Wigle Whiskey, out of Pittsburgh, PA, traces its roots to the Whiskey Rebellion that occurred in Western Pennsylvania in the 1794. Wigle derives its name from Phillip Wigle, a late 19th century distiller. The story goes that Mr. Wigle got into a fight with a tax collector over his right to distill whiskey, and ultimately formed one of the sparks that led to the rebellion. Though sentenced to hang for his misdeeds, George Washington ultimately pardoned Mr. Wigle. Moreover, the whiskey largely distilled in this region of the country (and that of Mr. Wigle) was called Monongahela Rye after a local river. It’s this background that Wigle looks to capture. Today, we look at their rye expression with the Wigle Whiskey Pennsylvania Straight Rye review.

Wigle Rye consists of a mash bill of 68% regional rye, 18% regional wheat, and 14% malted barley. All ingredients are purportedly organic, making this an organic whiskey. Aged for 2 years in 25 gallon new charred oak barrels and distilled in a traditional pot still, this rye clocks in at 84 proof (42% ABV). This information comes primarily from my bottle (batch/bottle #88 446/1234). According the website, Wigle Rye also ages for 3 to 4 years in 53 gallon barrels. With all the details out of the way, on to the rating.

Bottle and Appearance

In the bottle, this rye exhibits a red chestnut coloring with a mild haze throughout. In the glass, it lightens slightly but largely retains its same character. Giving it a swirl produces a moderate viscosity, with uniform, slow legs that nicely roll down the glass. The bottle itself provides enough information regarding the whiskey inside so as appear forthright. This last part always serves up and coming or regional distilleries well, and is highly welcome.

Nose

Lifting Wigle Rye to the nose produces a drying effect along with cereal notes immediately popping out. Rye along with wheat bran topped by brown sugar form the character of this mixture. Shifting from the grainy to the sweet, dark berry tones emerge alternating between blueberries and huckleberries. The nose ultimately comes across a little light and uncomplicated, but pleasant nonetheless. It feels a bit like breakfast. (Note: Whiskey Rising mostly never recommends whiskey for breakfast.)

Palate

Moving along to the mouth, Wigle Rye kicks up a mild astringency in terms of effect. The malted barley leads off the taste profile, and quickly gives way to rye pepper spice. Interestingly, this spice produces some real heat that would clock in on the Scoville Scale – maybe somewhere between a Poblano and Anaheim pepper. Tobacco and dill, which often arise in rye, accompany the spice. Wigle Rye produces an oily feel in the mouth along with a mild butter flavor reminiscent of ghee. This ultimately creates a suitable rye body with a decent chew factor, but feels light with the exception of the spice.

Finish

Into the finish, the rye really shines through and momentarily dominates the experience. A rubber note does appear, but only long enough to be noticed. The experience settles into and lingers with a distinct ginger bread sensation. This ending maintains the spiciness from the palate, and carries it to conclusion.

Drinkability

This rye whiskey works neat or on the rocks. Splashing a touch of water in brings the spicy, oily nature to the forefront – a bit like drinking a Korean hot sauce.

This whiskey should be carried on long mountain climbs in the dead of winter to provide protection against the cold. In fact, this whiskey suits the keg of a St. Bernard alpine mountain rescue dog.

Food Paring

Serve meatloaf with Wigle Rye whiskey. Most people like meatloaf, but generally only if it’s covered in ketchup, bacon, hot sauce, etc. This rye provides that same level of kick that would spice up an otherwise bland yet satisfying dinner.

Facial Hair Rating

Wigle Rye receives the Painters Brush Facial Hair Rating. A little bohemian and a little blue collar, it’s between an artist and a worker while not really being either. It’s like the corporate bond lawyer that spends all free time on reading 18th century French poetry. Nothing wrong with a hobby, but not quite the all-in embrace that both yearn for.

Overall

To conclude the Wigle Whiskey Pennsylvania Straight Rye review – mild whiskey with heavy spice. The whiskey does a lot of good things, just a little too softly. The heavy spice jumps out and makes you take notice. Beyond that, however, it’s a bit of a fishing expedition. The flavors are good, they just land glancing blows as opposed to knockout punches. This may be in part due to the 84 proof – a little low for an otherwise premium whiskey. Nevertheless, the body works with a moderate chew factor and many of the classic rye notes (such as tobacco and dill) do appear. It’s a very good whiskey that could be excellent. I’d like to see them turn the volume from 4 up to 10 and unleash the potential.

Final Grade: B

Here is an overview of our proprietary Rating System. Please share your thoughts below, or a story that whiskey has told you by reaching out to us on our contact page.