A fantastic rye whiskey produced in Kentucky, the Pikesville brand dates back to 1895 in Maryland. This 6 year old 110 proof was released in 2015, receiving a Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, an "Extraordinary, Ultimate Recommendation" from the Ultimate Spirits Challenge and was named the World's Best Rye Whisky at the World Whiskies Awards 2016 - Heaven Hill also won Distiller of the Year at the Icons of Whisky 2016!
Some dusty spice, a touch of Norwegian hand cream and cocoa at first with sweet liquorice, Curaçao, vanilla custard and crème caramel developing.
Fruity, then wonderfully spicy rye. Sweet liquorice again (specifically the coconutty/nougat-y pink Liquorice Allsorts that have a black bit in the middle), plenty of oak and then clove drops on the tail.
Vanilla with cinnamon and apricot Danish.
"Norwegian hand cream"? Really? I'll have to take your word for that. All I know is this is a really really good rye whiskey. It's got a very 'now' flavour profile...salted caramel, burnt butter, very aromatic. Has the longest chewy finish I've ever come across. Remember those Texan chew bars you used to get? It reminds me of those. Overall I reckon it's solidly great without being must-have mind blowing. But it's worth the money and well-deservedly up there so grab it if you see it available; it's definitely one to try, you won't be disappointed.
My favourite whisky bar none. Big, bold, buttery, spicy. Yummy.
The first person to review this has given nosing and tasting notes that I largely agree with (though I disagree that there is any amount of bitterness on the finish) so I won't repeat them. If you find this whiskey available, buy it without hesitation, is my advice.
Absolutely delicious. Drinking chocolate with a little spiced apple on the nose, vanilla, plenty more, just can't work it out yet! A real silky mouth coating texture, initially very cool on the tongue, then spices kick in, balanced with no overbearing heat, just right. A long finish which is slightly bitter but still retains that hint of sweetness, agree with the cherry comments I've read. Even nicer on the 2nd, 3rd....mouthful. Will keep a beady eye for a re-stock on this one.
