Templeton Rye

Aficionados of liquor know rye whiskey is making a comeback. After decades of only a few brands to select from (only one in my area – Jim Beam’s rye product), rye whiskeys have come back as if through a time machine. Before prohibition in the U.S., rye was a common grain used to make whiskey and many farmers grew it for distillers. But when prohibition hit, there was little market for it, so many farmers switched to other grains.

Everything Old is New Again
Those keen on rye today have may have heard the story of a little distillery that ran during prohibition in the small town of Templeton, Iowa. Templeton ran rye for many speak-easies in Chicago. It’s rumored Templeton made the best rye in the Midwest: Al Capone’s favorite as well. Decades later, along comes the Templeton Rye company, back in Templeton, Iowa, claiming to make it from the same recipe that Al drank so long ago; a small batch rye with serious character.

And it’s true.

Visit Templeton’s website and you’ll see not only the history of this fine beverage, but the actual salt-of-the-earth folks who made, ran, and drank Templeton Rye back in the day. Rye-drinkers needn't worry if Templeton is banking on its storied history alone; the quality is truly fine.

Never Had Rye?
When describing the taste of rye, I’ve often referred to it as spicy, the way white pepper is spicy and with a little bit of a nutty flavor, maybe vanilla. (The first time I shared a bottle of Jim Beam rye with a non-rye drinker, they described the flavor as ‘ass.’ Tasting it now that good ryes have returned, they weren’t far off.)

The best way I could describe Templeton Rye to folks who haven't tried rye is “imagine the flavor of Jack Daniels, but lighter. And now imagine that it’s actually good.” Templeton adds floral and understated smoky, caramel notes to the mix making a really enjoyable beverage on the rocks with just a splash of water.

As I write this, I’m enjoying my first taste of a commemorative small batch made for Templeton Iowa’s quasquicentennial celebration. It’s a lighter color and missing some of the floral, definitely different. I’m glad to get to try a taste, but I’m equality glad it came in small bottle. It’s hard for me to tell if it’s really different or just a different batch. I’m looking forward to another of the usual batch I’d enjoyed so much the first time.

Best bites,
James