Smokeye Hill Barrel Proof Straight Rye
Price History
Overview
Smokeye Hill Barrel Proof Straight Rye represents the Colorado producer's inaugural foray into rye whiskey, blending a proprietary four-grain mashbill with high-elevation aging to deliver a bold, mature profile distinct from traditional ryes. This release builds on the brand's reputation for innovative blue corn expressions, ensuring consistency through careful blending.
Specs at a glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Style | Straight Rye Whiskey (Barrel Proof) |
| ABV | 65.6% (131.2 proof) |
| Mashbill | Rye, blue corn, yellow corn, malted barley |
| Release Info | Inaugural rye release of fewer than 1,400 cases; MSRP $90 |
| Age | 5 years |
Good to know
Contract distilled in Indiana—likely at Ross & Squibb (formerly MGP)—then barreled and aged in Colorado Springs at 6,100 feet elevation in 30-gallon American oak casks with #2, #3, and #4 char levels. Founder Blake Johns incorporates a percentage of the flagship bourbon for brand consistency, leading to "Straight Rye Whiskey" on labels but "Blended Rye Whiskey" on the website. High-elevation aging accelerates maturity beyond the stated five years.
Tasting notes
- Nose: Distinctive spice and fruit notes emerge from the blue corn influence, with high proof amplifying bold rye character.
- Palate: Bold and mature, showcasing unique spice layered with corn-driven sweetness; the four-grain mashbill provides complexity at 131.2 proof.
- Finish: Lingering spice and fruit depth, enhanced by elevated aging for a refined, sipping-ready close.
Notable details
- Production: Non-chill filtered barrel proof (131.2–131.7 proof); aged in small 30-gallon barrels for intensified flavor.
- Lineage: Follows Smokeye Hill's 2024 blue corn barrel proof bourbon; Colorado-based brand emphasizing blending for signature profiles.
- Comparison: Stands apart from standard ryes due to blue corn and high-altitude maturation.
- Availability: Limited inaugural run positions it as a collector's item.
"Despite unconventional blending and labeling, the Smokeye Hill Barrel Proof Rye offers a bold, mature sipping experience with unique spice and fruit notes." – Drinkhacker Review
A high-proof rye that rewards patient sippers with innovative depth and elevation-driven maturity.
Sources
[1] Drinkhacker – "Review: Smokeye Hill Barrel Proof Rye 5 Years Old"
[2] Thewhiskeywash – "Smokeye Hill Launches First Rye Whiskey with Blue Corn"