Town Branch Small Batch Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey (Updated 2025 Review)

A little background

This updated review revisits Town Branch Small Batch Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, originally reviewed on Whiskey Consensus in 2020 (our origional review can be found here). Produced by Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co. in Lexington, Kentucky, this small batch rye is bottled at 100 proof, non-chill filtered, and released annually under allocation each August. Crafted from a mash bill of 90% rye, 5% corn, and 5% malted barley, the whiskey reflects the distillery’s dedication to traditional methods and quality craftsmanship. Priced at approximately $48 USD, it continues to represent Town Branch’s balance of heritage and innovation.

Town Branch Distillery stands as part of the historic Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co., a family-owned operation revived by Dr. Pearse Lyons and now led by his son, Mark. With roots tracing back to the late 1800s and a proud legacy of both brewing and distilling, the company became the first new distillery built in Lexington in more than a century. Today, Town Branch produces a range of spirits including bourbon, malt, and rye, all embodying the Lyons family’s passion for quality and respect for Kentucky’s deep whiskey traditions.

(Tasted neat from a Glencairn Glass)

Color

Gold

Nose

Yellow cake, cherry, milk chocolate, peanuts, caramel, sweet tea, candle wax, and nutmeg.

Palate

Peach, creamy vanilla, lemon citrus, oak, fig, raisin, dark chocolate, cinnamon, white pepper, and rye spice.

Finish

Espresso, chocolate, peaches, rye spice, white pepper, lemon/lime jello, and oak.

In closing

This updated review of Town Branch Small Batch Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey reflects a clear evolution from our original 2020 assessment. What was once a solid but somewhat restrained rye has matured into a more expressive and balanced spirit, showing notable depth and refinement. The palate now offers a richer fruit character, highlighted by peach, fig, and citrus, supported by layers of creamy vanilla, chocolate, and oak. Its medium-to-long finish carries an enjoyable interplay of rye spice, coffee, and subtle sweetness, creating a rounded and satisfying close. With a pleasing mouthfeel, impressive flavor development, and strong value for the price, Town Branch’s rye continues to prove that patience and persistence pay off. Simply put, this latest batch demonstrates meaningful improvement and stands as one of the most enjoyable and approachable Kentucky ryes at this price point.

NOTE: The sample used for this review was provided at no cost courtesy of Town Branch Distillery. We thank them for the sample and for allowing us to review it with no strings attached.