Smokey Hill Barrel Strength Rye Whiskey

Overview
Smokey Hill Barrel Strength Rye Whiskey is a custom-distilled straight rye from Colorado Springs, released as Batch 1 at full barrel proof and unfiltered to preserve its raw intensity. It leverages smaller barrel sizes for accelerated aging, delivering a bold, uncompromised rye character aimed at enthusiasts who favor heavy-hitting expressions.

Specs at a glance

Good to know
Distilled to Smokey Hill's specifications, it matures in a mix of new American white oak barrels—30- and 53-gallon sizes with No. 2, No. 3, and No. 4 chars. The distillery's use of smaller 30-gallon barrels promotes greater wood interaction for faster maturation compared to standard sizes. Non-chill filtered to retain full body and oils.

Tasting notes

• Nose: Softer than expected for its proof, with melty caramel, baking spices, rye clove, pear fruit, pecans, and wet earth.
• Palate: Drying mouthfeel leads into dried figs, cloves, black pepper, sawdust, coffee grounds, blackberries, and walnuts for a robust, layered rye punch.
• Finish: Oily and lingering with oak, alcohol heat, rye spice, and a long, even-tempered hold.

Notable details

• Production: Aged in new American white oak (30- and 53-gallon barrels, No. 2–4 chars); non-chill filtered.
• Lineage: Smokey Hill brand, Colorado Springs origin.
• Availability: Limited Batch 1 release; MSRP $80, available via select retailers.

"A dark, broody rye that's a heavy hitter but a real winner and fun for fans of strong, up-front rye." – The Whiskey Wash

Ideal for rye loyalists chasing unfiltered power in a young, ambitious American straight rye.

Sources

[1] Thewhiskeywash – "Smokey Hill Barrel Strength Rye Whiskey Batch 1 Review"