Latest Redemption Rye Created Via Process Influenced By Winemaking

Redemption Whiskey, owned by Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits, has unveiled a new rye whiskey it says “was created utilizing a first-of-its-kind whiskey-making technique inspired by the French sur lie winemaking process and designed to add layers of complexity and roundness.”

The new Redemption Sur Lee Straight Rye Whiskey, according to those behind it, is the latest in the brand’s Specialty Series. It starts with what’s described the the whiskey’s “classic pre-Prohibition rye mash bill,” which boasts a rye content of 95%. From there it goes onto to “adding the flavorful backset that comes off the still during distillation, called the ‘whiskey lees,’ into the barrels before aging. By periodically rotating the barrels during the aging process, the ‘lees’ and whiskey continually interact and naturally infuse the whiskey with even more flavor. The ‘sur lee’ method invigorates the rye’s complexity to further enhance and develop the whiskey.

“Before bottling, Sur Lee is non-chill filtered to maintain optimal flavors and aromas.”

“At the beginning of our creation process, we were curious to see what flavors would be imparted if we applied a technique similar to the French winemaking sur lie process to our amazing classic rye mash bill,” said Tom Steffanci, President of Deutsch Family Wine & Spirits, in a prepared statement. “We spent a lot of time adjusting the approach to get it just right and we are delighted with the delicious outcome. I can’t wait to hear from consumers once they have the opportunity to taste it.”

The bottle design, featuring a silkscreen label and metallic accents, explains Sur Lee’s process, showcasing how the old-world winemaking process was applied to transform the whiskey.

Redemption Sur Lee Straight Rye Whiskey, a very limited release, is available in NY, DE, FL, CA, TX, and MA, from October 1st and while supplies last with a suggested retail price of  around $60 per 750 ml bottle. Official tasting notes are below.

The end result is a whiskey that’s deep and complex with a floral upfront, nutty backdrop and decadent, buttery notes of toasted marshmallow, maple and nutmeg, balanced with a lingering spicy finish.