J. W. Kelly Golden Age Straight Rye Whiskey

Chattanooga history inspires this golden rye. J.W. Kelly first poured his original rye recipe inside his legendary Market Street tavern back in 1892. This modern revival honors that historic recipe with a unique mash bill featuring 65% rye alongside 35% combined malted grains. The heavy reliance on malted barley and malted rye creates a distinctly plush, creamy mouthfeel. It's a refreshing departure from sharp ryes.

Superior oak barrels shape its character. Aged in charred white oak, the spirit marries bright fruit notes with deep wood sugar sweetness. That extra malt softens the typical rye bite while maintaining plenty of bold structure at 94 proof. You'll love how smoothly it sits on your palate. Enjoy it neat or mixed classic style.

Nose: Sweet orchard fruits lead the aroma. Crisp green apple peel, ripe pear, and floral clover honey mingle effortlessly with classic, fragrant rye spice as the glass warms in hand. Soft malted grain balances the brighter herbal top notes.

Palate: Light caramel and honeyed malt coat the tongue. Flavors of warm crusty bread, toasted cereal, and brown sugar transition into a velvety mid-palate laced with baking spices and candied ginger. The texture stays remarkably soft and round.

Finish: Crisp white pepper warms the backend cleanly. Subtle hints of dried herbs, sweet oak, and lingering spice taper off gently across your throat without any harsh burn. It finishes with a delightful caramel echo.

Rich savory bites complement these sweet grains. Serve a pour alongside thinly sliced hot pastrami sandwiches, cured smoked salmon, or a creamy wedge of sharp aged gouda cheese. Crisp apple tart also highlights the orchard fruit notes.