March's Spirit of the Month - Ry3 blended rum finished Whiskey
Blended in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Ry3 Whiskey is a great example of what a master blender can do. This is a product made of 3 different rye whiskeys, with 3 different mash bills and 3 different age statements. The folks at Phenomenal Spirits blend those whiskeys together and then allow extra aging in used rum barrels, which gives the blend time to come together, but also adds its own unique flavor to the already distinct spirit.
Toasted vanilla creates a creamy rich coating mouthfeel. Notes of red apple bring some fresh fruit characteristics and decedent coco adds to the richness provided by the vanilla. There’s bananas foster like flavor in the spirit, which I would say comes from the rum barrels. Light anise and cola spices help to break up some of the richer flavors this rye whiskey has and helps the flavor profile lean more towards a traditional rye. Malted chocolate on the finish adds to the depth of flavor this whiskey has.