Pikesville Supreme Straight Rye

Tasted in Whisky Magazine Issue 21 by Michael Jackson and Dave Broom.

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Tasting Notes

Michael Jackson Nose Gentlemen's clubs. Leather armchairs. Tobacco. Palate Very smooth indeed. Opulent, but not a great deal of complexity. Luxurious. Cherries in brandy. Candied plums. Vanilla. Finish Sweetish. Delicious. Comment An old classic, originally from Maryland. Emphatically a rye, though in this instance that grain is in fruity mood, rather than being overtly spicy.

Dave Broom Nose Lean and young with medium intensity. Freshly ground cumin seed, green peppercorn, mint, bitter orange, hazelnut, peanut brittle. Touch of the hay-loft. Palate Quite silky and light to start, then the rye kicks in a like a mule. Sherbet, ginger and spice. Finish Medium length, intense, dry with a lovely sour edge. Comment A cracking, edgy drink and alongside the fuller Overholt a real bargain. Great for barmen and beginners alike.