On tasting: Belgrove Rye Whisky, Heartwood ‘Heartgrove#1’, Archie Rose Rye Malt Whisky and Tiger Snake Rye of the Tiger.
Next to the dozens of single malts that dominate the Australian whisky family, Rye whisky is the alternative, mysterious cousin. But the dedicated Australian distillers making quality rye certainly feel there’s a place at the table for this historic and storied style.
Consider Australia’s insatiable thirst for Bourbon and the recent surge in interest in American rye whiskey, and it’s easy to see why a number of local distillers have developed their own iterations. Whether it’s The Gospel Distillers pushing the boundaries with their young Solera Rye spirit, the recently released Buckley’s Rye Whiskey – an American-made, Australian-branded rye, hmm… – through to the eagerly anticipated Backwoods rye whisky due out early 2020, the train’s moving and there’s plenty jumping on board.
I thoroughly recommend tasting Australia’s top rye whiskies next to each other like this. There are certainly differences in profile between them, particularly due to the various mash bills and maturation techniques at play. And then you’re constantly thinking about comparisons to the spicy, dill pickle, nutmeg, Big Red American style we’ve all come to love.
How does Aussie rye stack up? Do we see some Australian hallmarks emerging? Let’s take a look.