Lot No. 40 Rye Whisky
While the whisky world looks spellbound to Scotland and Kentucky, something special is brewing in the far north of Canada. Lot No. 40 Rye Whisky from Corby Spirit and Wine Ltd. is not just another rye – it is a statement.
Tasting Notes
Nose
First, there is a surprisingly fruity note of fresh apple juice, which blends with the characteristic rye spice. It is like walking through an autumn garden while a baker's oven sizzles next door. The oak makes its presence felt confidently – a lot of oak, in fact, which gives the whole thing structure and depth. Then comes the sweet seduction: caramel creeps in, creamy and inviting. But Lot No. 40 has a few more tricks up its sleeve: cooling menthol provides freshness and awakens the senses, while bread-like notes are reminiscent of freshly baked rye bread. The caraway at the end is not intrusive, but rather like a knowing wink – yes, rye is definitely at work here. This nose is a promise that you definitely want to redeem on the palate.
Palate
The first thing you notice is a pleasant dryness that prepares your mouth for what is to come. Then honey unfolds on the tongue, sweet but not sticky, accompanied by a subtle melon note that provides a refreshing fruitiness. The menthol and herbal notes from the nose return, this time with a slightly cooling effect that adds an invigorating dimension to the whole. It is this balance between sweet and spicy, between soft and structured, that makes Lot No. 40 so drinkable.
Finish
The finish is medium-long and warming – exactly what you would expect from a good rye. The spiciness that has been present throughout the tasting comes to the fore once again here, leaving a pleasant tingling sensation. Caramel and brown sugar give the finish a sweet note that prevents it from becoming too dry.
Thoughts
Marcel 72/100
The Lot No. 40 Rye is a charming entry-level experience into the world of Canadian rye, offering mild spice and sweet caramel notes that are simply enjoyable. For anyone looking for an uncomplicated yet characterful whisky that doesn’t irritate with aggressive sharpness, it’s just right – though it does sometimes lack real depth and complexity.
Sascha 70/100
With a balanced structure and a clear rye character, the Lot No. 40 delivers a solid harmony between sweetness and spice, complemented by a pleasant oak maturation. Despite its good craftsmanship, it feels somewhat limited in terms of complexity and aging, making it more of an accessible everyday whisky than a complex premium rye.
Value for Money: Good
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83/100Frequently Asked Questions
What distinguishes Lot No. 40 Rye Whisky from other Canadian rye whiskies?
Lot No. 40 Rye Whisky stands out for its intense rye spiciness combined with fruity apple notes and a pronounced oak character. The balance between sweet elements like caramel and honey, alongside cooling menthol and herbal notes, makes it particularly complex and versatile.
How should Lot No. 40 Rye Whisky be best enjoyed to fully experience its aromas?
The whisky reveals its aromas best at room temperature, neat or with a small splash of water to highlight the complex notes of rye, menthol, and caramel. It also works well in classic rye cocktails, where its spice and fruitiness can shine.
Why does Lot No. 40 Rye Whisky have no age statement?
Lot No. 40 is a so-called NAS (No Age Statement) whisky, meaning no minimum aging period is indicated on the label. This allows the producer to blend different vintages and casks to ensure a consistent flavor and balanced quality.