After trying out Kooper Family Rye, I can say that it is a solid choice for anyone looking for a smooth and flavorful rye whiskey. The Kooper Family Whiskey Co. has done an excellent job of blending this rye, which is sourced from an undisclosed distillery in Tennessee.

Kooper Family Rye is a great option for those who are looking for a unique and flavorful rye whiskey. The blend of two straight rye whiskeys and the finishing in used bourbon barrels give it a distinct taste that is sure to please whiskey lovers.

Kooper Family Rye Overview

Product History

Kooper Family Rye is a small-batch whiskey produced by the Kooper Family Whiskey Co. in Texas. The whiskey is a blend of two straight rye whiskeys, a 3-year-old rye from MGP and a 5-year-old rye from an undisclosed distillery in Tennessee. The two whiskeys are aged slowly and then married together in small batches by the Kooper family. The resulting blend is then finished in used bourbon barrels to give it a unique flavor profile.

Price Range

Kooper Family Rye is priced at around $45 per bottle, making it a mid-range whiskey option. The price is reasonable considering the quality of the whiskey and the fact that it is a small-batch product. While it may not be the cheapest option on the market, it is still an affordable choice for whiskey enthusiasts who are looking for a high-quality rye whiskey.

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Tasting Notes

Aroma

The Kooper Family Rye has a refreshing aroma of fresh cut grass, toffee pudding, citrus, and leather. At first, there is a strong smell of paint and varnish, but it dissipates quickly. Then the herbaceous notes like dried dill and mint emerge, which are accompanied by warm grain and citrus peel.

Flavor

On the palate, the Kooper Family Rye offers woody, spicy vanilla, and smoky oak flavors that dominate the taste, with undertones of sandalwood, sweet raisins, and a hint of tobacco. The rye spice hits first before warm layers of dark fruit develop, producing a decidedly darker tasting rye than is typically experienced. As such, notes of plum and black cherry take control leading to a rise of tobacco and oak.

Finish

The finish is long and smooth with a low burn on the palate. The spicy and woody flavors linger long after the last sip, leaving a pleasant aftertaste.

Rating

Overall, I found the Kooper Family Rye to be a winner. It is a combination of the famous 95/5 MGP rye and a 51% rye from Tennessee, made by an undisclosed distillery. The blend creates a unique and complex flavor profile that is sure to please any whiskey lover. I would rate it 9 out of 10.

Mixing and Pairing

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Best Mixers

When it comes to mixing Kooper Family Rye, I suggest keeping it simple and letting the whiskey shine. A classic whiskey sour with fresh lemon juice and simple syrup is an excellent choice. You can also try mixing it with ginger beer or cola for a refreshing and easy-to-make drink.

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Cocktail Suggestions

Kooper Family Rye is a versatile whiskey that can be used in a variety of cocktails. Here are some of my favorite cocktail suggestions:

• Old Fashioned: Combine 2 oz Kooper Family Rye, 1 tsp sugar, 2 dashes Angostura bitters, and a splash of water in a glass. Stir until the sugar is dissolved, then add ice and garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.
• Manhattan: Combine 2 oz Kooper Family Rye, 1 oz sweet vermouth, and 2 dashes Angostura bitters in a shaker with ice. Strain into a chilled glass and garnish with a cherry.
• Whiskey Ginger: Mix 2 oz Kooper Family Rye with ginger beer and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve over ice in a highball glass.

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Food Pairings

Kooper Family Rye’s spicy and complex flavor profile makes it an excellent pairing for a variety of dishes. Here are some food pairing suggestions:

• BBQ: The spicy and smoky notes in Kooper Family Rye make it a perfect match for BBQ. Try pairing it with brisket, pulled pork, or ribs.
• Cheese: Aged cheddar or gouda pair well with the bold flavors of Kooper Family Rye.
• Chocolate: The sweetness of chocolate is a great complement to the spicy notes in Kooper Family Rye. Try pairing it with dark chocolate truffles or a chocolate dessert.

Conclusion

I found Kooper Family Rye Whiskey to be a friendly and approachable whiskey that is perfect for those who are new to rye or looking for a more mellow rye experience. The unique blend of 3 and 5-year-old straight ryes results in a smooth and flavorful whiskey that is easy to drink.

Related Posts

As a whiskey enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for new and exciting offerings to add to my collection or to savor during special occasions. If you enjoyed the Kooper Family Rye, then you might also enjoy some of these other whiskies that I’ve tried and reviewed recently:

• Sam Houston 15 Year Bourbon Review: A Friendly Taste Test: This unique and flavorful bourbon is aged for 15 years and offers a complex flavor profile that is sure to impress.
• Old Forester Single Barrel Barrel Strength Review: Unveiling the Flavor Profile: This bourbon has gained quite a following in the whiskey community, and for good reason. It’s a well-balanced, full-bodied bourbon that is perfect for sipping.
• Burning Chair Bourbon: A Must-Try for Any Bourbon Lover: This bourbon has been getting some attention in the whiskey world, and for good reason. It’s a well-crafted, smooth bourbon that is perfect for sipping.
• Woodinville Cask Strength Straight Bourbon Review: Your Friendly Guide: If you’re looking for a bold, flavorful bourbon, then this cask-strength offering from Woodinville might be just what you’re looking for.
• Buchanan’s Two Souls Scotch Whiskey Review: A Friendly Taste Test: This unique blend caught my attention due to its innovative flavor profile, and it did not disappoint.