Finally. Another Rye!

You might point out that the Rittenhouse barrels were just released, but let’s be honest- that’s a 100-proof workhorse. A utilitarian rye. This expression is something entirely different.

ALCTD has always been a massive advocate for rye whiskies, and this bottle is no exception. During the annual 2025 ALCTD Kentucky trip, Ylli and Long didn’t originally have a rye pick lined up. But they knew if they were going to do one, it had to be Wilderness Trail. Pound for pound, Wilderness Trail’s sweet-mash rye bill showcases an incredible balance that stands out in the extreme spectrum of Kentucky ryes.

The mission was simple: find an everyday drinker with true depth of flavor- one that didn't shout too loudly with standard notes of dill, spearmint, grass, or aggressive baking spice. When the sample barrels were pulled, Ylli and Long were in heaven. Honestly, if bourbon didn't rule the State of Alaska, they probably would have walked out with three different rye casks.

Ultimately, the barrel that took home the final rose was the one that perfectly embodied their vision of the ultimate everyday rye: beautifully laced with rich cherry notes while remaining fiercely true to the raw cereal grain.