Bayou Single Barrel
Bayou isn’t a distillery I had come across before. So, when a friend kindly bought me a bottle as a present, it was a great opportunity to explore something outside of my usual style.
Made from locally grown sugarcane from Southern Louisiana and aged in rye barrels, I really didn’t know what to expect when sitting down with this.
Facts & Figures.
ABV: 40%
Country: Louisiana, USA
Age: 2.5 years
Cask: Rye Whiskey
Still: Copper Pot
Price: £49
Distillery: Bayou Rum Distillery
On the nose.
The rye whisky is definitely present here but not as dominant as I would have expected. There’s some inherent spice from white pepper, oak and some tannins. Honey sweetness compliments the spices nicely also a taste of some banana cake. A subtle fresh cane influence is present also.
On the palate.
Initially, a banana milkshake from McDonald’s jumps out but it quickly evolves into acidic sugar cane fibre alongside green apple. The rye influence adds character and complexity with a drying, spicy mouthfeel. Some tartness that softens towards the finish, leaving behind slightly sweeter stewed fruits.
5/10 – An interesting profile I struggled to fully unpack. Not my favourite style but an enjoyable change.
My scoring system, explained
- 10: Exceptional. This is best in class and a firm favourite of mine.
- 9: Outstanding. Near perfection, a bottle I would be sad to finish (and very happy to restock!)
- 8: Excellent. An evening spent sipping this would be a very good one.
- 7: Great. Add to cart, no questions asked.
- 6: Very good. At the right price I would definitely buy a bottle.
- 5: Good. If someone poured me a glass you wouldn’t hear me complain.
- 4: Above average. Not quite good but better than some.
- 3: Average. Average at best, this isn’t offensive but equally not exciting either.
- 2: Not for me. This simply means it’s not a profile I find enjoyable; rather than a reflection of quality.
- 1: Not the spirit. This is a poor representation of the spirit.
