The newest expression from 15 Stars out of Kentucky. This is a limited release straight rye whiskey blended from various 14, 13, 9, and 8 year barrels. According to the media release, these barrels are selected from across Indiana, Tennessee, and of course Kentucky. This is a new brand, to me, but not to those embedded in the whiskey scene. 15 Stars gets its name from the Bluegrass State of Kentucky. Kentucky was the 15th state to join the Union of the U.S. Straight Rye is a resurgent type of whiskey. Almost completely forgotten about for decades, careful craftsmanship has brought rye back. Rye is brighter with stronger earth tones when compared to its counterpart Bourbon. It is a delightful style with merits and virtues all its own. It is heartening to see the category really blossom of late.
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.
Charles Steele, a Portland-based attorney, is a native of the Pacific Northwest. His legal background provides him with an analytical approach to understanding whiskey and other aged spirits. Primarily a legal writer, freelancing for The Whiskey Wash offers Charles a unique opportunity to showcase his versatility as a writer. Although his preference lies with whiskey and whiskey-based cocktails, he has a profound appreciation for all unique and unconventional liquors, from Malört to Ojen - if it's peculiar, he's intrigued.
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