It should come as no surprise that I love a good cocktail. I’ve been to some great venues in the city for (and written about) thought-provoking, complex and layered drinks that walk the line between ‘superb evening’ and ‘life-changing night out’. What I find just as interesting as the rinds, the zests, the infused this, the pickled that, and the other dizzying array of garnishes are the complementing secondary alcohols. The liqueurs, the syrups, the dash of aperitifs and the splashes of digestifs all in the name of mixology harmony are just wonderful to experience and pinpoint as they blend with the star. For with all the glad tidings in a highball or flute, it’s the star that begins it all. It’s the star that steals my heart (not to mention my taste buds). This star is Templeton Rye Whiskey.
So it was that time of year for a Friendsgiving in Brooklyn which meant some very important decisions. Of course, I was bringing a spirit as part of my culinary participation, but what spirit should I choose. I had a lovely Kentucky bourbon whiskey and a bottle of Templeton Rye Whiskey, the pride of Templeton, Iowa. Well, I brought both to the affair and clearly one was the star.
Templeton Rye Whiskey, the host-appointed star, captured that title for this very simple reason. The presence of the rye takes away that sweet notes that can sometimes define the flavor of a bourbon whiskey. Now while preference is always in the tastebuds of the beholder, on this day with all the sweet cranberries, candied yams, sweet potato and pecan pies and ambrosia salad remixes, the smoother rye-based Templeton offered up a more round and mellow flavor for a distinguished and crisp finish. Interestingly enough, I enjoyed my glass of Templeton Rye neat and easily sipped away at delightful bursts of subtle spiciness with an herbal grain-like under-note as I laid back with a full belly and great cocktail in hand. How also wonderfully fitting that Templeton Rye Whiskey also serves as a great digestif as well.
Templeton Rye Whiskey is available now at your finer Wine, Spirit and Alcohol retailers and as always please remember to drink responsibly!
