Smooth Ambler Old Scout Single Barrel Rye Whiskey 57.1% Abv (750Ml)

Taste and Flavor Profile

Smooth Ambler Old Scout Single Barrel Rye Whiskey delivers a compelling flavor profile that balances spice, sweetness, and depth. The initial taste is a vibrant mix of rye spice and pepper, immediately awakening the palate. As the flavors develop, notes of caramel, dark chocolate, and toffee emerge, providing a layer of sweetness that complements the spiciness. Hints of dried fruit, such as figs and dates, add complexity, while subtle undertones of toasted oak and vanilla round out the profile, offering a well-integrated and satisfying taste experience.

Aroma & Bouquet

The aroma of Smooth Ambler Old Scout Single Barrel Rye is inviting and complex, setting the stage for the flavors to come. On the nose, you’ll encounter an intense burst of rye grain and freshly cracked black pepper, reflecting its high rye content. As it opens up, the bouquet reveals sweeter notes of brown sugar, honey, and a touch of maple syrup. This is balanced by underlying hints of leather, tobacco, and baking spices, creating a rich and layered aromatic experience that evolves with time in the glass.

Smooth & Finish

Despite its high proof, Smooth Ambler Old Scout Single Barrel Rye Whiskey is remarkably smooth and approachable. The mouthfeel is full and slightly viscous, providing a luxurious texture that coats the palate. The finish is long and warming, characterized by a delightful peppery spice that gradually fades into sweeter notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. There’s a lingering hint of cinnamon and nutmeg that leaves a pleasant, lasting impression, inviting another sip.

Craftsmanship and Distillation

Smooth Ambler Spirits has earned a reputation for transparency and quality in the American whiskey landscape. The Old Scout Single Barrel Rye is a sourced whiskey, meaning that Smooth Ambler selects and bottles barrels from other distilleries that meet their high standards. Each barrel is carefully chosen to ensure it aligns with Smooth Ambler's flavor profile and quality. The whiskey is aged in new charred American oak barrels, which impart rich, deep flavors and a robust character. Bottled at cask strength, the whiskey retains its original potency and flavor, providing a genuine, unadulterated rye whiskey experience.

How To Enjoy

Smooth Ambler Old Scout Single Barrel Rye Whiskey is best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water. The high proof means that a little water can help open up the flavors, revealing more subtle notes hidden beneath the initial spice and heat. For those who prefer a cocktail, this rye makes an excellent base for classic rye whiskey cocktails like the Manhattan, Old Fashioned, or Sazerac, where its bold flavors can shine through without being overshadowed.

Food Pairing and Serving Suggestions

The robust character of Smooth Ambler Old Scout Single Barrel Rye Whiskey pairs wonderfully with a variety of rich, savory foods. Consider pairing it with grilled steaks, barbecued meats, or charcuterie boards featuring smoked sausages and aged cheeses. For a dessert pairing, dark chocolate, pecan pie, or a spice-laden gingerbread cake can complement the whiskey's spiciness and sweetness. Serving the whiskey slightly chilled or over a large ice cube can enhance the tasting experience, particularly when pairing with food.

Who Is It For?

Smooth Ambler Old Scout Single Barrel Rye Whiskey is tailored for whiskey enthusiasts who appreciate bold flavors and higher-proof spirits. It is ideal for those who enjoy rye-forward profiles with a good balance of spice and sweetness. This whiskey appeals to collectors and connoisseurs who value single-barrel expressions for their unique characteristics and variations from barrel to barrel.

Awards and Recognition

Smooth Ambler Old Scout Single Barrel Rye Whiskey has garnered praise from whiskey critics and enthusiasts alike for its quality and flavor profile. The brand itself has been recognized in the whiskey world for its commitment to transparency and sourcing high-quality barrels. The Single Barrel Rye variant, in particular, has earned accolades for its boldness, depth, and well-rounded nature, further establishing Smooth Ambler as a respected name in the American whiskey scene.