Caleb’s Crossing Straight Rye Whiskey

As a diehard rye whiskey fan, I was beyond excited to explore Pineau des Charentes’ influence on Indiana 95/5. Fortunately, I had an exceptional canvas to begin with, as eight years in Kelvin cooperage does wonders for rye. After spending a sufficient amount of time in a first-fill white Pineau cask, I moved the whiskey back to used American oak to halt the finishing process and allow for some rest (all the while carefully slow proofing). I’d originally planned to move the rye back to its Kelvin barrel, but after learning of some freshly dumped Tullahoma rye barrels I decided to take a chance. The payoff is a whiskey of significant depth and intensity, with layers of grape-laden sweetness accompanied by a prickly “Pop Rocks” spice. I recommend sipping Caleb’s Crossing Rye neat, but don’t be hesitant to add a few drops of water. You might just be surprised how that turns out. dj

Color: dense rosy copper

Nose: caramel-raisin, maple syrup, wildberry jam, red licorice, chocolate almond

Taste: red grape juice, barrel-aged pomegranate, brown sugar, savory cherry, leather

Finish: long w/ blackberry soda, strawberry fruit leather, tobacco, oak, waves of prickly spice