of its age — but doesn’t have the harsh qualities sometimes found in other young spirits. And there’s just a little something more lurking beneath the surface, in a very pleasing way.
