Top 5 Under-the-Radar Whiskeys of 2023

Stepping off the beaten path of big-name bourbons and trendy Japanese malts can be an adventure for whiskey enthusiasts. Here are 5 under-the-radar gems from 2023 that will tantalize your taste buds and impress your fellow aficionados:

1. Westland Garry Oak Finish Single Malt (Seattle, WA)

Nose: A crisp Pacific Northwest breeze wafts through, carrying earthy juniper and sage aromas intermingled with citrus zest and a hint of honeyed sweetness. The Garry Oak's unique influence whispers in the background, adding a touch of herbal complexity.

Palate: Garry Oak takes center stage, its earthy, herbal notes dancing with the citrusy brightness of lemon and grapefruit. Hints of honey and vanilla from the malt peek through, creating a surprisingly balanced and intriguing interplay.

Finish: The herbal symphony lingers, gently fading into a whisper of oak and a touch of lingering citrus zest. It's a clean and refreshing finish, leaving you wanting another sip to explore its hidden depths.

Verdict: An innovative spirit that showcases the potential of local wood in whiskey maturation. Westland Garry Oak is a perfect choice for the adventurous drinker who appreciates nuanced and unexpected flavors.

2. Corsair Ryemageddon (Nashville, TN)

Nose: Don't let the name fool you; this rye isn't here to play nice. A fiery wave of black pepper and ginger hits first, followed by hints of clove and cinnamon. Beneath the spice, whispers of caramel and dark fruit peek through, offering a glimpse of hidden sweetness.

Palate: The rye explodes on the tongue, a cascade of spice that warms the chest and tickles the senses. Black pepper dominates, mingling with clove and a hint of ginger. As the heat subsides, notes of caramel and ripe plum emerge, offering a welcome balance.

Finish: The fiery spice lingers long after the last sip, slowly fading into a warm embrace of oak and lingering hints of tropical fruit from the rum barrel finish. It's a finish that leaves you breathless and wanting more.

Verdict: A bold and unapologetic spirit, perfect for those who enjoy a good fiery kick. Corsair Ryemageddon is a conversation starter in a bottle, guaranteed to impress your fellow whiskey enthusiasts.

3. High West Campfire Rye (Park City, UT)

Nose: Close your eyes and imagine a crackling campfire under a star-studded sky. That's the essence of Campfire Rye. Smoky notes dance with hints of toasted marshmallows and caramel, while cinnamon and nutmeg warm the senses. A touch of honey adds a touch of sweetness, inviting you closer.

Palate: The initial smokiness gives way to a wave of toasted oak and caramel, reminiscent of roasted marshmallows over an open fire. Hints of cinnamon and pepper add warmth and complexity, while the rye's signature spice provides a gentle tingle on the tongue.

Finish: The smoke slowly fades, leaving behind a warm embrace of oak and lingering sweetness. It's a comforting finish, like the embers of a dying fire, perfect for savoring by a crackling fireplace or sharing with friends on a chilly night.

Verdict: High West Campfire Rye captures the essence of Western comfort in a glass. It's a perfect choice for those who appreciate a spirit that evokes cozy nights and shared stories, ideal for sipping by the fire or enjoying outdoors under the stars.

4. FEW Rye Single Barrel (Evanston, IL)

Nose: Bold and uncompromising, the FEW Rye Single Barrel announces its presence with a blast of black pepper and mint. Hints of dark chocolate and oak add depth and intrigue, while a touch of honey provides a hint of sweetness in the background.

Palate: The rye's spiciness takes center stage, a symphony of black pepper and clove that warms the palate and awakens the senses. Mint adds a refreshing coolness, while the dark chocolate and oak provide a rich, earthy counterpoint. The honey balances the spice, creating a complex and harmonious interplay.

Finish: The spiciness slowly fades, leaving behind a warming embrace of oak and a lingering hint of dark chocolate. It's a clean and dry finish, showcasing the rye's character without unnecessary embellishments.

Verdict: A testament to FEW's dedication to grain-to-glass craftsmanship, this rye is for those who appreciate bold and unapologetic flavors. It's a spirit that demands attention and rewards the patient drinker with its depth and complexity.

5. Old Fourth Bardstown Batch Release No. 1 (Bardstown, KY)

Nose: A symphony of fruit greets the nose, with ripe plums and dark berries leading the charge. Hints of baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth and complexity, while the classic bourbon notes of oak and vanilla peek through in the