{"id":10278,"date":"2023-07-04T16:13:38","date_gmt":"2023-07-04T15:13:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/?p=10278"},"modified":"2023-07-04T16:13:38","modified_gmt":"2023-07-04T15:13:38","slug":"traverse-city-north-coast-rye-bourbon-review-an-unbiased-friendly-take","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/traverse-city-north-coast-rye-bourbon-review-an-unbiased-friendly-take\/","title":{"rendered":"Traverse City North Coast Rye Bourbon Review: An Unbiased, Friendly Take"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>I recently had the chance to taste the Traverse City North Coast Rye bourbon, and I was quite excited to explore its unique blend and flavor profile. This intriguing whiskey is a blend of two different rye products \u2013 one being a straight rye (at least 51% rye) and the other being a 100% rye whiskey. Distilled by Traverse City Whiskey Co., this combination results in a super-high rye content which brings about an interesting tasting experience.<\/p>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" wp-image-10280 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/North-Coast-Rye.png\" alt=\"Traverse City North Coast Rye Bourbon\" width=\"398\" height=\"682\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/North-Coast-Rye.png 584w, https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/North-Coast-Rye-175x300.png 175w, https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/North-Coast-Rye-467x800.png 467w, https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/North-Coast-Rye-150x257.png 150w, https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/North-Coast-Rye-350x599.png 350w, https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/North-Coast-Rye-485x830.png 485w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 398px) 100vw, 398px\" \/>photo credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tcwhiskey.com\/our-products\/north-coast-rye\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.tcwhiskey.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p>As a bourbon enthusiast, I was drawn to the Traverse City North Coast Rye&#8217;s distinct characteristics. The nose presented a mix of corn, grain, orange, and lemon with hints of cedar, making it quite an inviting whiskey. Upon tasting, I discovered sweet lemon and mild cherry flavors as well as some grassy notes. The finish was smooth with vanilla and a touch of oak, making it an overall enjoyable whiskey.<\/p>\n<p>Throughout my experience with the Traverse City North Coast Rye, I found its unique blend of rye whiskeys to be the highlight. The sweet and citrusy notes were balanced well, providing a pleasant sipping experience. So, if you&#8217;re a fan of rye whiskeys or simply looking to try something new, this might just be the perfect bourbon for you.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_67_1 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title \" >Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/traverse-city-north-coast-rye-bourbon-review-an-unbiased-friendly-take\/#Traverse_City_North_Coast_Rye_Bourbon_Overview\" title=\"Traverse City North Coast Rye Bourbon Overview\">Traverse City North Coast Rye Bourbon Overview<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/traverse-city-north-coast-rye-bourbon-review-an-unbiased-friendly-take\/#Tasting_Notes\" title=\"Tasting Notes\">Tasting Notes<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/traverse-city-north-coast-rye-bourbon-review-an-unbiased-friendly-take\/#Mixing_and_Pairing\" title=\"Mixing and Pairing\">Mixing and Pairing<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/traverse-city-north-coast-rye-bourbon-review-an-unbiased-friendly-take\/#Conclusion\" title=\"Conclusion\">Conclusion<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Traverse_City_North_Coast_Rye_Bourbon_Overview\"><\/span><strong>Traverse City North Coast Rye Bourbon Overview<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><strong>Product History<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Traverse City Whiskey Co., located in Traverse City, MI, has crafted a unique rye whiskey called <a href=\"https:\/\/www.tcwhiskey.com\/products\/north-coast-rye\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">North Coast Rye<\/a>. This rye whiskey is a blend of two distinct mash bills: one is 100% rye, and the other is 95% rye with 5% malted barley. Part of the company&#8217;s whiskey lineup, North Coast Rye Bourbon has a minimum age statement of 3 years, showcasing maturity and quality craftsmanship in each bottle.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Price Range<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>North Coast Rye Whiskey is reasonably priced, considering the quality of the product. It&#8217;s available for purchase around $37, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a delicious rye whiskey without breaking the bank.<\/p>\n<p>With a <strong>proof of 90 (45% ABV)<\/strong>, North Coast Rye is perfect for sipping neat or utilizing in a classic cocktail like an Old Fashioned. I cannot help but admire the versatility and quality of this spirit.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Tasting_Notes\"><\/span><strong>Tasting Notes<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><strong>Aroma<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>Upon first nosing the Traverse City North Coast Rye, I immediately picked up on the aroma of oak and caramel sweetness. The pleasant scent of charred oak is followed by a fruitiness from its Michigan origin, including subtle notes of orange peel and stone fruit. The rye spice is present but not overpowering, giving the nose a wholesome balance.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Flavor<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>As I took my first sip, the palate revealed a delightful blend of flavors like butterscotch, dill, pepper, and a hint of apricot. The American rye brings a sense of warmth, while the malted barley showcases the foundation to a unique taste. I also detected a pleasant undertone of mint, plum, and apples, which adds to the complexity of this 90 proof whiskey.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Finish<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>The North Coast Rye&#8217;s finish lingers, offering a medium length experience where the rye grain and rye spice come together in harmony along with charred oak and honey. The spices and lemony citrus persist on the tongue, creating a delectable aftertaste that makes this whiskey memorable.<\/p>\n<h3><strong>Rating<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>In my opinion, the Traverse City North Coast Rye is an enjoyable whiskey with a diverse flavor profile thanks to its Michigan origin and unique grain blend. Despite its 45% ABV, it remains smooth and inviting. I would give this whiskey a solid 4\/5 rating, as it showcases delightful flavors and aromas while maintaining a warm, friendly character.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mixing_and_Pairing\"><\/span><strong>Mixing and Pairing<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><strong>Best Mixers<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p>The distinct citrus notes, particularly orange and lemon, tend to shine through, making it compatible with mixers that emphasize or complement these flavors. Some mixers I recommend trying with this rye whiskey are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Ginger ale or ginger beer: The spicy, zesty flavor of ginger really melds well with the rye and citrus notes.