Balcones Texas Rye
Balcones use several types of rye in the mash for their Texas Rye. These include Elbon rye from the north-west of Texas as well as crystal, chocolate and roasted rye.
Tasting Notes
Nose
Rye opens properly, with lots of chocolate. There is also some salted caramel, malted grain and a tiny hint of smoke on the nose. The chocolate rye is particularly interesting here and makes the whisky seem like a rye beer.
Palate
Chilli chocolate - intensely flavoured and yet light. The Balcones Texas Rye Whisky whets the appetite for more with aromas of rye spice, German grey bread and something malt-like with oak spice and even more dark chocolate. Beautifully balanced, even if still a little youthful in places.
Finish
Chocolate and some leather remain in the medium-long finish.
Thoughts
Marcel 69/100
The Balcones Texas Rye brings plenty of fun with its chocolaty rye spice and breathes fresh life into the glass. Sure, its youth is still evident, but that’s exactly what gives it a lively, almost cheeky personality – definitely a rye that’s enjoyable and piques your curiosity for more.
Sascha 69/100
A well-structured rye with a balanced interplay between chocolaty notes and a spicy rye profile, though clearly marked by its youth. The blend of different rye varieties creates interesting aromas, but it’s still uncertain whether longer maturation might smooth out some of the edges.
Value for Money: Fair
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84/100Frequently Asked Questions
Which rye varieties are used in Balcones Texas Rye and how do they influence the flavor?
Balcones uses several rye varieties, including Elbon rye from Northwest Texas as well as crystal, chocolate, and roasted rye. This combination gives the whisky a complex rye character with chocolaty and spicy aromas reminiscent of rye beer.
Why does Balcones Texas Rye have no age statement (NAS) and does this affect its quality?
Balcones Texas Rye is a no age statement whisky, meaning it contains whiskies of various ages without a fixed minimum maturation period. This allows the producer to blend the best barrels for a balanced flavor profile without compromising quality.
How does the 50% ABV affect the drinking experience of Balcones Texas Rye?
At 50% ABV, Balcones Texas Rye offers an intense aroma and depth of flavor that particularly highlights the spicy and chocolaty notes. The higher alcohol content delivers a powerful yet still balanced character.