Caramel corn | Candy apple | Fresh mint | Cedar

Coffee cake | Green bell pepper | Caramel | Charred oak 

Coffee bean | Barrel char | Seared mint | Mixed spices | Chocolate malt

Mile High Spirits, based in Denver, Colorado, exemplifies a distillery that works hard and continuously improves its products. Many of their whiskeys use a unique blend of grains, elevating them from just another craft whiskey to something much more memorable and distinctive. We’ve tasted their bourbon and wheated bourbon for many years now, but their rye doesn’t quite get the same level of attention as their bourbons. Some of that has to do with the variations of their rye mashbills used. For now, though, their core Bottled in Bond Rye showcases a good amount of character that you don't often see in a 4 year old rye.

Right from the start, caramel corn and candy apple jump forth, scents not always associated with rye. Likewise, the palate starts with coffee cake before turning to green bell pepper and charred oak. The finish is much bolder with a strong coffee bean note combined with charred oak. A seared mint note lingers before ending on a light, but noticeable chocolate malt note that many of Mile High Spirits’ whiskeys feature.

Mile High Spirits ryes feature a lot of uniqueness, and it can be surprising if you’re not expecting it. Despite being quite flavorful for its age, some extra time in the barrel is still needed to help strengthen the rye’s overall sip. For more complexity, look to the company's Triple Rye, which continues to be an intriguing release and isn't afraid to push the boundaries of what American rye should taste like.