Whisky: LAWS Whiskey House San Luis Valley Straight Rye
Producer: Al Laws
Distillery: LAWS Whiskey House
Whisky Type: Straight Rye Batch 4 (Bonded)
Region: Denver, Colorado, USA
Age: 7 years
ABV: 50%
Cask: New charred American oak
Price Range: $$
LAWS Bonded Rye is a rye whiskey made by LAWS Whiskey House in Denver, Colorado. This expression was the first rye whiskey bottled in Bond (BIB) in Colorado’s history.
The founder, Al Laws is a native of Edmonton, Alberta. He worked in finance for the gas and oil industry and transferred to Colorado, where he learned the art of craft distilling. He also traveled to Kentucky and learned the ropes from Bill Friel, former master distiller at 1792 Barton, until it was time to establish his distillery in Denver, Colorado in 2011.
The mashbill of LAWS Bonded Rye is 95% heirloom rye, 5% heirloom barley, and aged for 7+ years in new charred American oak barrels. As with all BIB whiskies, these must be bottled at a minimum of 50% ABV. Whiskies that make up the final product must be all from one season, aged for at least four years in a government-bonded warehouse.
Heirloom rye is a variety that is less resistant to diseases, more vulnerable to insects, and has lower yields (produces less alcohol) than other types of rye. However, this variety produces intense spicy and fruit notes that are simply delicious.
Tasting Notes of LAWS Whiskey House Bonded Rye
Nose: Intense aromas of cinnamon, smoke, fruits, and plenty of spices. I also noticed a darker hue than other American ryes, probably due to more barrel influence at high altitudes. The color reminds me of Scotch aged in sherry Oloroso casks.
Palate: The arrival is sweet with fruits, followed by an intense flavor of spices (i.e., Pepper, clove, cumin, cinnamon) and a dry and smoky oak flavor. The spices dominate the flavor profile and are amplified by the 50% ABV. Adding a teaspoon of water brings apples and honey to the front and softens but does not drown the flavors.
Finish: Long, spicy and oaky. Very Intense and flavorful.
Conclusion: Although LAWS Bonded Rye combines fruit and spices in one delicious experience, the spices of the rye dominate the scene and can be a little intense for some whiskey enthusiasts. I personally love it.
The 50% ABV delivered so much flavor that I had to take a moment to let my taste buds calibrate and take it all in. The intensity and complexity were the highlights of the experience. LAWS Bonded rye is a 100% full-bodied and well-crafted whiskey.
I can’t imagine a better rye to use in a non-traditional old-fashioned if spices are the backbone of your cocktail. The price point is around $85, which is not cheap for a rye whiskey, but based on the amount of flavor, I am happy I purchased it. Try it neat and unlock the intense rye flavors. Adding water will still be very enjoyable but less memorable.
Not surprisingly, this bonded rye is one of the best rye whiskies I have tried this year. Look for the right moment, sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. Cheers!
Score: 4.25/5 ⭐
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Legend
$50 or less $
$51-$100 $$
$101-$150 $$$
$151 or more $$$$
