Distillery: Stellum Spirits (Barrell Craft Spirits)
Region: USA
Age Statement: No Age Statement (NAS); blend of 4 to 10-year-old barrels
Mash Bill: Primarily 95% rye, 5% malted barley (Indiana), with additional barley-forward rye components from Kentucky and Tennessee
Proof & ABV: Approximately 116.24 Proof (58.12% ABV)
Tasting Notes:
-
Nose: Stewed apples, peaches, and pears dominate the initial nose, along with an undertone of baking spices. Nutmeg and clove provide a counterbalance to the sweet fruits, while a light mint and licorice note bring further depth to the aroma.
-
Palate: Aniseed, cardamom, and coriander wake up your palate with an intense spice punch. Notes of lemon peel and tangerine coming from the rye grain provide a nice citrus component to the overall spiciness. As the whiskey breathes in the glass, fresh green apples and spearmint arise, which offers just enough of a sweet component to engage all your taste buds.
-
Finish: Star anise, white pepper, and mint linger on the palate before fading into a honey-sweetened jasmine green tea.
Production & Aging: Stellum Single Barrel Rye is a cask-strength blend of straight rye whiskeys, primarily sourced from Indiana's 95% rye mash bill, complemented by select barrels from Kentucky and Tennessee. The blend includes whiskeys aged between 4 to 10 years, resulting in a complex and robust flavor profile.
Distinctive Characteristics: The high rye content delivers a pronounced spice character, balanced by the inclusion of barley-forward rye components that add depth and a subtle sweetness. Bottled at cask strength, it offers an intense and full-bodied tasting experience.
Ideal Serving Suggestions: Best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to open up its intricate flavors. Its bold spice and complexity also make it an excellent choice for classic rye-based cocktails like the Manhattan or Sazerac.