Templeton offers a definitive note of rye, which should be expected. The spiciness is not strong, however, and is well integrated into the bourbon as a whole. There are light notes of resin, butterscotch and sugared almond along with bright but subtle citrus notes. There is a very nice mature note in the background a hammered resin quality. They are oddly vague about much of the rye itself, saying the grain they use is both from the US, but also imported. From where, we don’t know. Nor do we know the mash bill – it’s been suggested that it’s 95% rye and 5% malted barley, but that cannot be confirmed, and frankly, if it is that close, the rye grain is very muted. It’s not uncommon for distilleries to be so tight lipped about their process, but with a basic rye as this, it hardly seems necessary.
Using charred American oak barrels, the rye rests for four years before release. This is best suited to those exploring rye for the first time. For true rye lovers, you’ve passed this iteration long ago. 90
Reviewed by Michael Cervin
www.templetondistillery.com
Brand – Templeton
Spirit Type – Whiskey
Other Designation – Rye
Country of Origin – USA
ABV – 40%
Bottle Size – 750ml
Price – $35
Score – 90
Date Reviewed – 10/14/2024