Alberta Premium Cask Strength Rye Whisky (63.7%)

This whisky received considerable attention a few years ago when a certain spirits writer dubbed it his World Whisky of the Year, making many Canadian whisky drinkers take note for the first time of Alberta Distillers. In truth, the Beam Suntory-owned distillery deserves the recognition, as it has for years, generations, really, been turning out excellent, 100% rye grain whiskies to very little recognition or acclaim. 

Light to medium gold colour, this has a firm and oily aroma when nosed undiluted, with plenty of oak, some citrus oil and brown spice notes, and a touch of chili pepper. On the palate, it is a bit cocoa-ish up front, blending traces of milk and dark chocolate, before toasted wood and ample vanilla appear on the mid-palate, leading to a warming but not sharp finish with charred oak, a fruity perfume, and peppery spice. After a few drops of water are added, more profound fruity notes emerge, with apple and tangerine appearing in a rounder, fuller body, and the finish becomes less peppery and more fruity-spicy. Very impressive and well worth sipping at its bottle strength.

94 ($77 - $86)