Pikesville is one of those just barley meeting the requirements to be a straight rye (Mashbill is only 51% Rye). Done in the Maryland style, although produced entirely in Kentucky now. This is the older higher proofed sibling of Rittenhouse.
Paid: $50 for 750ml
Distilled/Owned by: Heaven Hill
Region: Kentucky
55% ABV
Aged For: 6 Years
Mashbill: 51% rye, 37% corn, 12% malted barley
Cask Type: New charred oak, Char #3
Chill Filtered: Yes
Color: Rich Copper
Drank: Neat, in a glencairn
Nose: Fruity, with a nice rye spice. Cinnamon, clove, and baking spices.
Taste: The rye picks up on the palate, with a nice full bodied feel. Cinnamon, clove, tobacco, and leather. Vanilla is in abundance.
Finish: Closely matches the taste, making for a pretty straight forward drink. Good length and warmth with Vanilla, cinnamon, and leather.
Thoughts: Straightforward and delicious. I really enjoy Pikesville, but at $50 it’s something that I want to always have on hand, but feel it’s slightly overpriced. It avoids the dill notes I dislike in many of the MGP.
Score: 88 out of 100
