Barrell Seagrass Rye Whisky Review

By Michael Cervin

Rating: A

In 2013, Barrell Craft Spirits launched in Louisville, Kentucky, and it was somewhat unconventional in American spirits circles at the time. Instead of building their own distillery, the decision was made to blend what they felt were “exceptional” casks from established producers, then bottle those whiskeys at cask strength. To that point, there are no specific and regular mash bills, though we do know this particular release is a blend of American and Canadian rye whiskeys, finished separately in Martinique Rhum Agricole casks, apricot brandy casks, and Madeira barrels.

The Whiskey

Color: Golden hues – similar to a deep hued Cognac or brandy with a glistening amber-orange color.

Nose: Vanilla, mandarin orange, citrus zest, honeysuckle. The nose is, overall, mild, but enticing, reminiscent of a Speyside single malt Scotch.

Palate: Subtle at first, Seagrass then races through you with an exuberant finish, like it’s on steroids. Lively vanilla, citrus notes, sugared almond, clove, cinnamon with a back note cocoa dust. This is more heavily citrus dominate than oak and wood, and parallels some single malt Scotch’s in that way. It’s perhaps odd to call this dram “animated,” but it certainly does have an energy and robustness to it. The oily texture helps to slow down the flavors as they pass through the entire palate. If you prefer a darker, caramel and toast whiskey, this is not necessarily for you. It is however an excellent rye, comprehensive, feisty and very satisfying with an undeniable bright fresh quality to it.

The Price
$80