Rod & Hammer's SLO Stills Cask Rye is a barrel-strength straight rye whiskey from San Luis Obispo, California, made from a 95% rye mash and bottled unfiltered at 112 proof (56% ABV).
SLO Stills is the San Luis Obispo craft distillery behind Rod & Hammer's, and its bottles proudly read California and SLO Made. Cask Rye is the most powerful expression in the portfolio, designed for the serious whiskey enthusiast, and it won Double Gold with 96 points at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
The whiskey is made from 95% rye and 5% malted barley and aged two years in new American white oak barrels. It is bottled at barrel strength, unfiltered and undiluted, so the pure intensity of the barrel comes through.
Because it is bottled at cask strength, the flavors are concentrated and robust: bold rye spice and pepper on the nose, caramel sweetness and baking spice on the palate, and a long finish with a hint of smoke.
Rod & Hammer's Cask Rye rewards a slow pour. Sip it neat, then add a few drops of water or a single large ice cube to open up the caramel and spice. Its high proof makes it a superb backbone for a Manhattan, a Sazerac or a Vieux Carré, where it holds its own against vermouth and bitters, and it makes a bold Old Fashioned with demerara syrup. Pair it with smoked brisket, grilled steak, aged gouda, dark chocolate or a slice of pecan pie. For rye fans and California craft lovers, it is a standout gift and a great bottle to share with friends who like big flavor.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Bold rye spice, pepper.
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Palate: Caramel sweetness, baking spice.
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Finish: Long, hint of smoke.
Specifications
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Distillery: SLO Stills, San Luis Obispo, California
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Mash bill: 95% rye, 5% malted barley
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Aging: 2 years, new American white oak
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Style: Barrel-strength straight rye, unfiltered
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Proof / ABV: 112 proof (56% ABV)
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Sip it neat with a few drops of water, or stir a Manhattan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mash bill?
95% rye and 5% malted barley.
How strong is it?
112 proof (56% ABV), barrel strength.
Has it won awards?
Yes, Double Gold with 96 points at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Explore more in our Rye collection.
