Today, we are reviewing 15 STARS First West Rye Whiskey. This whiskey was released in the spring of 2023 and you can find the full press release in our archive. Let’s get right into it!
About the Whiskey:
- Proof: 105
- Age: A blend of 6, 7, & 8 Year barrels (6 Year Aged Stated)
- Style: Blend of Straight Rye Whiskey
- Distilled in Kentucky, Indiana, and Tennessee
- Suggested MSRP: $89.00
Scott’s Tasting Notes: First West Rye Whiskey
- Nose: Toasted bread, lemon, orange, and clove.
- Palate: A pop of grape, orange oil, woodiness, and macha/green tea.
- Finish: The finish is short and dry, but warming in the chest. The viscosity is not thin, but the citrus notes on the palate fade rather quickly.
Closing Thoughts
This is a well-aged rye whiskey that avoids a lot of the “green grass” notes of rye that I tend to stay away from. It has a nice citrus burst on the nose and palate and benefits from a little time opening up in the glass. As with other 15 STARS releases, this is a unique blend of whiskey and the price point on this 6 year, aged-stated rye is attractive to those seeking out unique rye whiskey.
Listen to Bourbon Lens on your favorite podcast app or stream on Spotify. If you’d like to support Bourbon Lens, subscribe to our Patreon, sign up for our “Weekly Pour” Newsletter, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
If you like cocktails, subscribe to our second podcast, Cocktails with Friends. Cocktails with Friends is hosted by our good friend and partner, Bob Cutler.
Recent Bourbon Lens Coverage
- Loch Lomond Crowned Scotch Whisky Producer of the Year at the 2024 IWSC
- Redwood Empire Whiskey Announced New Haystack Needle Single Barrel Program
- Pendleton 1910 Bourbon: New Whiskey, A Decade in the Making
- Southern Distilling Company Limited Edition Southern Star Bourbon Finished in Honey Barrels
- Laws Whiskey House Introduces Two New Limited Edition Finished Whiskeys
- Michter’s Announces Release of its Rare 20 Year Kentucky Bourbon After Hiatus
