Rich oak | Butterscotch | Raspberry | Maple syrup | Seared mint

Apricot | Stewed peach | Vanilla | Rye grain | Tempered rye spice

Dry oak | Orange zest | Cherry | Maple syrup | Light fresh mint | Lingering seasoned oak

A. Smith Bowman Distillery’s latest Special Release is a 11 year old rye which was created to explore how extended aging and higher proof impact the company’s rye flavor, balance, and complexity. Inspired by the distillery’s first Abraham Bowman rye release from 2010, this limited release was aged in one of the company’s coolest warehouses, which slowed the aging and emphasized a smoother, more refined take on its rye whiskey.

Right from the start, the rye’s aroma is top-notch. Rich oak, melted butterscotch, ripe raspberry, sweet maple syrup, and earthy seared mint combine to an amazing effect. The palate layers apricot and stewed peach for an impactful stone-fruit opening. From there, rich vanilla contrasts with rye grain and rye spice. Even though this is proofed to 110, its rye spice is surprisingly gentle. The finish brings a healthy dose of dry oak upfront, with orange zest, cherry, and maple syrup.

Abraham Bowman Special Release #26: Rye Whiskey carries its age well. All of its flavors have good weight and presence. Dry oak can be a bit overpowering in the first few sips and does well to taper off over time. Typical rye boldness is kept to a minimum, and the drink is a bit lower than its 110 proof suggests. Despite this, the sip packs a lot of flavor and nails the overall intensity near-perfectly. Given that this was likely sourced and redistilled Buffalo Trace and aged in Virginia, it's a real treat to sip this excellent 11 year old rye.