Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye Review

About – Chicken Cock is one of the many historical brands that has been revived during the current bourbon boom. The brand was first established in Kentucky in 1856 and stayed around until a distillery fire forced them to close shop shortly after WWII. This rye is the first released under the brand name in more than 70 years. Unlike many of those historical brands that have been revived, Chicken Cock has not settled for bottling sourced product and smacking a feel good story on a bottle. Instead they have worked closely with Bardstown Bourbon Company using their collaborative distilling program to create a unique product. Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye is bottled at 90 proof and costs around $70.

Nose – This nose has a cloying sweetness. A big dose of fresh spearmint hits first and plays nicely with the vanilla that follows. On the deep inhale rye spice leaves the nostrils tingling.

Palate – Much like the nose sweet spearmint makes the first impression. Rye spice moves in on the mid palate tingling the tongue. The rye spice is joined by a bright lemony citrus leading into a fairly short finish. The aftertaste is lemon-lime really similar to drinking a Sprite. A touch of grain did show up slightly on the finish as well.

Score – B-

Verdict – The finish is really intriguing. I am someone who occasionally enjoys a Sprite during the summer months and this is the only time I can think of getting that in a whiskey. It is kind of light, but the flavors are enjoyable and unique. The touch of grain brings it down just a bit and is something that should go away with more aging. Chicken Cock is off to a good start and I look forward to seeing what happens with this rye as it continues to age.