John Sleeman & Sons Spring Mill Distillery Rye Whisky

This is the second release from the Spring Mill Distillery in my hometown of Guelph, Ontario. The first was the incredible bourbon-style Traditional Straight Whisky. This one promises to be more in the typical Canadian style: a blend of rye and corn matured in American and Canadian white oak.

On the nose there is slight sweetness and alcohol. Takes time to tease out the subtle aromas: caramel corn, wet stone, earthy dried leaf notes. Soft and creamy on the palate, very light-bodied, with sweetness giving way to some peppery spice. The finish is quite short but leaves the lingering taste of maple, which was a surprise.

Overall, this is enjoyable if you like Canadian blends. It is certainly smooth, yet a bit raw from lack of maturity. More suitable as a mixer in my book, but still decent.