Old Carter Straight Rye Whiskey 2020 Batch 6

A little background

Old Carter Whiskey Co. is the brainchild of Mark and Sherri Carter, the producers of fine Napa Valley wines under the name Carter Cellars. According to Mark and Sherri, “Old Carter Whiskey Co. is focused on creating totally unique, very small-batch, straight rye and bourbon whiskies. “We create our spirits from the heart, each one a single expression of what we love.” From selecting barrels, creating new blends, and handwriting each individual label by hand, the Carters do it all. Since the first releases in 2018, quite a few different batches of Old Carter have been released, ranging from less than 100 bottles per batch to over 2,000. This review is for the 2020 release of Old Carter Rye Batch 6. This batch is a blend of barrels that were hand selected and distilled in Indiana. Batch 6 is a barrel strength 116.3 proof rye with a price tag of around $200.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Nose

Old Carter Rye Batch 6 has a nose that is very floral with a touch of sweetness that shines through as it opens up. Notes of citrus and spice linger in the background.

Palate

The palate carries over the florality that is apparent on the nose but really accentuates the sweetness and spice notes in the form of caramel and red hot candies. A big fresh mint note really pops as well.

Finish

This rye has a very long finish; however, it not overpowering at all. Notes of mint, butterscotch, caramel, and those red hot candies really shine through.

In closing

Old Carter Rye Batch 6 is a very good rye that any whiskey buff would love to have in their collection. The price is pretty steep at $200, but the flavor deliveries with this one if you are a fan of barrel proof ryes.