Seismic Rye
Overall Score: 6.5/10
Overall Value: 2.75/5
Distillery: Company Distilling
Classification: Straight Rye Whiskey
Company: Company Distilling
Release Date: 2022
Proof: 107
Age: NAS
Color: Amber
MSRP: $80 (2024)
Mashbill: Undisclosed
The Barrel Bros’ Review
The initial nose of Seismic Rye Single Barrel is dominated by the high proof, with a subtle wood note that isn't overtly oaky. With patience, a slight sweetness emerges, akin to Fun Dip candy and hints of cherries, with a touch of banana nut muffin. The rye's characteristic pine note is present but understated. While there is a noticeable youthfulness, it dissipates quickly, allowing the other aromas to shine through.
The mouthfeel is buttery and full, offering a surprising sweetness not indicated by the nose. The cherry flavor comes forward prominently, balanced by a gentle rye presence, which manifests more as a piney note rather than an aggressive spiciness. Initially, the 107 proof might numb the tongue, but it becomes more enjoyable with each sip. There is a hint of peppermint that adds to the complexity.
The finish is where the rye character fully expresses itself, leaving a lasting impression of general rye flavors. The whiskey coats the mouth well, making the finish feel more extended than it is. Despite the initial lack of complexity, the finish rounds out the experience nicely.
Seismic Rye Single Barrel offers a unique profile, especially notable for its balance of sweetness and rye characteristics. It's a testament to the potential of smaller distilleries, even if it shows some youthful notes. While enjoyable, the MSRP of $80+ may be a sticking point, as there are more complex options at this price level. However, it's a good choice for those looking to support smaller producers or seeking unique rye for cocktails, as evidenced by its performance in Old Fashioneds both at the distillery and at home.
If you’re looking for specific notes from our Barrel Bros, read their individual reviews below!
Individual Reviews
The Rye Guy Says
Score: 7/10
Value: 3/5
THE NOSE:
There is a slight amount of youthy alcohol notes after the initial pour, but it did dissipate quickly.
The rye pine is present but very subdued. I am getting a bit of cherries accompanied by a banana nut muffin.
There is a little bit of sweetness but overall it reads somewhat dry on the nose.
THE TASTE:
Buttery and full mouthfeel. Here is where the cherry flavor really shows up.
Surprisingly sweet considering the nose wasn’t. The rye really only shows up as a piney note, I wouldnt say it’s overly spicy.
THE FINISH:
The finish is an overall rye experience.
If it wasn’t present in the palate, it certainly is now!
BUY OR PASS?
I really enjoyed this onsite at the distillery in their old fashioned, and it has made some great old fashioneds at home as well.
The Hunter Says
Score: 6/10
Value: 2.5/5
THE NOSE:
Proof, the whole proof, and nothing but the proof so help me God.
There’s a general wood note, but it's not a strong oak presence.
With patience, a little red fruit sweetness comes through, reminiscent of Fun Dip candy, but you really have to take your time to find it.
THE TASTE:
There’s a hint of sweetness at first, but it quickly gives way to a distinct — albeit young — rye profile.
You might catch a hint of peppermint. The 107 proof packs a punch on the first few sips, numbing the tongue a bit.
However, the experience gets better the more you sip on it.
THE FINISH:
There isn’t much to the finish besides a general rye flavor.
However, the whiskey does coat the mouth nicely, which makes the finish feel longer than it actually is.
BUY OR PASS?
I love trying whiskey from smaller distilleries, but that sometimes means getting an inferior product at a premium price. If this bottle were $40-50, I’d recommend it as a decent pour and a way to support a small distillery.
But at $80+, it’s hard to tell someone to grab a bottle. There are much better options at that price point.
