I have been looking forward to getting my hands on Redwood Empire Emerald Giant Cask Strength Rye Whiskey 2023. Bottled at 58.2% ABV) and priced at $70, it promises genuine character.
Nose
Spicy anise is prominent with herbal flavors of sage and lavender building outward on the nose. A faint hint of bitter yet fruity lemon rind finds its way into the mix.
Palate
The Redwood Empire Emerald Giant Rye Whiskey 2023 release is pretty well rounded, with less of the intense spice on the palate than I am used to for the grain. It is very approachable for beginners (with a bit of water), as the intensity of a rye can have an off-putting effect on those who have only drank bourbon. rnrnHowever, within the rye category, this whiskey doesn’t bring anything that sets it apart from the other trees around it, which is a problem in a survival-of-the-fittest world.
Finish
Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by Whiskeyful or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.
The Bottom Line
Redwood Empire Emerald Giant Cask Strength Rye Whiskey 2023 is fine — not bad, not great, just fine. At $70, I think there are better options in this range if you are willing to look around.
