Dad’s Hat White Rye Whiskey

Step into the bold spirit of Pennsylvania’s past with Dad’s Hat White Rye Whiskey. Distilled by Mountain Laurel Spirits in Bristol, Pennsylvania, this 100-proof (50% ABV) unaged rye, released in 2016, captures the raw essence of Monongahela-style rye. Crafted from a mashbill of 80% rye, 15% malted barley, and 5% malted rye sourced from local farms, it’s distilled twice after a weeklong fermentation and bottled straight from the still, undiluted except to proof down. Non-chill filtered, this crystal-clear spirit delivers a spicy, complex profile that’s a nod to clandestine Appalachian distilling. Sip it neat to embrace its fiery herbal kick, mix it in a Gold Rush cocktail for a zesty twist, or shake it with jalapeño and lime for a spicy mule.

Nose: Meaty and burly, with dried herbs, spicy peppery rye, and a hint of anise. Lemon zest and fresh grass emerge, with a retro-nasal whiff of black cherry. It’s a bold, rustic tease

Palate: Lightly sweet, with dried herbs, anise, and lemon zest upfront. Fresh grass and a touch of black cherry balance the spicy rye, offering a clean, vibrant sip.

Finish: Short and crisp, with lingering anise, black pepper, and a faint grassy note, fading into a spicy, herbal glow.

Pair this rye with smoked brisket—the herbal notes love the char. Want a bite? Try aged cheddar; it lifts the anise. For dessert, a lemon tart echoes the palate’s zest. Feeling bold? Grilled pork with a jalapeño glaze ties the finish into a Pennsylvania feast