Whiskey Review/Tasting: Koval Rye

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Illinois, Chicago, USA.
Type: Rye Whiskey.
Distillation and Maturation Process: Distilled from 100% rye, stored in fresh charred oak casks produced in Minnesota with a capacity of around 30 gallons.
Age Statement: No specific age statement, but it is suggested to be over three years.
Color and Clarity: Uncolored, not chill-filtered.
Bottle Design: The bottle includes a back label with a barrel number, indicating single barrel production. The review mentions two different barrel numbers for the standard and miniature bottles.

Balance of Flavors: A complex and interesting combination of wood flavors, vanilla, caramel, juniper, spices, herbs, with a sweet undertone reminiscent of walking through the woods.
Unique Characteristics: The whiskey starts with a surprisingly sweet note for a 100% rye, developing into a profile rich with pine, woodiness, spiciness, bready and grain flavors, and a refreshing minty, peppermint note.
Comparison: Not directly compared to other whiskies, but its 100% rye mash bill and the resulting flavor profile make it stand out.

Distillery Background: The Koval Distillery in Illinois, Chicago, is highlighted, with references to other Koval products like the oat and millet whiskies. A distillery tour video is mentioned for those interested in the production background.
Production Details: The whiskey's mash bill is 100% rye, sourced from organic farmers in the American Midwest, emphasizing the distillery's commitment to quality and regional sourcing.

Midwest Sourcing: The rye used in the whiskey is sourced from organic farmers in the American Midwest, underlining the whiskey's American roots and the importance of local sourcing in its production.

"It's a very interesting mixture," and "the spices and the sweetness interaction is pretty interesting," highlighting the unique flavor profile of the Koval Rye.
A critique mentioned is the whiskey's relatively short finish, with the flavors not lingering long after tasting.

Koval Rye is a unique American rye whiskey from Illinois, Chicago, distilled from 100% rye and matured in fresh charred oak casks.
It features a complex flavor profile with sweet, spicy, and woody notes, offering a surprising sweetness for a rye whiskey.
The whiskey is produced by the Koval Distillery, with a focus on quality and local sourcing from the American Midwest.
While praised for its interesting flavor combination, a critique is its relatively short finish.
The whiskey is recommended for those interested in a distinctive rye whiskey experience, with a suggestion to purchase if the price is right.

Rye Whiskey Enthusiasts: Individuals who appreciate the robust and spicy characteristics typical of rye whiskey will find the Koval Rye's unique sweet and spicy balance intriguing.
Whiskey Explorers: Those looking to explore different whiskey types and enjoy discovering unique flavor profiles.
Organic Produce Supporters: Consumers who value organic farming practices and regional sourcing might appreciate the backstory of the Koval Rye's ingredients.
Collectors: The mention of single barrel production and specific barrel numbers may appeal to collectors interested in unique or limited whiskey expressions.