As an expert sommelier and brewer, I am happy to provide a detailed answer to the question of whether Wiser's Rye is a whiskey or a rye.
To begin, it is important to understand the distinction between rye and whiskey. Rye refers to a style of whiskey that is primarily made from rye grain, whereas whiskey is a broad category that encompasses various styles made from different grains, such as corn, barley, and wheat.
In the case of Wiser's Rye, it is indeed a whiskey, but specifically a Canadian whiskey. Canadian whiskey often contains a blend of grains, including rye, corn, barley, and wheat. The specific blend of grains can vary from one Canadian whiskey to another, giving each its own unique flavor profile.
Wiser's Rye, in particular, has undergone some changes in recent years. The previous iteration of Wiser's Rye was replaced by a new version with a higher rye content. The distillery made the decision to raise the rye content to 62% and blend it with wheat and corn. This change in the blend has resulted in a different flavor profile compared to the previous version.
Now, let's delve into the taste characteristics of Wiser's Rye. The increased rye content brings a spiciness and complexity to the whiskey. You may notice notes of pepper, cinnamon, and cloves, which are typical of rye-based spirits. The addition of wheat and corn in the blend can add sweetness and smoothness to balance out the spiciness.
In my personal experience, I have found Wiser's Rye to be a versatile and enjoyable whiskey. It can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a base for cocktails. The higher rye content lends itself well to classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or the Manhattan, where the spiciness can shine through and complement other ingredients.
Wiser's Rye is a Canadian whiskey with a higher rye content, blended with wheat and corn. It falls under the category of rye whiskey within the broader category of whiskey. The change in the blend has resulted in a different flavor profile, with increased spiciness and complexity. Wiser's Rye is a versatile and enjoyable whiskey that can be enjoyed in various ways.