J.T. Meleck Rice Whiskey at 48% ABV, mash bill: 100% Louisiana-grown rice, SRP — at $47/ 750ml bottle, the question is whether it delivers on its promise. I sat down with a pour to find out.
Nose
This whiskey is pale golden brown in color.
Palate
At first muted, this whiskey off notes of freshly baked banana bread. On revisiting, this reminds me of caramel baked goods like crusty blonde brownies and cherry pie.
Finish
I wasn’t sure what to expect from an all-rice whiskey, but it certainly wasn’t the spiced blueberry notes I picked up. It reminds me of rye, but with a unique fruity twist. Though this lacks somewhat in complexity, it has an all around appealing sense. I can see this as an excellent mixer, especially since it does better with a dash of water or over ice.
The Bottom Line
J.T. Meleck Rice Whiskey is a perfectly respectable whiskey that does what it sets out to do. At $47/ 750ml bottle, the value is reasonable — it will not blow your mind, but it will not disappoint you either. A reliable choice.