Two James Catcher's Rye Whiskey
Price History
Overview
Two James Catcher's Rye Whiskey is a bold American rye from Detroit's first legal distillery since Prohibition, crafted to showcase Michigan's regional terroir through local grains and Great Lakes water. It draws its name from J.D. Salinger's Catcher in the Rye, tying into the city's cultural revitalization.
Specs at a glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Style | Rye Whiskey |
| ABV | 49.4% |
| Mashbill | 100% Michigan rye |
| Release Info | Produced by Two James Spirits as part of their core lineup of regional whiskeys |
| Age | Minimum 2 years |
Good to know
Two James Spirits opened in 2013 amid Detroit's bankruptcy, positioning itself as a symbol of local renewal through art, community investment, and transparent sourcing. The whiskey uses rye from Michigan farms like Wing Farms in Ann Arbor and Ludington, distilled with pure Great Lakes water, and aged in traditional 53-gallon charred new American oak barrels.
Tasting notes
- Nose: Lovely and promising aromas that align with the distillery's innovative local ethos.
- Palate: Harsh and off-putting, with a critical edge that overshadows initial appeal; best avoided neat.
- Finish: Lingering intensity suited more to mixing than sipping.
Notable details
- Production: 100% local rye distillation, minimum two-year aging in new charred oak, non-chill filtered at 98.8 proof.
- Lineage: From Two James Spirits, Detroit's pioneering craft distillery offering tours and tastings.
- Availability: MSRP around $60, part of a nine-release portfolio emphasizing Michigan ingredients.
Serving suggestions
Viable in cocktails where its rye character shines without the neat-drinking harshness.
"Despite a lovely nose and positive company ethos, the whiskey's off-putting taste makes it unsuitable for straight drinking but viable in cocktails." – The Whiskey Wash
Closing
A terroir-driven rye that prioritizes local storytelling over solo enjoyment, ideal for Detroit-inspired mixes.
Sources
[1] Thewhiskeywash – "Two James Catcher's Rye Whiskey Review: Tasting Notes & Analysis"
[2] Thewhiskeywash – "Two James Catcher's Rye Whiskey Review: Tasting Notes & Analysis"
[3] Thewhiskeywash – "Two James Catcher's Rye Whiskey Review: Tasting Notes and Analysis"
[4] Thewhiskeywash – "Two James Catcher's Rye Whiskey Review: Tasting Notes and Analysis"
[5] Whiskeyreviewer – "Two James Catcher’s Rye Whiskey Review – The Whiskey Reviewer"