I have been looking forward to getting my hands on Blackened Rye the Lightning. , it promises genuine character.
Nose
The whiskey is a clear, rich amber. On the first sip, the palate is much less sweet than the nose. Earthy notes of dried grass and clover and walnut are present. The leather note is in the palate as well. The palate is softer at first, but crescendoes into a strong lingering finish of sweet tea and mint, with a tingling menthol sensation on the tongue. the sweet tea note becomes stronger the longer the whiskey is sipped.
Palate
Immediately you are hit with strong vanilla and toasted sugar. After that first wave, polished leather, mint, and crisp apple unfurl. This was a wonderfully complex whiskey that kept opening up every time I went back to it. As much as I think this whiskey will appeal to Metallica fans, there is much to recommend it outside of the band’s affiliation. I think it is worth the slightly higher price tag to check out.
Finish
Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by Whiskeyful or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.
The Bottom Line
Blackened Rye the Lightning is outstanding — one of those bottles that reminds you why you fell in love with whiskey in the first place. If you see it, do not hesitate. This one earns a permanent spot on the shelf.
