We were pleasantly surprised to receive a sample of Hemingway Whiskey which is being released by Steve Groth and the Call Family. While a limited amount of details were available at the time of my tasting, I was excited to dive in with a new whiskey in my glass. You can find the full press release on BourbonLens.com here.
According to the brand, Hemingway Rye is built on family traditions. Just as Ernest Hemingway lived a life full of timeless tales worth regaling, the same is true for the Call Family. The men who crafted this First Edition Rye have distilling in their blood, along with stories and lessons passed down for more than 230 years.
Whiskey Pioneer & Founder Steve Groth and his two sons came together with 7th-generation Master Distiller Ron Call and his two sons, Clayton and 8th-generation Master Distiller Jacob, to author a new whiskey masterpiece and continue their legacy with Hemingway Whiskey.
Just The Facts:
Proof: 100
Style: A blend of Straight Rye Whiskeys
Mashbill and Age: 94% — 9 year Indiana Straight Rye Whiskey (95/5)
6% — 4 year Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey (95/5)
Distillery: Undisclosed
Finish: rum-seasoned Oloroso Sherry Casks
Scott’s Tasting Notes: Hemingway Rye Whiskey
Nose: Reminiscent of a Canadian Rye, this whiskey has notes of dried raisins and cherries, a slight woody/earthy funkiness I find in Canadian Whisky. Dried clove and smoke emerge from the glass followed by light brown sugar and rye spice.
Palate: Dark spiced rum is immediately present followed by cinnamon raisin toast. The nose is overshadowed by the impressively rich palate.
Finish: Surprisingly warming for a 100 proof and medium in length.
Closing Thoughts:
While the sources of this Kentucky-Indiana rye blend are not disclosed (Editors Note: according to the press release, the Kentucky Rye was distilled by Jacob Call, presumably from his time at Green River Distilling Co.), the distinct whiskies seem to be very well blended. However, this may also explain the difference in the nose and palate I experienced. The rum seasoned Oloroso Sherry cask does bear a distinct influence on the final product as well, especially on the finish. The Call Family Library release of the 1st Edition of Hemingway Rye is a nice introduction to market for Hemingway Whiskey. We look forward to seeing what’s in store for Hemingway Whiskeys and we thank them for the opportunity to taste their new whiskey with no strings attached.
Learn more about Hemingway Whiskey on their website and on social media at @HemingwayWhiskeys.
