Oxford Rye Whisky - Red Red Rye

Oxford Rye Whisky - Red Red Rye, 3 YO, 46.4 %

Image from The Whisky Exchange

This is a product of The Oxford Artisan Distillery.

Batch information: 2017 Harvest #005.

This is what they say on the official product page:

“Red Red Rye’s first maturation was for one year in casks 12 and 13, both American Oak casks which gave the new make our classic house profile. For the second maturation, both casks were blended into cask 72, the Pedro Ximenez, for two years to give it the depth of old sweet wine. For the final maturation cask 72 was split into two Vintage Port barriques, casks 268 & 269, for the final year to brighten the liquid with a fresh port bomb.”

The Oxford Rye Whisky - Red Red Rye is available in Norway at NOK 1400 (14921101).

Nose: Initially the zesty allure of peppery strawberries, setting a lively, spirited stage. The spiciness of rye boldly punctuates the air, adding a rustic, grainy character. Then juicy raisins offer a sweet contrast. Hints of ripe apples linger in the background.

Taste: A full-bodied, robust entrance greets the palate with a peppery, rich demeanor. Followed by wine-like notes , and dark chocolate with a rich, berry jam filling. A sprinkling of pepper maintaining a bold, rhythmic presence.

Finish: A medium-long finish, where the theme of dried fruits and chocolate reprise. A pinch of pepper rekindles the spice theme, leading into a comforting embrace of creamy vanilla and cold-brewed coffee. The finale retains an earthy, rich essence.

Comment: A symphony of spice with a sweet encore!

Score 84/100

Sláinte!
-Thomas