Templeton unveils flagship straight rye

American whiskey brand Templeton has launched a new straight rye flagship expression, which honours the brand's Prohibition roots.

The 'full-bodied' expression has been tailored to meet the growing demand for rye in the craft cocktail scene and for whiskey enthusiasts. Made with a mash bill comprising 95% rye and 5% malted barley, the whiskey has been aged for a minimum of four years in first-fill American oak barrels. It is bottled at the Templeton Distillery in Templeton, Iowa. The expression displays aromas of vanilla, pineapple, toasted oak and spice, followed on the palate by notes of ripe cherries, dark chocolate and a touch of honey with cinnamon and black pepper on the finish. Bottled at 45% ABV, Templeton Straight Rye is non-chill-filtered and retails for US$29.99. “As we continue to evolve from an independent bottler to a distiller, our robust innovation pipeline will ensure we continue to meet the evolving tastes of our consumers,” said Lester Brown, head distiller at Templeton Distillery. “This bold and complex expression reflects our dedication to crafting full-flavoured, high-quality rye whiskey, inspired by our storied history in rye whiskey making and fit for today’s whiskey lover. We’re thrilled to invite both long-time fans and newcomers to experience this newest expression of Templeton." The new addition to the distillery's core range will roll out nationwide in the US this month (November), including at BevMo, Total Wine & More, and Hy-Vee. For the festive season, Templeton will offer a limited edition Templeton Straight Rye Whiskey x Starlino Cherries holiday gift set. The brand's portfolio includes Fortitude Bourbon and a wide range of rye whiskies, such as Midnight Rye and age-statement expressions. Earlier this year, Templeton expanded its distribution into new markets, including the Czech Republic, Poland, Germany, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Kazakhstan and Israel. Templeton is owned by San Diego-based spirits company Infinium Spirits and opened its Iowa-based distillery in 2018, complete with a visitor centre and museum.