Catoctin Creek – Roundstone Rye Whiskey

Catoctin Creek
Roundstone Rye Whiskey
Catoctin Creek Distilling

Proof: 92
ABV: 46%
Style: Rye
State: VA
Price: $

Peggy Noe Stevens – 7.6 

Nose: Butterscotch and sugar cube. Caramel corn with a hint of ginger. Rye is heightened; yet savory tones are established. 

Palate: Nice bite of rye grain. Subtle jets of black pepper and cream corn compliment and reveal.  Drops of water collect the fruit to some banana and dates. 

Finish: Sense of identity with coriander and cayenne.  Has staying power and not a bit shy.

Comment: Quite a hot rye for 92 proof, but if you are patient it calms.

Susan Reigler – 8.0 

Nose: Clean and herbal with plenty of fresh rye grass notes, some orchard fruit and light tannins. It’s all bound together with a sweet vanilla base.

Palate: The vanilla leaps out, followed by the apples and pears. A liberal expression of black pepper and herbs.

Finish: Vanilla and fruit carry through, so the oak tannins, never becomes harsh or bitter.

Comment: Very nicely balanced whiskey. It had a mild character for a rye, but is still a good example of the style.