Alberta Premium Cask Strength Rye is one of the most acclaimed Canadian whiskies of the past decade, and it earns that on substance rather than packaging. It is made from a 100% rye mash, which is genuinely uncommon: most whiskies labelled rye in North America sit anywhere between 51 and 95 percent, with corn or barley making up the rest. Alberta Distillers in Calgary has specialised in rye for decades and works with prairie rye grown close to the distillery, using its own proprietary yeast. This release is bottled at cask strength, undiluted, at 65.1% ABV, a full 130.2 proof, and the strength varies from release to release. It pours a warm golden amber. The nose is bright and assertive, with dry rye spice, clove and cinnamon over caramel, vanilla and toffee, lifted by orchard fruit. The palate is dense and oily, delivering peppery rye, baking spice and dark fruit alongside brown sugar and toasted oak, with a depth and viscosity that only full strength bottling preserves. The finish is long, warm and spice driven, closing on seasoned wood and lingering sweetness. At this proof a few drops of water or a large cube open it considerably without flattening the rye character. It is excellent neat for anyone who enjoys a dry, spicy pour, and it makes a formidable Manhattan or Old Fashioned. Presented in a faceted bottle with a matching gift box.
ABV / Proof
| ABV |
65.1%- Varies |
| Proof |
130.2 - Varies |
| Size |
750ml |
| Country |
Canada |
| Region |
Alberta |
| Type |
Canadian Rye Whisky, Cask Strength |
| Mashbill |
100% rye |
| Edition |
Limited Edition |
| Strength |
Cask strength, undiluted |
| Producer |
Alberta Distillers, Calgary |
| Packaging |
Presentation box included |
Tasting Notes
Colour: Warm golden amber.
Nose: Dry rye spice, clove and cinnamon over caramel, vanilla and toffee with orchard fruit.
Palate: Dense and oily, with peppery rye, baking spice, dark fruit, brown sugar and toasted oak.
Finish: Long and warm, with seasoned wood and lingering sweetness.
FAQ
What proof is this release?
This bottling is 65.1% ABV, which is 130.2 proof. Cask strength releases vary, so check the label on each bottle.
Is it really 100% rye?
Yes. It is made from a 100% rye mash, which is uncommon even among whiskies labelled rye.
What does cask strength mean?
The whisky is bottled undiluted at the strength it came out of the barrel, preserving its full texture and intensity.
Where is it made?
At Alberta Distillers in Calgary, Canada, using prairie rye grown near the distillery.
How should I drink it?
Neat first, then a few drops of water or a large ice cube. It also makes an excellent Manhattan or Old Fashioned.
Where can I buy Alberta Premium Cask Strength Rye online?
Available here at Liquor On Broadway while stock lasts, with fast insured shipping nationwide.
