Anise | Granny Smith apples | Rye spice | Hint of nail polish | Brandied cherries | Inviting despite unusual scents

Frosted Flakes cereal | Green grapes | Rye spice | Apple pie | Caramel chews | Spicy-sweet mix

Heavy spice transitions to a more delicate wave of spice | Caramel | Candied apples | Medium to long

The Souza family, who is known for D&S Farms in Atwater, California since 1917, added Corbin Cash Distillery to their family legacy when they founded it in 2009.

The whiskey has an unusual 100% rye mashbill, which is difficult to distill and is found in few bottles of whiskey today. The original WhistlePig is top of mind whenever I think of a 100% rye, though few others come to mind. The spiciness of the rye grain does well tempering off-putting flavor notes at a young age, and as age is added over time, depth and complexity ensue. At 5 years old, Corbin Cash Merced Rye has entered the age band where the rye grain spice is still strong and fresh, but complexity has started to layer into the mix as a result of interactions with the walls of the barrels. The overall flavor profile is unique and fresh, with rye spice at the forefront complemented by an array of flavors. At $45, it’s a great price for a unique tasting 100% rye whiskey.