Editor’s Note: This whiskey was provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. 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 in this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.
Redemption Whiskey historically has been known as a non-distilling producer (NDP). In essence, they do not distill their own product. Or, they don’t produce enough on their own to fully supply the market with their distillate. Usually that means they source their whiskey. “Sourcing” is a term I’m sure many of you readers have familiar with.
One of the largest producers, especially of rye whiskey, is MGP. Redemption has rarely shied away from the fact they source their whiskey from MGP. I believe there is a great deal of integrity in honesty. No shame in having a master blender instead of master distiller, especially if what you’re blending is something people are buying.
Redemption Rye whiskey describes itself as Prohibition rye. “Rye whiskey was America’s #1 spirit. Nearly lost for 100 years, Redemption is bringing back bold, spicy, ‘rye-forward’ whiskey.” The whiskey is a blended whiskey of unknown aging. The mash bill is 95% rye and 5% malted barley.
Rye has made a strong resurgence in the United States whiskey scene. I can’t tell if this is a tail wagging the dog situation or not. I enjoy rye whiskey; I believe they can have a complex and spicy nature not found in other grains. When they’re crafted carefully the whiskey is soft, while retaining a voluminous amount of flavor. This is their flagship whiskey, and I’m curious to learn how this NDP is influencing the rye whiskey landscape. With that, we turn to the glass.
Tasting Notes: Redemption Rye
Vital Stats: No age statement. 95% Rye, 5% Malted Barley. SRP $30.00. 46% ABV.
Appearance: light straw
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Nose: The nose is faint but pleasant. I am greeted with soft notes of grain and rye spice, with hints of orange or lemon citrus. There is a touch of mint at the very back end. The nose is mild and enjoyable, it doesn’t envelop the room or really permeate much outside the glass.
Taste: Toasted pecans with red apples. It is sweet with a little punchiness to get you to take notice. There is a hint of sweet pie crust along with young leather and oak. It is sweet and brief, much like the nose. There is a decent punch after the whiskey opens up, but overall maintains approachability. The finish is watery and equally disappears across the palate.
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