Apricot | Lemon | Nougat | Crème caramel | Caramel apple | Light mint

Honey | Light citrus | Raisin | Touch of leather

White pepper | Rye spice | Gingerbread | Agave

Stoll & Wolfe Distillery is located in Lititz, Pennsylvania, and West Overton Distillery is located in Scottdale, Pennsylvania, approximately 200 miles apart. Both make traditional Pennsylvania-style rye, with the late Dick Stoll of Stoll & Wolfe being the last master distiller at Pennsylvania’s Michter’s Distillery, and West Overton Distillery, based in proximity to the historic Abraham Overholt distillery. Keystone Rye marks a collaboration between the two companies, highlighting the rich history of distilled ryes in the state.

Despite the peculiar choice of only 5% of the blend being West Overton Rye, it does have a noticeable impact on the overall flavor profile compared to Stoll & Wolfe’s standard Pennsylvania Rye. The nose, in particular, features a wide range of scents including apricot, lemon, nougat, crème caramel, caramel apple, and mint. The palate is much simpler, focusing on just honey, citrus, raisin, and leather. The finish is noticeably spicy and peppery but features a welcomed gingerbread note as the spice recedes. 

Age isn’t either of these companies’ strong suits at the moment, but they certainly do their best with what they have. Flavors are generally light and crisp and work well together rather than against each other. Diehard rye lovers will have some fun with this one, but overall, the whiskey needs a bit more time to mature. As is, it's just too light overall and lacks ample heft to its sip.