Hurst Knoll Kentucky Straight Rye by Rare Character

Hurst Knoll from Rare Character feels like someone finally built a rye specifically for the bar, then made sure it still sings neat. This is Kentucky straight rye, blended from high-rye barrels aged a minimum of seven years and bottled at 101 proof. The profile targets balance and punch, with enough structure for classic cocktails and enough charm to stand alone in the glass.

On the nose, warm rye spice leads, wrapped in toasted oak and caramelized sugar. Vanilla bean, dried herbs, orange zest, and a hint of rye bread follow. There’s a subtle brown sugar glaze in the background that gives the aroma a welcoming, almost bakeshop glow.

The palate lands medium-plus in body, with caramel, honeyed grain, and vanilla up front before cracked black pepper and cinnamon bark kick in. Toasted oak, dried herbs, and a thread of orange peel keep things bright rather than brooding. High-rye energy shows clearly, but the sweetness reins it in, making each sip feel focused instead of jagged.

The finish runs long and warm, lined with baking spice, dark wood, and lingering caramel. Rye bread, black pepper, and a touch of citrus pith hang on at the edges. It shines in Old Fashioneds, Manhattans, and highballs, yet still feels complete poured neat over a quiet block of ice.

Nose: Warm rye spice, toasted oak, and caramelized sugar lead, followed by vanilla bean, dried herbs, and a soft rye-bread note. Orange zest and light brown sugar bring brightness and comfort together.

Palate: Caramel and honeyed grain set the tone, joined by vanilla, cracked black pepper, and cinnamon bark.
Toasted oak, dried herbs, and orange peel add lift, while the 101 proof keeps everything lively without beating up the palate.

Finish: Long and steady, with baking spice, dark wood, and lingering caramel at the core. Rye bread, black pepper, and a faint echo of citrus pith trail off slowly, leaving the mouth comfortably warm.

This rye loves food with char, salt, and a bit of fat.

Pour it next to grilled burgers, pastrami on rye, or pepper-crusted pork chops to mirror the spice and caramel.
Fried chicken with a honey drizzle or hot chicken sandwiches play well with its sweet heat.

On the snack side, think sharp cheddar, smoked gouda, or a board of cured meats and grainy mustard.

For dessert, pecan tart, spiced carrot cake, or dark chocolate bark with candied orange peel dovetail with its caramel, spice, and citrus notes.