Journeyman Not A King is a handmade organic rye whiskey from Journeyman Distillery in Three Oaks, Michigan, bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV).
Not A King is a tribute to George Washington, who was not only America's first president but also one of its first distillers. After his victory over the British he was celebrated by the masses as the first King of America, and he famously answered that he was not a king. The whiskey is a limited release made available on Presidents Day each year. It is single distilled from a mash of 60% organic rye, 35% organic corn and 5% organic barley, and each batch is blended to profile. The label carries Washington's portrait in his tricorn hat, and the bottling has earned a Double Gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
The flavor offers hints of sweet honey and a fruity accent over a creamy, buttery body, with caramel, banana and burnt sugar.
Its presidential portrait label makes it a great gift for history buffs and rye fans.
American rye whiskey is made from a mash of at least 51% rye and aged in new charred oak, giving it a spicier, drier character than bourbon, with notes of pepper, herbs and baking spice.
A splash of water brings out more of the honey and banana.
Rye-forward mash bills give a gentle spice that balances the sweetness.
It makes a lively Manhattan with sweet vermouth and bitters.
Serve it neat in a rocks glass to enjoy its creamy texture.
It is a fun bottle to open on Presidents Day.
Pair it with a cheese board to bring out the caramel notes.
Tasting Notes
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Character: Sweet honey, fruity accent.
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Body: Creamy and buttery.
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Palate: Caramel, banana, burnt sugar.
Specifications
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Distillery: Journeyman Distillery, Three Oaks, Michigan
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Style: Organic rye whiskey, limited release
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Mash Bill: 60% organic rye, 35% organic corn, 5% organic barley
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Distillation: Single distillation, blended to profile
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Proof / ABV: 90 proof (45% ABV)
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Region: Michigan, USA
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Sip it neat or on a large cube, or stir it into a Manhattan or Old Fashioned. It pairs with glazed ham, apple pie or aged cheddar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is it named for?
George Washington, who famously said he was not a king.
What is the mash bill?
60% organic rye, 35% organic corn and 5% organic barley.
When is it released?
Each year on Presidents Day.
Explore more in our Rye collection.
