Whiskey Review: Michter’s Barrel Strength Straight Rye

Quite hot and heavily woody, especially on the finish. I still get vanilla and black cherry, but oak definitely predominates. After adding a few drops of water, I notice a pleasant toast note I couldn’t taste at all before, and the baking spice and dark fruit notes are clearer. Conclusion: Overall, Michter’s Barrel Strength Straight Rye Whiskey is a nice whiskey, but as is often the case, I was left scratching my head about the logic of leaving it at barrel strength. This may be down to personal preference, and it may also have to do with the fact that my bottle seems to be at the high end of the ABV scale for this expression, but I found that a little water substantially improved it. Sipped neat, I found it too hot, with woodiness too dominant. Cut down just a little, the palate opened up well, and the mouthfeel went from nearly painful to pleasantly sticky. FINAL SCORE: 87/100