Lot No. 40 (43.0%): Back in 2013 I had the chance to taste one of the first batches of Lot No. 40 after its resurrection in Providence with Davin de Kergommeoux back in time, loved it and posted some quick
tasting notes right after. But I have to admit it took me years to get my own bottle. Now finally it is sitting on my desk today and I can take a little longer time to sip it and review this multiple award winning rye whisky from Pernod-Ricard's portfolio. As some of you already know Lot No. 40 got released by Corby Distilleries back in 1990s as a part of their premium line-up but discontinued and disappeared after a short period of time. Today it is back and distilled from a 90% rye and 10% malted rye mash in Hiram Walker Distillery.
Color: Medium amber, dark copper.
Nose: An unmistakable rye nose... The full package delivered right to your doorstep: Ginger snap cookies and cinnamon and nutmeg dusting. Whole cloves and roasted cardamom pods. Toasted pumpernickel bagel, fresh parsley and black gardening soil. Beef stew and dill. Fells like going through the old photographs in your parent's attic: Damp, moldy and a little dusty. Thick and dense nose.
Palate: Raw brown sugar, rosemary sprigs, olive oil and feta cheese brine. Toasted oak staves and cinnamon. A rather thinner mouthfeel after that thick nose. A little hint of sweet Pastis, allspice and cooked prunes. If you allow a little longer some citrus notes evolve in time: Lemon peel and fresh yellow grapefruit juice.
Finish: Chalky and dusty... Long with sweet spices fading out: Nutmeg, cinnamon and ginger rock candy. Dry spiced rum and lots of oak.
Overall: Well, I don't know what else you would expect from a rye whisky but it certainly delivered everything I would possibly hope for. It is a whisky of exceptional quality at a very fair price (I paid $39.99 for my bottle). It would make a killer Manhattan but I think I will mostly sip it neat or just with a single of ice cube when it starts to get hot in this city... I guess what I am trying to say is: If you are looking for a rye whisky to keep in your whisky cabinet for any occasion this is the one. Don't look for anything else...
P.S.: Thanks to
Gerard Murphy for the correction of the mash bill...
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