Editor’s Note: This whiskey was provided to us as a review sample by Four Gate. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review. It should also be noted that by clicking the buy link towards the bottom of this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.
When I think blended whiskey, I envision careful crafting and incorporation of specific flavors. I imagine a well-rounded and smooth sipper crafted for easy drinking. When it comes to Four Gate Whiskey Company’s Straight Rey Whiskey, Batch 7, I had to suspend my preconceptions and brace for a complex, and spicy beverage that is not for the faint at heart.
In regards to blending, batch number 7 is Four Gate Whiskey Company’s first attempt at a rye. They blend selected barrels of 7 year old MGP rye whiskey, without finishing them in other barrel types as has been a theme in some of their previous releases.
This expression sports a mash bill that’s 95% rye and 5% malted barley, with the final product being bottled at 113.2 proof.
Tasting Notes: Four Gate Batch #7 “River Kelvin Rye”
Vital Stats: This whiskey costs $174.99 per bottle and is bottled at full barrel proof of 113.2. It is blended from 7-year-old barrels of 95/5 Indiana Straight Rye Whiskey and is not barrel finished itself.
Appearance: The red amber color has a nice viscous appearance on the side of glass when swirled gently.
Nose: There is a prominent citrus note on the front of the nose. Upon further inspection, I caught red apple, brown sugar, and a sharp spice note.
Palate: The buttery mouthfeel compensates slightly for the prickly heat that bites and lingers longer then I prefer. Once you get past the heat, there are notes of red apple and citrus fruit, echoing the nose. On the back of the flavor there is an herbaceous flavor that pops out. It is a bit like black licorice but with a less medicinal quality. There is also an overall note of butterscotch that joins the party as you continue to drink. Other flavors that peak through the heat are cinnamon, and a malty flavor that adds some weight to the taste.
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Over ice this rye doesn’t lose any of its spicy character, but the heat does subside a bit and it rounds out to a more comfortable sipper.
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