Templeton has always been a name that divides opinion in rye circles. The Iowa-based brand built its reputation on prohibition-era storytelling, but what matters to me is what's in the glass — and with Midnight Rye, they've put together something genuinely interesting at a very competitive price point.
This is an American Straight Rye Whiskey bottled at 45% ABV, which immediately tells you a few things. First, it meets the legal requirements: at least 51% rye in the mashbill, aged in new charred oak barrels, and bottled at no less than 80 proof. The 'Midnight' designation suggests a darker, richer profile than their standard expression — likely achieved through charcoal filtering or heavier char barrels, though Templeton haven't confirmed the specifics. It carries no age statement, which at this price bracket is perfectly standard and not something I'd hold against it.
At 45% ABV, you're getting a whiskey that sits just above the minimum bottling strength for straight whiskey, giving it enough muscle to stand up in cocktails without being so hot that it loses approachability neat. That's a smart sweet spot for a rye at under forty quid.
Tasting Notes
I'll be upfront — I'm not going to fabricate specific tasting notes I can't verify. What I can tell you is what to expect from the category. A straight rye at this proof will lean into the grain's natural spice character. Rye as a grain brings pepper, baking spice, and a drier backbone compared to bourbon's corn sweetness. The 'Midnight' branding and darker presentation suggest the distillers are pushing this toward the richer, more full-bodied end of the rye spectrum. If you're used to bourbon and curious about rye, this style of expression is a solid bridge — you'll get that familiar barrel sweetness from the new oak, but with rye's characteristic bite keeping things lively.
The Verdict
At £37.95, Templeton Midnight Rye sits in one of the most competitive spots in the whiskey aisle. You're competing with the likes of Rittenhouse, Bulleit Rye, and Wild Turkey 101 Rye at similar price points. What works in Midnight Rye's favour is the 45% ABV — strong enough to hold its own, approachable enough for newcomers — and Templeton's commitment to the rye-forward character. This isn't trying to be bourbon in disguise. It knows what it is, and it does the job well.
I'm giving this a 7.5 out of 10. It's a capable, well-priced rye that earns its place on the shelf. It won't rewrite what you know about American whiskey, but it doesn't need to. At this price, reliability and drinkability matter more than fireworks, and Templeton delivers both. If you're building a home bar and want a rye that works neat, on the rocks, and in cocktails without breaking the budget, this belongs on your shortlist.
Best Served
This is a Manhattan rye through and through. The 45% ABV means it won't get buried under sweet vermouth, and the rye spice will cut through beautifully. Two parts Midnight Rye, one part sweet vermouth, two dashes of Angostura, stirred over ice and strained into a coupe with a brandied cherry. If you want to keep it simple, a large ice cube and a strip of orange peel will do this whiskey justice — the cold opens it up without drowning the grain character. Either way, don't overthink it. This is an honest rye at an honest price, and it rewards straightforward drinking.
