Betz Rye Single Cask 2017/2022 50
If you're looking for a German whisky that will win you over with its complexity and finesse, then steer clear of the Betz Rye Single Cask 50. This 4-years whisky from the Betz Distillery is a prime example of how to produce a whisky that simply disappoints. At 48.00% ABV, it promises strength, but what it delivers is a series of bad decisions.
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Buy on AmazonTasting Notes
Nose
The first impression is a slap in the face. Instead of a harmonious bouquet, you are met with a spirit-heavy attack that is more reminiscent of cheap booze than a carefully matured whisky. Hidden somewhere in between are notes of raspberry, aniseed and - yes, you read that right - Fisherman's Friend cherry. Who came up with that, please? It doesn't smell like a handcrafted whisky, it smells like a failed experiment in chemistry class.
Palate
The next disaster reveals itself on the tongue. The whisky tastes sweet, but not in a good way. It is a dull, cereal sweetness accompanied by a faint citrus flavour. But instead of coming across as fresh and lively, the flavour remains flat and uninspired. Where is the depth? Where is the complexity? Instead, you get a flavour that is as exciting as a dry bread roll.
Finish
The finish is so short that one is almost grateful - if it wasn't so sharp and woody. The oak dominates here in the worst possible way, accompanied by a sharp afterburn that is more reminiscent of cheap grain than a single cask whisky. There is no long, pleasant finish, just an abrupt end that leaves you perplexed.
Thoughts
Marcel 50/100 - (Average)
If you're looking for a whisky that's fun and full of character, you should definitely keep looking rather than choosing the Betz Rye Single Cask 50. Instead of enjoyment, it delivers more of a hangover vibe with a spirit-heavy aroma and a finish that brings no pleasure – better pick another dram!
Sascha 53/100 - (Average)
From a technical standpoint, the Betz Rye Single Cask 50 lacks the necessary balance and complexity to truly impress. The uneven aroma profile and the sharp, woody finish make the whisky feel underdeveloped and argue against recommending it.
Value for Money: 3/5 (Fair)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the Betz Rye Single Cask 2017/2022 taste so strongly of spirits and chemical notes?
The intense spirit smell and unusual notes like cherry Fisherman’s Friend suggest insufficient maturation and possibly unwanted reaction products. This can be caused by a too short aging period of only 4 years and a lack of quality control during production.
How does the short maturation period of 4 years affect the taste of this whisky?
With only 4 years of maturation, the whisky lacks the necessary time to absorb complex flavors from the cask and develop harmoniously. The result is a flat, unbalanced taste dominated by oak and a sharp, burning finish.
Is the Betz Rye Single Cask 2017/2022 suitable for beginners despite its high alcohol content of 48%?
Due to its strong spirit character, flat aromatic profile, and sharp finish, this whisky is not recommended for beginners. The combination of 48% ABV and lack of flavor balance can be overwhelming and unpleasant.