Hochstadter’s Family Reserve 16 Year Rye, 61.9%
Nose: Lots of pine, dry oak, faint mint, vanilla, surprisingly little ethanol for the proof
Palate: Minty, oaky, wintergreen, viscous mouthfeel, big hit of spice followed by plenty of clove and finally some vanilla sweetness
Finish: More vanilla followed by darker oak, chocolatey, more clove and mint, nice and long
Rating: 94/100 – Incredible | An all time favorite
To date, this is the best rye I have ever tried. It’s an incredibly well executed balance of oak, mint and clove with a wonderfully thick mouthfeel that I don’t usually get from Alberta ryes. Though bottled at 123.8 proof, this pour is perfectly drinkable and the finish keeps going and going. An absolute favorite with only the premium price tag keeping me from stashing away more bottles.