<\/li>\n<li>Club soda or tonic water: For a lighter version that still showcases the whiskey&#8217;s flavors, adding some fizz helps to balance and enhance the experience.<\/li>\n<li>Fresh lemon or orange juice: These fruity components help amplify the citrus qualities in the whiskey, making for a fun, bright cocktail.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><strong>Cocktail Suggestions<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\" wp-image-10281 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Cocktail-Suggestion.jpg\" alt=\"Cocktail Suggestions\" width=\"495\" height=\"619\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Cocktail-Suggestion.jpg 910w, https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Cocktail-Suggestion-240x300.jpg 240w, https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Cocktail-Suggestion-640x800.jpg 640w, https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Cocktail-Suggestion-768x960.jpg 768w, https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Cocktail-Suggestion-150x188.jpg 150w, https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Cocktail-Suggestion-350x438.jpg 350w, https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Cocktail-Suggestion-485x607.jpg 485w, https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Cocktail-Suggestion-655x819.jpg 655w, https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Cocktail-Suggestion-864x1080.jpg 864w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 495px) 100vw, 495px\" \/>photo credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wallpaperflare.com\/fizz-black-boho-glass-orange-juice-whisky-cocktail-beverage-wallpaper-epyxn\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.wallpaperflare.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p>While Traverse City North Coast Rye is surprisingly easy to drink neat or on the rocks, it also lends itself well to cocktails. Here are a few suggestions that I believe maximize this rye whiskey&#8217;s unique character:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Rye Whiskey Sour<\/strong>: Mix 2 oz Traverse City North Coast Rye with 3\/4 oz fresh lemon juice, 3\/4 oz simple syrup, and a dash of bitters. Shake with ice, strain into a glass, and garnish with a lemon twist.<\/li>\n<li><strong>North Coast Old Fashioned<\/strong>: Muddle a sugar cube with a few dashes of bitters and a splash of water in a glass. Add 2 oz Traverse City North Coast Rye and a large ice cube. Stir gently and garnish with an orange twist.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Rye Collins<\/strong>: In a tall glass filled with ice, combine 2 oz Traverse City North Coast Rye, 1 oz fresh lemon juice, and 1\/2 oz simple syrup. Top with club soda, stir gently, and garnish with a lemon wedge.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><strong>Food Pairings<\/strong><\/h3>\n<p style=\"text-align: center;\"><img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"size-full wp-image-10282 aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Food-Pairings.jpeg\" alt=\"Food Pairings\" width=\"735\" height=\"490\" srcset=\"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Food-Pairings.jpeg 735w, https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Food-Pairings-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Food-Pairings-150x100.jpeg 150w, https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Food-Pairings-350x233.jpeg 350w, https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Food-Pairings-485x323.jpeg 485w, https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/07\/Food-Pairings-655x437.jpeg 655w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 735px) 100vw, 735px\" \/>photo credit: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.pexels.com\/photo\/close-up-shot-of-charcuterie-board-13805995\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">www.pexels.com<\/a><\/p>\n<p>When it comes to food pairings, Traverse City North Coast Rye&#8217;s bright citrus notes and mild oak make it versatile for a range of dishes. Some foods I&#8217;d recommend trying with this whiskey are:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Charcuterie boards: A selection of cured meats, aged cheeses, and pickles can play off the whiskey&#8217;s citrus and rye characteristics and provide a nice contrast.<\/li>\n<li>Grilled seafood: Consider pairing this rye whiskey with grilled shrimp, scallops, or white fish, seasoned with lemon and herbs to harmonize with the whiskey&#8217;s flavors.<\/li>\n<li>BBQ dishes: The bold flavors of slow-cooked meats, whether sweet or spicy, can pair well with Traverse City North Coast Rye, as the whiskey&#8217;s citrus notes act as a balancing element to the rich, smoky barbecue flavors.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion\"><\/span><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>I find Traverse City North Coast Rye to be a unique and enjoyable whiskey. The flavors present are light and bright, making this rye stand out among its counterparts. One notable aspect is the blend of two ryes: one 100% rye and the other 95% rye with 5% barley, giving it a distinct character.<\/p>\n<p>Although the whiskey lacks some complexity and maturity due to its time in oak, it does provide a fresh experience, allowing lemon notes to shine through. This aspect may appeal to those who enjoy a whiskey with a touch of novelty. The finish is on the shorter side, but the spicy rye and minty flavors linger just enough to be pleasant.<\/p>\n<p>At a reasonable price of around $37 for a 750ml bottle, I would say it&#8217;s worth giving Traverse City North Coast Rye a try. While it may not be my top choice for rye whiskey, it delivers a solid and approachable rye experience. It is evident that this Michigan-based company has put effort into crafting a high-quality rye whiskey, and I am eager to see how their products evolve over time.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>I recently had the chance to taste the Traverse City North Coast Rye bourbon, and I was quite excited to explore its unique blend and flavor profile. This intriguing whiskey is a blend of two different rye products \u2013 one being a straight rye (at least 51% rye) and the other being a 100% rye whiskey. Distilled by Traverse City Whiskey Co., this combination results &#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":10279,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[230],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10278"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10278"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10278\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":10284,"href":"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10278\/revisions\/10284"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/10279"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10278"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10278"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/thewhiskylady.net\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10278"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}