Michter's US*1 Barrel Strength Rye, New American Oak Cask, Cask #25B0434, 2025, 54.3%

This rye brings sweet baking notes and spice together. Butterscotch and cinnamon stand out on the nose, with orange zest adding a citrus edge. The palate carries a similar contrast. Caramel and brown sugar sit beside dry oaky spice and black pepper. Sugared lemon peel is a detail I particularly like, given my preference for citrus. It adds another angle to the sweetness without taking attention away from the spice. The finish is described as warming and medium-length, with apple peel, cinnamon, dry oak spice, and peppercorn. I like the range here. The dry oak in the finish makes it a more deliberate choice for someone seeking a softer, sweeter rye.

Reviewed by honeycombkit

Nose

Butterscotch and cinnamon, Dark cherry, Orange zest

Palate

Caramel and brown sugar, Dry oaky spice and black pepper, Sugared lemon peel

Finish

Medium-length and warming, Apple peel and cinnamon, Dry oak spice and peppercorn