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Whiskey Review: Hillrock Estate Double Cask Rye Port Finish

The Hillrock Estate Double Cask Rye Port Finish is a distillery only rye whiskey finished in port barrels release we had the chance to review recently.

OVERALL RATING

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Hillrock Double Cask Rye

Tasting Notes

About:

Appearance:
Rich amber with moderate legs.
Nose:
Dried currant and cherry, no doubt imparted by the port barrel finish, are immediately apparent. Warm allspice and nutmeg follow, as well as honey and a hint of smokiness. The nose is sweet overall.
Palate:
In contrast with the sweet nose, this whiskey is quite hot on the palate, heavy with spicy cinnamon and rye. The dark fruit notes from the nose make a showing after a moment, against a mildly oaky backdrop. Finish: Warm, with oak coming through more clearly, along with rye and berries. Some bitterness is present. Pure port remains after a long finish. Overall, this is a satisfyingly complex, well-balanced whiskey, the berry notes from the port barrels smoothing out the heat of the rye, and I give it a score of 90 .
Finish:
Warm, with oak coming through more clearly, along with rye and berries. Some bitterness is present. Pure port remains after a long finish.
Comments:

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Katelyn Best

Katelyn Best, a freelance writer based in Portland, Oregon, is a regular contributor to The Whiskey Wash. She has a particular passion for exploring the unique and unconventional aspects of the whisky world.

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