Starting in 2018 and making their first barrels available in 2020, Nashville Barrel
Company is a relative newcomer. Founded by Mike Hinds and James Davenport in
Nashville, TN it seems that the entire small team has been going hard at it ever since.
This cask strength blend states that it is made of 4-9 year ryes which create a jet-fuel
potent and complex rye. Nashville Barrel states that their rye is always at barrel strength
and this strategy will need to prove itself as on course or just too powerful for many …
time will tell.
Their current, and I believe future selections are blends that utilize barrels of 5-9 Years,
bottled at cask strength, less than 750 bottles (per batch) and of course ever changing
and unique task profiles.
Just the facts:
Proof: 116.8
Style: Rye
Michael’s Tasting Notes
Color: Light Amber
Nose: My nose picked up on this one from 20” inches away. Really. It caught me off-
guard and I thought I could have been at a NHRA event or on the flight deck of an
aircraft carrier. This packs an olfactory gut punch. But, as I got closer I could faintly
smell honeysuckle, cotton candy and some spices to kick it up. It was definitely in the
“Rye Realm”, but maybe from the expensive side of the tracks. I wondered how this rye
had surprised me twice already – interesting. Additionally, as many rye’s on the market
there was a woody and pepper hint as well.
Palate: Don’t drink this near an open flame, cigar or even a pet as they might explode.
The first hit of this is hot and it definitely takes a few sips to calm everything down so
you can appreciate what is really happening – And I did appreciate it. Vanilla, fading
away caramel, dried fruitcake fruits and nuts. Of course, in addition to these flavors that
set it apart, there were also the normal suspects of peppers and other tingly and biting
spice.
Finish: Smoothness that fades away not too quickly in a balanced combination of the
above mentioned flavors.
Closing thoughts: This bottle is worth its price point to a seasoned rye drinker. It is
everything you expect and demand from a quality rye and uniquely positioned to treat
yourself and impress your friends. Note: In fairness, this was too high of proof for my
wife and a few friends (more for me as a result), but I think it is perfect for a “rye person”
and a great present for your drinking buddies.
Cheers,
Michael
