Templeton Rye 10 Year
Overall Score: 7.5/10
Overall Value: 3.5/5
Distillery: Sourced from MGP
Classification: Straight Rye
Company: Infinium Spirits
Release Date: Ongoing
Proof: 104
Age: 10 Years
Mashbill: 95% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
Color: Dark Hazelnut
MSRP: $90
The Barrel Bros’ Review
Templeton 10-year Rye offers an complex journey that begins with an excellent nose. From the beginning, you’ll get hints of orange intertwined with the fragrance of cherry Twizzlers. This opens up into a dry woodiness with subtle undertones of black pepper. As the palate unfolds, you’re greeted with a sweetness reminiscent of graham cracker and cherry, gradually transitioning to a smoky, campfire-like flavor. The mouth-feel is robust, most likely a testament to its age. Throughout all aspects of the drink, the rye spice remains present, adding familiarity to the experience.
This bottle delivers a well-rounded finish, with lingering notes of sweetness akin to jam, leaving an excellent finish from this higher-aged rye. Priced at an MSRP of around $90-$100, Templeton 10-year Rye offers excellent value, especially for Barrel Bros seeking a slightly more complex sipping experience. While it may not suit every palate, its complexity and balance make it a standout choice. For enthusiasts in search of a nice weekend pour, this rye promises a complex journey worth savoring.
If you’re looking for specific notes from our Barrel Bros, read their individual reviews below!
Individual Reviews
The Rye Guy Says
Score: 7.5/10
Value: 3/5
THE NOSE:
Upon first greeting the whiskey I was met with a sweet cherry scent, like opening a pack of cherry Twizzlers.
It starts sweet but changes to a dry woodiness bringing with it notes of black pepper.
The classic rye spice is present but only to underline the previous notes.
THE TASTE:
Like the nose, I’m initially met with a cherry sweetness. This is a fleeting flavor, however, and the sip moves towards a smokiness.
I got the faint hint of pete, but more similar to the smells you get sitting around a campfire. At 10 years old, this may be drawing from the char levels of the barrel, but it’s well-balanced within the whiskey.
The mouthfeel is excellent and full. The oakiness of the older age is present but remains a secondary flavor. It drinks much higher proof than it is, which I appreciate but may be due to the spiciness of the rye.
THE FINISH:
The finishes of a lot of rye whiskey have a tendency to remind me of jelly or jam and I do get a little bit of that here.
This is the part of the pour where the sweetness starts to shine, but it's no longer the cherry note I got from earlier.
The finish is long and sweet which is exactly what I love!
BUY OR PASS?
It's nailing all of the aspects of a pour that you want a 10-year whiskey to do, but the flavors may not be for everyone. This is a mature bottle, and it shows across the board.
For me, I wish this bottle was just a tad bit less expensive from an overall value perspective, but that’s about the only thing I’d change!
The Hunter Says
Score: 7.5/10
Value: 4/5
THE NOSE:
Delicate rye notes that gracefully greet you, not too overpowering, just right.
The age shines through with a perfect touch of oakiness. There's also a subtle hint of orange in there.
As it opens up, it's like unwrapping more layers of flavor. I get: graham cracker, impeccably baked pie crust, and a dash of butterscotch. If you're the type to savor the nose all night long, this is your go-to pour.
THE TASTE:
Here's where things get interesting. Yes, you've got that classic rye spice, but it's dialed down a notch - thanks to those ten years of aging, no doubt. Some may love that, but the rye guys out there may wish for more spice.
There's a gentle sweetness if you're paying close attention, adding another dimension to the experience.
THE FINISH:
For me, this is where the magic truly happens.
Picture yourself by a campfire, roasting marshmallows. That's the vibe here, with a delightful sweetness lingering on the palate for what seems like an eternity.
Pro tip: take it slow. Rushing through sips might rob you of that luxurious finish. Patience is key.
BUY OR PASS?
In the realm of value, Templeton 10-year Rye earns a solid 4 out of 5 at a price range of $90-$100, and the best part? It's not a treasure hunt to find it. Overall, on a scale of ryes I've had the pleasure of tasting, it comfortably earns a 7.5 out of 10.
But remember, this isn't a drink to gulp down hastily. Take your time, savor each sip, and let the experience unfold. Cheers to the art of slow sipping!
