As a fan of rye whiskey, I was excited to try this offering from Kooper Family Whiskey Co. The label on the bottle gives the impression that the whiskey was distilled by Kooper Family, but upon further research, I discovered that it is sourced from another distillery.
Table of Contents
Kooper Family Rye Overview
Product History
Kooper Family Rye is a blended rye whiskey that has gained popularity in recent years. The whiskey is a combination of 95/5 MGP rye and 51% rye from Tennessee, made by an undisclosed distillery.
The label of Kooper Family Rye gives the impression that Kooper Family Whiskey Co. distilled the whiskey, but they never used the word “distilled” on the label. However, the blend is a winner and is well-loved by whiskey enthusiasts.
Price Range
Kooper Family Rye is a reasonably priced whiskey, with a price range of around $40 to $55 per bottle. This makes it an excellent choice for those who want to try a high-quality rye whiskey without breaking the bank.
photo credit: www.kooperfamily.com
Tasting Notes
Aroma
When I first opened the bottle of Kooper Family Rye, I was greeted with a refreshing and earthy aroma. I could detect notes of fresh-cut grass, toffee pudding, citrus, and leather. The scent was not overpowering, but rather subtle and pleasant.
Flavor
On the palate, Kooper Family Rye offers a low burn with woody, spicy vanilla, and smoky oak flavors that dominate the palate. I could also detect undertones of sandalwood, sweet raisins, and a hint of tobacco. The rye spice hits first before warm layers of dark fruit develop. This interplay produces a decidedly darker-tasting rye than is typically experienced. As such, notes of plum and black cherry take control, leading to a rise in tobacco and oak.
Finish
The finish of Kooper Family Rye is smooth and leaves a pleasant aftertaste. The flavors linger for a while, but not too long, making it a great sipping whiskey. The finish is not too dry or too sweet, but rather balanced.
Rating
I would rate Kooper Family Rye highly and give it a solid 8 out of 10. It is a solid choice for anyone looking for a smooth and flavorful rye whiskey. The combination of the famous 95/5 MGP rye and a 51% rye from Tennessee made by an undisclosed distillery makes it a unique blend. The label may give the impression that Kooper Family Whiskey Co. distilled it, but the quality of the blend speaks for itself.
Mixing and Pairing
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Best Mixers
When it comes to mixing Kooper Family Rye, I prefer to keep it simple. A classic cocktail like a Manhattan or Old Fashioned is a great way to enjoy the smooth and spicy flavor of this rye whiskey. I also like to mix it with ginger ale or lemon-lime soda for a refreshing twist on a highball.
photo credit: www.pexels.com
Cocktail Suggestions
If you’re looking for some cocktail inspiration, here are a few of my favorite Kooper Family Rye recipes:
- Kooper’s Gold Rush: Mix 2 oz. Kooper Family Rye, 3/4 oz. honey syrup, and 3/4 oz. fresh lemon juice in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a lemon twist.
- Rye Sour: Mix 2 oz. Kooper Family Rye, 3/4 oz. fresh lemon juice, and 1/2 oz. simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a cherry and an orange slice.
- Spiced Apple Cider: Mix 2 oz. Kooper Family Rye, 4 oz. apple cider, 1/2 oz. cinnamon syrup, and a dash of bitters in a shaker with ice. Shake well and strain into a glass filled with ice. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
photo credit: commons.wikimedia.org
Food Pairings
Kooper Family Rye is a versatile whiskey that pairs well with a variety of foods. Its spicy notes make it a great match for bold flavors like barbecue, grilled meats, and spicy dishes. It also pairs well with rich, creamy cheeses like brie or camembert.
Here are a few food pairing suggestions to try:
- Barbecue ribs with a side of coleslaw
- Grilled steak with roasted vegetables
- Spicy chicken tacos with avocado salsa
- Brie cheese with crackers and fruit
Conclusion
Kooper Family Rye Whiskey is a unique blend of 3 and 5-year-old rye whiskeys, produced by a 100% family-owned and operated whiskey blending business located in Ledbetter, Texas.
Kooper Family Rye has a smooth and friendly taste, with notes of vanilla and oak. It is a great sipping whiskey that can also be used in cocktails.
I would recommend giving Kooper Family Rye a try, especially if you are a fan of rye whiskey or looking to try something new from Texas.
Related Posts
If you enjoyed reading my review of Kooper Family Rye, then you might be interested in checking out some of my other whiskey reviews. Here are a few of my favorites:
- Pure Kentucky XO Bourbon Review: A Friendly Tasting Guide: If you’re looking for a smooth and flavorful bourbon, then you might want to try Pure Kentucky XO. This bourbon has a rich and complex flavor profile that is sure to please any whiskey lover.
- Wild Turkey Rare Breed Barrel Proof Rye 112.2 Proof Review: Expert Insights: For those who prefer a higher proof whiskey, Wild Turkey Rare Breed Barrel Proof Rye is a great choice. This rye has a bold and spicy flavor that is sure to wake up your taste buds.
- Sam Houston 15 Year Bourbon Review: A Friendly Taste Test: If you’re looking for a unique and flavorful bourbon, then Sam Houston 15 Year is definitely worth a try. This bourbon has a rich and complex flavor profile that is sure to impress.
- Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt 21 Year Old: A Whisky Lover’s Must-Try Experience: For those who appreciate the finer things in life, Nikka Taketsuru Pure Malt 21 Year Old is a must-try. This Japanese whisky has a smooth and elegant flavor that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
- Burning Chair Bourbon: A Must-Try for Any Bourbon Lover: If you’re looking for a bourbon that is both unique and flavorful, then Burning Chair Bourbon is definitely worth a try. This bourbon has a bold and spicy flavor that is sure to satisfy any whiskey lover.
