A. Overholt pays homage to a historic mashbill (80% Rye; 20% Malted Barley) and seeks to be a balanced American Rye Whiskey
Overholt is one of the longest-standing US whiskey brands in American history, dating back to 1810 when it was founded by Abraham Overholt. Today, Overholt is owned by Beam Suntory and in recent years Beam has putting more emphasis on highlighting the historic brand. In that vein, A. Overholt Monongahela Rye was recently announced by the James B. Beam Distilling Company, though bottles of the new whiskey have been popping up in advance of the announcement. I was lucky enough to grab a bottle at the James B. Beam Homeplace in Clermont after a recent Clermont Supper Club event. If you’ve not experienced the revamped distillery campus in Clermont, it’s a must-visit on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
Just the Facts: A. Overholt Monongahela Mash
- Style: Straight Rye Whiskey
- Mashbill: 80% Rye; 20% Malted Barley
- Proof: 95 (47.4% ABV)
- Age: 4 Years
- Distilled by: James B. Beam Distilling Co. in Clermont, KY
- Price: $39.99
Tasting Notes: A. Overholt Monongahela Mash
- Nose: grape candies, fresh baked cookies, strong malt influences, and anise
- Palate: initially, cardamom and vanilla, followed by mid-palate heat and a light nuttiness similar to roasted almond. The back palate has some lingering brightness with acidity and black tea notes
- Finish: lingering spice, but overall light on palate.
Closing Thoughts:
It’s exciting to see Beam breathing new life into the iconic and historic Overholt brand. For so long, a bottle of Overholt Rye would be shuffled to the back of the minibar or find itself relegated to the “well” at your local bar. However, Overholt is being elevated from the bottom shelf and aims to stand out in a sea of Rye Whiskey. A. Overholt, with its sharp-looking, dark glass bottle and broad shoulders, is worthy of a spot on your bar. Whether in a cocktail or served neat, this Rye is fairly complex and fairly priced. Grab a bottle the next time you’re looking for an interesting bottle of rye whiskey; it is sure to catch a few looks on your bar.
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