Canadian whisky is often colloquially referred to as “rye.” And though historically the grain makeups included rye and flavors included some corresponding spice, those rye percentages were never very high. In fact, they were typically much lower than their American counterparts. And these days, with plenty of American bottles sporting 95% and even 100% rye mashbills, calling Canadian whisky “rye” in general terms doesn’t really hold up. So, enter this new 100% rye expression from Canadian Club that’s not shy about stating percentages.
Canadian Club 100% Rye is… exactly what it sounds like. But in creating the all-rye whiskey, liquid is selected from three different types of barrels–new white American oak barrels, once-used bourbon barrels and Canadian whisky barrels–and then blended to taste. There’s no age statement.
Canadian Club 100% Rye pours a deep gold in the glass. On the nose, you’ll find toasted grains, vanilla, dried fruit, oak and mild spice. It’s medium bodied and oily on the palate with plenty of rye spice, plus caramel, butterscotch, oak, nuts, cloves and cinnamon. It finishes long, with more vanilla and caramel sweetness, plus spice and toasted grains.
This is a flavorful whisky that shows a lot of impact from the boosted percentage of rye grains. Canadian Club 100% Rye is a solid addition to the brand’s portfolio. It’s different enough from the flagship offering to warrant a taste, and it’s economical enough to warrant a bottle.
Stats:
— 40% ABV
— $19.99
CE Rating: ★★★
Like that? Drink this:
— Canadian Club Reserve Whisky Review
— Canadian Club Classic 12 Year Whisky Review
— WhistlePig Straight Rye Whiskey Review
