FEW Straight Rye Whiskey Review

FEW Spirits, based in Evanston, Illinois, has established itself as a distillery that blends tradition with innovation. Among its celebrated offerings, FEW Straight Rye Whiskey stands out as a testament to the distillery’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Launched in 2011, FEW Spirits quickly gained recognition for its unique approach to whiskey-making, and its Straight Rye Whiskey is no exception.

Aged in new American oak barrels, FEW Straight Rye Whiskey showcases a harmonious balance of flavors, including rich caramel, vanilla, and a peppery spice that lingers on the palate. The distillation process, combined with the influence of the Midwest climate, imparts a depth and richness that is both intriguing and satisfying.

This review will delve into the nuances of FEW Straight Rye Whiskey, exploring its nose, palate, and finish. Whether you’re a seasoned rye fan or new to the world of rye whiskey, join us as we uncover what makes FEW Straight Rye Whiskey a modern classic in the making.

Distillery: Where Is It Made?

FEW Straight Rye Whiskey is crafted at the FEW Spirits distillery in Evanston, Illinois. This location is historically significant, as Evanston was once a stronghold of the temperance movement. The distillery uses traditional copper pot stills and local ingredients to produce its rye whiskey.

The unique combination of local grains and meticulous craftsmanship results in a whiskey embodying its origin’s spirit. Each batch is carefully monitored to ensure quality and consistency, making FEW Straight Rye Whiskey a true representation of its birthplace.

Distillation & Aging: How Is It Produced?

FEW Straight Rye Whiskey is produced using traditional copper pot stills, which help to create a rich and complex flavor profile. The distillation process begins with a carefully crafted mash bill, primarily composed of rye grain, which is fermented and then distilled. After distillation, the whiskey is aged in charred oak barrels, which impart deep caramel and vanilla notes.

This meticulous aging process enhances the whiskey’s depth and character, ensuring each FEW Straight Rye Whiskey bottle delivers a consistent and high-quality experience.

Nose: What Does It Smell Like?

FEW Straight Rye Whiskey offers a captivating aroma that immediately engages the senses. The nose is rich with caramel and vanilla notes, complemented by a distinct spice characteristic of rye. Subtle hints of fruit and wood add complexity, making the aroma inviting and intriguing.

This well-balanced blend of scents sets the stage for the whiskey’s robust flavor profile and enhances the overall tasting experience.

Palate: What Does It Taste Like?

FEW Straight Rye Whiskey delivers a bold, complex flavor profile that delights the palate. The taste is marked by a prominent rye spice, which provides a lively kick. This is balanced by rich notes of caramel and vanilla derived from its aging in charred oak barrels.

Hints of citrus and oak add depth and sophistication, creating a well-rounded and memorable tasting experience. Each sip reveals layers of flavor, making it a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts who appreciate a robust and intricate palate.

Finish: What Is The Aftertaste Like?

FEW Straight Rye Whiskey offers a long, satisfying finish that leaves a lasting impression. The aftertaste is characterized by a lingering spice that gradually mellows into subtle sweetness. Notes of oak and vanilla persist, adding a warm and smooth conclusion to each sip.

This balanced and enduring finish enhances the drinking experience, making FEW Straight Rye Whiskey a memorable choice for those who appreciate a complex and refined aftertaste.

My Personal Thoughts

FEW Straight Rye Whiskey stands out for its bold flavors and meticulous craftsmanship. It’s surely a standout American liquor. The rich aroma, complex palate, and satisfying finish make it a compelling choice for whiskey enthusiasts. Its versatility allows it to be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, catering to various preferences.

The historical significance of its distillery in Evanston, Illinois, adds an extra layer of intrigue. Overall, FEW Straight Rye Whiskey offers a well-rounded and memorable experience, deserving of its place in any whiskey collection.

Who Would I Recommend it To?

If you appreciate a bold and complex flavor profile, I definitely recommend this liquor. Whiskey enthusiasts will enjoy its rich aroma, intricate palate, and satisfying finish. It’s also a great choice for people wanting to elevate their cocktails with a high-quality rye whiskey.

Additionally, its historical roots in Evanston, Illinois, make it a fascinating option for those interested in the cultural significance of spirits. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, FEW Straight Rye Whiskey offers a memorable and versatile experience.

Awards: What Is It Famous For?

FEW Straight Rye Whiskey has garnered significant recognition in the whiskey industry, earning various awards for its exceptional quality. Its meticulous production process and distinctive flavor profile have led to accolades at numerous prestigious competitions. These awards highlight its craftsmanship and solidify its reputation as a top-tier rye whiskey.

The recognition affirms its status among enthusiasts and attracts new consumers looking to explore award-winning spirits.

