As a cask strength rye whiskey this is surprisingly smooth and mellow from the start. Warm and inviting notes of caramel, orange zest, browned butter, butterscotch along with spicy rye flavors, cracked black pepper, resin, light sandalwood and a hint of Five Spice are evident. The eight-year aging provides all the sweet and savory flavors from the barrels and takes the edge off the ABV. There is a wonderful harmony with this, filling the palate and expressing both rye and barrel influenced notes without sacrificing either one. There are also light citrus fruit and honeysuckle notes, with subtle clove and crème brulée as well. With a mash bill of 51% rye, 45% corn, and 4% barley, the ratio of rye to corn works very well offing a spicy sweet whiskey. As a side note, this used to be called Lasso, but given a trademark dispute, the name was changed to Larado. 95
A Platinum Award winner at the 2025 San Diego International Wine & Spirits Challenge.
Reviewed by Michael Cervin
Brand – Larado
Spirit Type – Rye Whiskey
Other Designation – Single Barrel
Country of Origin – USA
ABV – 58%
Bottle Size – 750ml
Price – $100
Score – 95
Date Reviewed – 2/3/2025