The Ross & Squibb Distillery, located in Indiana, has a rich history that reflects the evolution of American whiskey production. Originally established in 1847, the distillery was initially known as the "Shively Distillery." It played a significant role in the development of the whiskey industry in the region.
Over the years, the distillery changed ownership and names several times. In the early 2000s, it was acquired by MGP Ingredients, a company known for producing high-quality grain-based products. As you may or may not know, MGP has been a key player in the whiskey market, supplying whiskey to various brands and distilleries across the United States.
The name "Ross & Squibb" pays homage to two influential figures in the distillery's history. Ross refers to the late 19th-century distiller, Ross E. McCarty, while Squibb honors the Squibb family, who were involved in the distillery’s operations during its early years. The rebranding to Ross & Squibb Distillery in 2021 marked a significant moment in the distillery's history, celebrating its heritage while also looking toward the future.
Today, Ross & Squibb is known for producing a variety of spirits, including bourbon and rye whiskey. They focus on crafting high-quality products with a commitment to traditional distilling methods, while also embracing innovation. Their location in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, is significant as it is part of the historic whiskey corridor in the state, which has a legacy of producing some of the finest spirits in America.
If you're on the hunt for a rye that doesn’t break the bank but still delivers a solid experience, look no further than their Seven Sons Straight Rye. This little gem has a lot to offer, especially if you like the idea of a whiskey that balances sweet, spicy, and affordability. I recently found this on the shelf and, knowing how much I enjoy Indiana ryes, decided to try it out. Here are my thoughts.
🥃90 Proof
🥃Age: NAS, but aged at least 4 Years
🥃Origin: Dustilled and aged in Indiana
🥃Mashbill: 95% Rye, 5% Malted Barley
🥃Tasted in a Copita Whiskey Tasting glass
Appearance
First off, let’s talk about the look. Pouring it into my glass, I notice a deep, dark amber hue that catches the light beautifully. It’s got these long, thin legs that cling to the glass when I tip it, hinting at a nice mouthfeel ahead.
Nose
As I bring the glass to my nose, I’m greeted with a delightful mix of mint and cinnamon that dances around with some baking spices. There’s something cozy about it, almost like walking into a kitchen where someone’s just whipped up a fresh batch of cookies. Beneath that initial spice kick, I find warm notes of caramel and toasted oak, which adds a lovely depth to the aroma.
Palate
When I take that first sip, the sweet caramel takes center stage—it's like a warm hug for my taste buds. This rye has a bit of a personality. As it unfolds, I start to notice the nutmeg and the subtle crunch of walnuts coming through, adding a nice complexity. Just when I think it’s settled, that familiar black pepper sneaks in at the end, bringing the whole experience full circle.
Finish
The finish is medium-long, with that black pepper slowly fading away, leaving me with the lingering sweetness of caramel. It’s a satisfying goodbye that makes me want to reach for another sip.
Overall, Seven Sons Straight Rye is an easy drinker that surprises you with its caramel sweetness, while still keeping those classic rye notes front and center. For an inexpensive bottle that you can enjoy neat or in a cocktail, it definitely holds its own. I’d give it a solid 3.7 out of 5 ⭐️s. So, if you're looking for a rye that’s friendly on the wallet but still packs a flavorful punch, this could be your new go-to!
Keep on sippin’, my friends! 🥃
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