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Whiskey Review: Tatoosh Rye

We review Tatoosh Rye, a Washington craft rye whiskey made from local grain on a copper pot still that's bottled at 86 proof.

OVERALL RATING

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Tasting Notes

About:

Appearance:
Nose:
is overall quite faint. Highlights include a certain wood chip/sawdust note, honey, cinnamon, warm hay, and warm berry and plum compote. It was difficult to discern any one overwhelming note at first, however, after opening, the cinnamon and honey duo clearly stood out. On the came back very clearly on the
Palate:
, cardboard, red pepper flake, and honey nut cheerios came through; the sawdust from the nose came back very clearly on the palate. The mouth feel was light, and the dram seemed to lack any defining flavor backbone, making for a rather limp tasting experience. The red pepper flake—the only proof of rye—lingered on the finish, with a touch of milkiness. Conclusion: While Tatoosh’s bourbon is hardly my favorite bourbon, it at least has defining factors that set it apart from other local spirits. Tatoosh bourbon is one I recommend to those looking to try variations on a classic. Tatoosh Rye fell flat in comparison, but especially for a rye. It may, however, be a good introduction to rye for those who are afraid of too much spice and are adamant about experiencing local whiskies. FINAL SCORE: 80/100
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.

Savannah Weinstock

Savannah Weinstock is a graduate of Lewis & Clark College in Portland, Oregon, where her Environmental Studies thesis delved into the intersection of Scotch Whisky, sustainability, and the commodification of nature and culture. During her thesis research, she spent time living and studying in Glasgow, Scotland, visiting and interviewing distilleries across the country, with a particular focus on the Hebridean Isles. Savannah is currently immersed in the industry, gaining firsthand experience with whiskey, spirits, and cocktails on a daily basis.

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