Whiskey Review: Frey Ranch Straight Rye Whiskey

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was provided to us as a review sample by Frey Ranch Distillery. 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.

I appreciate when a bottle of whiskey comes across my desk that is “Bottled in Bond”. For one, the distiller is choosing a distinct path to excellence by choosing this selective process. They are also very confident that the product they are producing is going to be high enough quality to warrant the time and attention that Bonding entails. Frey Ranch straight Rye Whiskey is a prime example of the above-mentioned qualities. And the result is a rye drinker’s rye.

When a single malt scotch is not available, rye is my go-to beverage. From Bulleit’s smooth everyday drinking quality to Dickel’s accessibility and character, the depth of flavors and gradients of heat are in line with my palate. But when a distiller such as Frey Ranch puts their know how to the test, this is a rye that will appease the pickiest of drinkers. When generations of farmers put their name on something, you know they mean it.

American rye whiskey must by definition be distilled from a mash of at least 51% rye grain. In this case the farmers behind the distilling of Frey Ranch put forth 100% winter rye, from their own land, to build their signature rye. The pride and attention of their farming practices shines forth along with their masterful distilling.

Frey Ranch Straight Rye Whiskey (image via Frey Ranch Distillery)

Tasting Notes: Frey Ranch Straight Rye Whiskey

Vital Stats: mash bill of 100% rye; 100 proof bottled in bond; aged at least four years; prices around $60 per 750 ml bottle.

Nose: The first notes to greet the nose are a bright citrusy orange. This is followed by the earthy grain notes of fresh cut wheat. Once it settles into your senses you should also be able to detect some sweeter notes of molasses, brown sugar, and vanilla to round it out.

Palate: The flavor profile, while reminiscent of the initial scents picked up from my wafting, brought a whole slew of goodness to the table. There is old leather and oak that are accompanied by a pleasant heat that dissipates in a timely manner. As the heat subsides you will start to enjoy the depth of flavors like citrus, plum, and a slightly charred sugar. It is not so much a buttery mouthfeel as it is a masculine earthy experience.

You are treated to a sunset on the farm, looking over the vast, waving fields of grain that will be the future generation of distilled beverages.