Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to have gained a bit of wisdom when it comes to whiskey. I’d love to tell you that craft beer and wine are my favorites, but that’s just not true. As a whiskey-lover, you might ask me exactly what my favorite whiskey is, but I’d have to admit that I haven’t tried enough. However, I am here to share a few choices that I really enjoy across all ends of the spectrum – from dry to sweet. This is my attempt to catalogue three whiskeys you may want to try to appropriately celebrate Whisk(e)y Day.
If you’re not a whiskey drinker but like cocktails.
At The Short North Pint House, Short North
If you love whiskey, please do yourself a favor and look for Hochstadter’s Slow & Low Rock and Rye. I prefer it served neat, and the forward scent of honey goes well with the citrus and rye flavors. The finish gives it a touch of an Old Fashioned. Try this if you’re looking for a smooth, dry drink with a cocktail taste.
If you prefer your drink sweet.
At the Barrel On High, Short North
Let me say that I am an especially big fan of this Woodford Reserve Double Oaked. The taste has a caramel sweetness, and a spicy finish, with a honey flavor. You may see the trend that I enjoy is the heat and fruit in a drink, and a dash of sweetness to round out the taste. This is a classic whiskey that is smooth and will set your palate up for success.
If you enjoy a balance of smooth and spice.
At the Barrel On High, Short North
Templeton Rye or, as it is also known, “The GOOD Stuff” is extremely smooth and this is no nonsense drink — it may be the best one I’ve tried yet. I always love an excuse to have my friends try whiskey, and the non-connoisseur in me just says, “It’s good!” My dear friends who are not rye whiskey drinkers say it’s “smooth and clean with a warm aftertaste and doesn’t burn.” I enjoy Templeton Rye neat, but I heard it goes well when not straight up in a mule cocktail.
There you have it! These three whiskeys are all really delicious and refreshing, and offer a nice change of pace for the beginner or skilled whiskey drinker alike — especially while celebrating Whisk(e)y Day. Cheers!
