Overview: In the world of whiskey, few spirits are as polarizing as rye. Its bold flavors can be overwhelming to some, while its die-hard enthusiasts swear by its complexity and depth. Woody Creek Distillers’ latest release, William H. Macy Reserve Rye Third Edition, is no exception.
The Full Story
Woody Creek Distillers was founded in 2012 by Mary and Pat Scanlan along with Mark Kleckner, and has been making vodka, gin, and whiskey since its early days. The brand’s partnership with actor William H. Macy is a unique one – while he may not be twisting knobs at the distillery, his influence can be seen in every bottle that leaves the warehouse.
The current release of William H. Macy Reserve Rye Third Edition is made from a mashbill of 83% Elbon rye (a winter variety grown locally in Colorado), 14% Dent corn, and three percent malted barley. It’s aged for ten years in new charred oak – a blend of just five barrels, no less.
This is not your average rye whiskey. At 100 proof, it’s bottled-in-bond with the full force of its complex flavor profile intact. Notes of vanilla, licorice, grape jelly, orange zest, oak, menthol, coriander pine and blueberry swirl together on the palate.
Production & Profile
The aging process is a critical component in shaping William H. Macy Reserve Rye’s flavor profile. Ten years of maturation in charred oak barrels imbues the whiskey with a rich, deep color and an overwhelming sense of presence.
Bottled at 100 proof, this rye holds up admirably to neat sipping or chilling down with ice – though we suspect that its true calling is as a key component in craft cocktails. We can already imagine our mixologists whipping it into submission for the next big Manhattan revival.
Brand & Industry History
The name William H. Macy Reserve Rye has been synonymous with high-quality rye whiskey since 2018, when actor and investor William H. Macy joined forces with Woody Creek Distillers to produce this flagship series.
A decade on from its release, the brand continues to refine its recipe while still honoring the legacy of that initial collaboration.
What This Means
The world of rye whiskey is constantly evolving – and few distilleries are as well-positioned to shape this evolution than Woody Creek Distillers. With William H. Macy Reserve Rye Third Edition, they’ve delivered a true game-changer for hardcore fans.
Consumer Takeaway
The real question on everyone’s mind is – can you afford it? The $200 price tag might make this whiskey seem out of reach to some. But we say don’t be afraid: life is too short, and the world needs more rye fans like you.
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