A release like this feels almost unbelievable. I get excited any time we taste something special from a brand that’s new to us, but when it also has 10 years of age and no one’s talking about it? That’s just preposterous.
Woody Creek Distillers is a grain-to-glass distillery based in Colorado, founded in 2012 by Mary and Pat Scanlan and Mark Kleckner. They grow or locally source 100% of their grains and potatoes, distilling everything in custom CARL copper stills. While they may be known to some for their award-winning vodka and gin, their whiskey, particularly this rye, deserves your attention.
Their limited 2024 William H. Macy Reserve Rye is a 10-year-old, 100% Colorado Bottled-in-Bond rye with barrels hand-selected by actor William H. Macy himself. Until recently, Woody Creek has flown under the radar with distribution mostly in Western and Mountain states, explaining why this gem has stayed hidden.
When I first tasted this rye, I couldn’t put it down. It’s bold yet creamy, layered with mature nuance and a mouthfeel that reminds me of pours like Michter's 10 Rye and Sazerac 18.
Woody Creek Distillers 10-Year William H. Macy Reserve Rye Whiskey
The nose is damp yet refined - vanilla, apple, raisin, mint, and peppered sugars over soft, mature oak.
The palate is intense and dialed up for the age, with dark fruit, creamy chocolate, mint muddled with sugar, and mossy oak. The texture is what is highlighted most here, plush while remaining full of flavor and complex - ideal for fans of world whiskies.
The finish has lingering citrus oils, raisin, honey, candied almond, and gently smoked baking spices.
If you're looking for a true sleeper rye, one with age, elegance, and a distinct sense of place, don’t sleep on this one.
