2020 Hughes Belle of Bedford Straight Rye Whiskey 104 Proof 750ml

Hailing from the historic distilling region of Bedford County, PA, Hughes Belle of Bedford Straight Rye Whiskey is a testament to time-honored craftsmanship. This 'Pure Rye' offers a vivacious and spicy journey for the palate, unfolding layers of classic rye character intertwined with nuanced hints of fruit and oak. It's a truly distinctive whiskey, perfect for those who appreciate the robust and complex legacy of Pennsylvania rye.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A captivating and complex nose, immediately revealing classic rye spice notes of black pepper, clove, and caraway. Underlying these sharp aromatics are softer hints of dried apricot, orange peel, and aged leather, with a faint suggestion of toasted oak and vanilla bean, suggesting maturation in quality charred barrels. A subtle earthy quality, perhaps from its Pennsylvania roots, adds further intrigue.

Palate: The palate delivers on the promise of the nose, offering a bold and peppery spice attack that quickly transitions into a more rounded experience. Freshly baked rye bread, dark chocolate, and candied ginger dominate, balanced by a touch of caramel sweetness and a hint of mint. The mouthfeel is medium-bodied and chewy, suggesting a well-integrated spirit despite its NAS designation. There's a mineral quality, perhaps slate, that speaks to the terroir.

Finish: A long, warm, and satisfying finish that lingers with notes of baking spices, particularly cinnamon and nutmeg, and a pleasant reprise of black pepper. A drying oak presence emerges gently, leaving a clean, crisp, and slightly herbaceous aftertaste. The spiciness recedes elegantly, inviting another sip to unravel its depths.