Whisky Review: Root Out Root Beer Flavored Whisky

Editor’s Note: This whisky was provided to us as a review sample by Temperance Distilling. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review.

Named after the hound that guards the gate to the underworld in Greek mythology, this root beer flavored whisky claims to be “all bark, no bite.” It is distributed in four states currently by Dozortsev & Sons Enterprises, who are based in New Jersey. You can find it in a handful of locations in the northeast United States for under $30.

Root Out is a Canadian whisky base and aged for an average of four years, so it is therefor most likely made of a predominantly rye mash bill and aged in oak. Before tasting it, I can tell there is sugar as well because there is some dried stickiness around the cap. The root beer flavor comes from sassafras root and Madagascar vanilla and there is no color added.

Root Out Whisky is produced and bottled in Michigan by Temperance Distilling Company, who specializes in full service development, production and distribution of alcohol products. Sure Shot Spirits LLC, who Root Out is produced for, is a young company based out of Connecticut.

Root Out Root Beer Whisky (image via Cameron Holck/The Whiskey Wash)

Tasting Notes: Root Out Root Beer Whisky

Vital Stats: 70 proof, average 4 year age Canadian whisky, flavored with sassafras root and fresh Madagascar vanilla. 750mL for around $27.

Appearance: Deep yellow.

Nose: Intense root beer and vanilla ice cream. A slight citrus and wood component after the initial nosing.

Palate: Sweet vanilla at first, followed by sassafras bark and that expected root beer flavor. Slightly cloying and bitter aftertaste. A bit of cinnamon spice like red hots.