Tasting Notes
- Nose: Intense rye spice, cinnamon bark, dark honey, toasted oak, dried orange peel
- Palate: Peppery rye grain, vanilla bean, caramel, clove, leather, charred wood
- Finish: Long and warming with lingering spice, dark chocolate, tobacco leaf
Product Details
| Spirit Type | Straight Rye Whiskey |
|---|---|
| ABV | 59.0% (118 proof) |
| Volume | 750ml |
| Age Statement | 5 Years |
| Release Year | 2022 |
| Distillery | Smooth Ambler Spirits Co. |
| Region | Maxwelton, West Virginia |
| Barrel Type | Single Barrel (No. 37689) |
| Series | Founders' Cask Strength 2022 Limited |
Perfect For
- Serious whiskey collectors: Limited single barrel releases with unique character profiles
- Cask strength enthusiasts: Experiencing whiskey at its full barrel proof intensity
- Special occasions: Celebrating milestones with a distinctive American craft spirit
- Neat sipping sessions: Contemplative tastings that reveal layers of complexity
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Smooth Ambler Single Barrel Founders' Cask Strength taste like?
This cask strength rye whiskey delivers intense spice-forward flavors with notes of cinnamon, pepper, vanilla, and charred oak. At 59% ABV, it's bold and warming with a long, complex finish that showcases the grain's natural character without dilution.
Should I add water to this cask strength whiskey?
Adding a few drops of water can help open up the flavors and reduce the alcohol heat, making the whiskey more approachable. Start with just a few drops and adjust to your preference—some enjoy it neat to experience the full barrel proof intensity.
How does this compare to other Smooth Ambler releases?
The Founders' Cask Strength series represents Smooth Ambler's boldest expressions, bottled directly from single barrels without dilution. This 2022 release offers more intensity and individual character than their standard bottlings, making each bottle unique to its specific barrel.
Is this whiskey worth the investment?
For collectors and cask strength enthusiasts, this limited single barrel release offers exceptional value with its unique barrel character, craft distillery provenance, and the rarity of West Virginia rye whiskey. Each bottle represents a specific moment in time from a single barrel.
What makes West Virginia rye whiskey special?
West Virginia's climate and Smooth Ambler's meticulous barrel selection create rye whiskeys with distinctive character. The state's temperature variations during aging help develop complex flavors, while Smooth Ambler's hands-on approach ensures only exceptional barrels make it to bottle.
You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.