American

Whiskey Review: Hewn Spirits Red Barn Rye

We review Hewn Spirits Red Barn Rye, made by a distiller who also hosts a reality show about refurbishing old barns (really!).

OVERALL RATING

8
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Tasting Notes

About:

Hewn Spirit’s Red Barn Rye is sold in a 375 ml bottle, and comes in at 80 proof.
Appearance:
In a glass the rye is a pale ale-yellow, with thin slow legs.
Nose:
The Red Barn Rye has a really fascinating and layered nose… there’s hints of cracked black pepper, shoe polish, and ripe olives.
Palate:
Mmm. This is a smooth one. A really lovely, subtle palate – rather surprising for a rye. It’s got a nice, silken texture in the mouth. A buttery taste, without any of the rancid after notes. A bit of green melon, and red grapes. In the finish you get a small taste of that spice one normally expects from a rye, but much more subtle than I’m used to.
Finish:
Comments:
Hewn Spirit’s Red Barn Rye is a testament to the virtues of craft and intention. I find that a good rye needs to walk a fine line between sweet and spicy, and here Hewn Spirits has succeeded with aplomb. Be warned: this isn’t your traditional rye. But in this case, that’s a good thing. The flavor is smooth without becoming boring, and the finish leaves the tongue hungry for another sip. That subtle butteriness really is something special. Share with a friend who’s hesitant on rye, and watch as their reservations disappear. rnrnThe bottle might be small, but, as far as this reviewer is concerned, it is most definitely worth it.

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.

Zack Braunstein

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