6 CRAFT WHISKEYS YOU SHOULD BE DRINKING

When you’re not sippin’ big distillery whiskey, craft whiskeys are the road to whiskey town. We have tried quite a few craft products and wanted to share 6 craft whiskeys we’re diggin’ right now.

PATTON ROAD RESERVE

Producer: J. Henry & Sons (Dane, WI)
Style: Bourbon
Age: 5-year
Proof: Cask strength

Why it made the list: Simply put, this is one of the best craft whiskeys we have reviewed. Patton Road Reserve is rich, earthy, brash, and worthy of a spot on any whiskey lovers shelf. Find a bottle and buy it without reservation.

OYO SHERRY-FINISHED BOURBON

Producer: Middle West Spirits (Columbus, OH)
Style: Finished Bourbon
Age: NAS
Proof: 86.5

Why it made the list: I have only been able to sample this whiskey once, but it left long-lasting impression. OYO Sherry-Finished Bourbon opens with big, dark fruit and finishes with subtle, sweet chocolate. This is a must-try for fans of sherry-finishes.

DISTILLERS HIGH PROOF BLEND

Producer: Breckenridge Distillery (Breckenridge, CO)
Style: Bourbon
Age: NAS (approx. 3 years)
Proof: 105

Why it made the list: Breckenridge Bourbon doesn’t get much love in bourbon communities, but this special release is a great expression of a high rye bourbon whiskey. The amplified proof serves up big doses of barrel spice, rich caramel, and maple syrup.

ROUGH RIDER THE BIG STICK

Producer: Long Island Spirits (Baiting Hollow, NY)
Style: Rye
Age: NAS
Proof: 121 (Cask strength)

Why it made the list: It is rare to find a well-made craft rye whiskey (most are too harsh or weak), but The Big Stick is a welcomed exception. Lush with rich baking spices and heavy waves of cinnamon, this is the perfect winter/holiday whiskey.

RANSOM THE EMERALD 1865

Producer: Ransom Spirits (McMinnville, OR)
Style: Straight American Whiskey
Age: 3 years
Proof: 87.4

Why it made the list: Want to know what a 19th century style Irish whiskey tasted like? Grab a bottle of Ransom The Emerald 1865 and find out. This whiskey will give even the most experienced drinker a unique sipping experience.

FLORIDA BLACK RYE  

Producer: Timber Creek Distillery (Crestview, FL)
Style: Single Grain Rye Whiskey
Age: 9+ months
Proof: 93

Why it made the list: We love rye whiskey and black rye was an absolute treat! It packs a punch even at 93 proof with a full body of cherries and citrus with a lingering red fruit finish. This isn’t a bottle you reach for because it tastes like other rye’s, this is the one you reach for when you want something unique. We were fortunate enough to taste the Florida Black Rye at barrel proof a few weeks ago, and wow! If this bottle is ever released at barrel strength, get in line.

What did we miss?

What are your favorite craft whiskeys?

– JE