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Fallon, Nevada\u2019s Frey Ranch Distillery<\/a> prides itself on offering farm-to-glass whiskey. All Frey Ranch grains are grown on the family farm. The Nevada distillery is one of the only true estate distilleries in the world and recently joined the Estate Whiskey Alliance to better promote the benefits of estate distilling. Proprietor Colby Frey<\/a> offers traditional mashbills for bourbon and rye, but also offers consumers something unique with the Single Grain Series. For the newest release in the Single Grain Series, Colby Frey and Master Distiller Russell Wedlake chose to use unmalted barley, offering a creamier, more viscous experience than a traditional single malt. Frey Ranch 100% Barley Whiskey is the result of 100% unmalted 2-row barley grown, harvested, milled with a hammer mill, and distilled on the Frey family farm.<\/p>\n The unique grain is fermented at 82 degrees Fahrenheit for 72 hours in an open-top tank. Frey Ranch<\/a> utilizes a Vendome column and pot still, specifying that it is not a doubler. Distillate comes off the still at 135 proof and enters the barrel at 125 proof. Perhaps unknown to many, Frey Ranch opts for barrels from Barrel 53 Cooperage in Higbee, Missouri. Barrel 53 constructed Missouri white oak casks featuring a #4 char for the staves and a #3 char for the heads. Each of the 3 barrels in the blend aged horizontally for 4 years and 8 months in a non-climate controlled warehouse at 60% humidity.<\/p>\n The world knows 100% malted barley whiskey like an old friend, but 100% unmalted barley whiskey remains a mysterious stranger. Frey Ranch invites us to uncover a curiosity we\u2019ve all quietly pondered. Will this be a letdown, like meeting a childhood hero only to find they\u2019ve lost their shine? Or will Frey Ranch 100% Barley Whiskey rise to the occasion, exceeding every dream we\u2019ve dared to imagine? Let\u2019s find out!<\/p>\n The nose opens with a delightful, salty hint of roasted peanuts, which provides an immediate, savory contrast to the sweeter notes that follow. A strong burst of grape soda comes through, unmistakably different from the typical raisin or grape notes found in wine cask finishes. This is a vibrant, effervescent note that reminds you of a chilled soda poured over ice, bringing an unexpected twist to the experience. Beneath that, a delicate floral essence of honeysuckle adds a touch of sweetness, balancing the more savory and fizzy elements. There\u2019s a subtle trace of pipe tobacco, offering a whisper of smoky warmth that ties everything together. Overall, the nose is well-rounded and complex, with each note playing off the other in a harmonious, enjoyable way.<\/p>\n The palate is immediately greeted by a strong, golden note of honey, which smoothly transitions into the rich sweetness of molasses, creating a deep, comforting foundation. As the flavors evolve, a distinct nuttiness of almonds arrives. The warmth of cloves begins to build, subtly spicing up the experience, while a surprising kick of black licorice arrives late in the palate, offering a bold and intriguing contrast to the earlier sweetness. The mouthfeel is heavy and viscous, coating the tongue with a luxurious texture that makes each sip feel indulgent. This combination of flavors and textures creates a very enticing tasting experience, drawing you in for another sip.<\/p>\n The finish takes an unexpected turn with a rubbery ester note, often found in high-funk Jamaican rum, evoking the distinct aroma of overripe banana. This adds a surprising layer of complexity that lingers on the palate. As it fades, the comforting sweetness of Nilla Wafers emerges, offering a subtle, vanilla-forward note that softens the finish. A final, savory touch of salted peanuts rounds out the experience, leaving a balanced and memorable aftertaste. The interplay of these flavors creates a finish that is intriguing, but slightly confusing.<\/p>\n The 100% Barley Whiskey impresses with a fantastic nose and a captivating initial palate that draws you in with its complexity and rich flavors. However, the finish fell short for me. The combination of the strong ester note and salted peanuts doesn\u2019t quite harmonize, detracting from an otherwise very good and unique whiskey. While the experience is intriguing, the finish prevents it from reaching its full potential.<\/p>\n 110 proof.<\/p>\n B+ \/ $59 (375ml) \/ freyranch.com<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n \t\t\t\t$59<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/p>\n <\/p>\nFrey Ranch 100% Barley Whiskey<\/h2>\n
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