Sazerac Straight Rye

This rye seems to have a pretty great reputation internationally, being on the more approachable side of things. Unfortunately it seems kind of hard to find. Luckily I know of at least one bar in Bergen that has it, so I’ll be able to get more if I like it! My first rye that I’ve tasted blind, and I had no idea it was coming. So the result might not be a huge surprise…

Source: Sample from Master of Malt.
Setup: Blind in a trio tasting with Willett Pot Still Reserve & Smooth Ambler Old Scout 7yo.
Drank: Neat, in a Glencairn. Rested 15 minutes.

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Nose: Fresh wood (I actually wrote “IKEA Warehouse” in my notes), rockmelon, black pepper. Nice dusty oak, if a little restrained.
Palate: Smooth. Little spice, no bitterness. Medium mouthfeel.
Finish: Finishes quickly, fruit forward and rummy with some sweet prune notes.
Overall: Enjoyable but simple. Would be a good daily drinker if it’s cheap.
Blind guess: No idea. Something simple and cheap.

Rating (given blind): 4

Thoughts: God, I didn’t pick that this was a rye at all. Not even close. I didn’t find any of the herbal notes or spice that I associate with high rye content. Super surprising! I want a bottle just so that I can get to know it a bit better, unfortunately I just have the dregs of a sample remaining :(. I’m not sure I would pay a whole lot for that bottle though…