There is a lot to like about Corbin Cash 1917 Merced Rye on paper — David Souza is off to a good start has been doing interesting work. At 61.5% ABV), 750 ML bottle MSRP $48 and $48. There is a moderate nose burn with smoky notes of caramel, dark cherry, and the slightest hint , let us see if it lives up to expectations.
Nose
There is a moderate nose burn with smoky notes of caramel, dark cherry, and the slightest hint of cacao.
Palate
There is a smoky forwardness on the palate accompanied by a strong medicinal flavor. It has notes of mild cinnamon, pecan, caramel, dark cherry, and dark chocolate. This rye whiskey has a medium to long finish with a limited flavor profile. More specifically, the flavors that are there linger acceptably, but I would have liked to have been able to discover more flavors with subsequent sips. If the smokiness were more mellowed it might allow for more flavors to show through. Perhaps if it were aged a little longer it might have more to offer. rnrnNonetheless, Im still intrigued by this whiskey and will be very eager to try future rye whiskeys from this distillery. As with any new venture, theres always a learning curve, and I firmly believe that Master Distiller David Souza is off to a good start.
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
Corbin Cash 1917 Merced Rye is fine — not bad, not great, just fine. At $48. There is a moderate nose burn with smoky notes of caramel, dark cherry, and the slightest hint , I think there are better options in this range if you are willing to look around.