Price: How Much Does It Cost?

FEW Straight Rye Whiskey is priced in the mid- to high-end range, reflecting its premium quality and craftsmanship. The cost can vary depending on the region and retailer, but it generally aligns with other top-tier rye whiskeys. This price point makes it an attractive option for those seeking a high-quality, award-winning spirit that offers excellent value for its complexity and flavor profile.

Whether purchasing it for personal enjoyment or as a gift, FEW Straight Rye Whiskey represents a worthwhile investment.

Alcohol Content: What’s The ABV?

FEW Straight Rye Whiskey boasts an alcohol by volume (ABV) of approximately 46.5%. This higher proof contributes to its bold and robust flavor profile, allowing the intricate notes of spice, caramel, and vanilla to shine through. The elevated ABV ensures a full-bodied experience, making it a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts who appreciate a stronger, more intense spirit.

This level of alcohol content also enhances its versatility, making it suitable for enjoying neat, on the rocks, or in various cocktails.

The Best Ways To Enjoy FEW Straight Rye Whiskey

FEW Straight Rye Whiskey can be enjoyed in various ways, each highlighting different aspects of its complex flavor profile. For a pure experience, savor it neat to fully appreciate its rich aroma and intricate palate. Adding a bit of ice can mellow the spice and bring out sweeter notes of caramel and vanilla.

It’s also an excellent choice for cocktails, where its bold character can elevate classic recipes like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan.

Neat

Enjoying FEW Straight Rye Whiskey neat lets you fully appreciate its rich aroma and complex flavor profile. Sipping it straight highlights the bold rye spice and intricate notes of caramel and vanilla, offering a pure and unaltered experience. This method is ideal for those who want to savor the whiskey’s depth and craftsmanship.

With Ice

Adding a bit of ice to FEW Straight Rye Whiskey can mellow its spice and bring out sweeter notes. As the ice melts, it slightly dilutes the whiskey, softening its boldness and revealing layers of caramel and vanilla. This approach is perfect for those who prefer a smoother, more relaxed drinking experience.

In Cocktails

FEW Straight Rye Whiskey is an excellent choice for cocktails, where its bold character can elevate classic recipes. Its robust flavor profile shines in drinks like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan, adding complexity and depth. The whiskey’s spice and sweetness blend seamlessly with other ingredients, creating a balanced and sophisticated cocktail.

With Food Pairings

Pairing FEW Straight Rye Whiskey with food can enhance the tasting experience, as its bold and spicy character complements a variety of dishes. Consider pairing this rye whiskey with rich, flavorful foods such as grilled steaks or barbecued ribs. The whiskey’s peppery spice and caramel notes balance the savory and smoky flavors of the meat, creating a harmonious blend.

Additionally, FEW Straight Rye Whiskey pairs well with aged cheeses like Gouda or sharp cheddar, where the creamy texture and strong cheese flavors are beautifully offset by the whiskey’s robust profile. For a dessert pairing, dark chocolate with a high cocoa content complements the rye’s spiciness and adds a touch of sweetness to the finish.

FEW Straight Rye Whiskey vs. Johnnie Walker Blue Label

FEW Straight Rye Whiskey is a bold and spicy American rye whisky known for its robust flavor profile. Made from a high rye mash bill, it offers intense notes of cinnamon, clove, and black pepper, balanced with hints of caramel, citrus, and oak. The small-batch production and craft distillation process contribute to its distinctive character and depth. With a slightly grainy texture and a long, spicy finish, FEW Straight Rye appeals to those who enjoy a complex and assertive rye whiskey that showcases American rye grain’s rich and diverse flavors.

Johnnie Walker Blue Label, in contrast, is a luxury blended Scotch whisky renowned for its exceptional smoothness and complexity. It is crafted from some of the rarest and most exquisite whiskies in the Johnnie Walker reserves, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors. Blue Label offers a rich and velvety palate with notes of honey, dried fruits, vanilla, and a whisper of smoke. Its silky texture and a balanced, long finish with subtle smoky undertones make it a favorite among those who seek a refined and sophisticated whisky experience. The meticulous blending process ensures that each bottle of Blue Label maintains the high standards and consistency that Johnnie Walker is known for.

FEW Straight Rye Whiskey and Johnnie Walker Blue Label provide two distinct and luxurious whisky experiences. FEW Straight Rye is celebrated for its bold, spicy character and rich American rye flavors, appealing to those who appreciate robust and intricate rye whisky. Johnnie Walker Blue Label, on the other hand, is revered for its smooth, complex, and meticulously blended profile, offering a refined and elegant tasting experience. Each whisky reflects its unique production and origin qualities, providing diverse and high-quality options for whisky enthusiasts.