O.H.-Ingram-River-Aged-Straight-Rye; Hank Ingram; straight rye bottle, liquor; O.H. Ingram Straight whiskey

Whiskey Review: O.H. Ingram River Aged Straight Rye

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was provided to us as a review sample by Brown Water Spirits. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review. It should also be noted that by clicking the buy link towards the bottom of this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.

I am thrilled to revisit the floating rickhouse on the Mississippi riverbank, where O.H. Ingram and Brown Water Spirits have delivered the next in the delicious Ingram River Aged Series.

The first of the series, O.H. Ingram River Aged Straight Whiskey, was released in October 2020 to a response that, as proprietor Hank Ingram said, “has been far beyond what I could’ve possibly imagined…Whiskey lovers have been able to experience the taste created by our unique aging process.”

O.H. Ingram River Aged Straight Rye is the next in the series and, dare I say, even better than the first. Featuring a higher corn mashbill, the accelerated aging process resulting from the rise and fall of the Mississippi River ensures a mellow maturation.

It is understandable that whiskey lovers may be skeptical of non-traditional aging processes. However, the makers of O.H. Ingram River Aged Straight Rye believe strongly in their methods. Ingram’s history in the barge business gave him the idea for putting the barrels on the river. The unique quality of the spirit after interacting in such an active way with the wood provides a pleasurable mouthfeel and smooth finish.

By utilizing the motion of the river, the expansive diurnal shifts, and the humidity of the river, the spirit is able to draw out a well-seasoned taste that is distinctive to the O.H. Ingram brand.

The third in the series will be a Wheated Bourbon and is slated for release late this year. I, for one, am incredibly excited to witness the mark O.H. Ingram will make on the industry.

In an ever-growing world of niche distillers and trendy brands, the O.H. Ingram River Aged Series stands out as a special whiskey sure to impress seasoned whiskey drinkers everywhere.

Tasting Notes: O.H. Ingram River Aged Straight Rye

Vital Stats: 98 Proof. 49% ABV.

Appearance: The whiskey has clean, thin legs, and boasts a deep amber color that looks as rich as it tastes. The label is a handsome dark red, showcasing the barge of the floating rickhouse.

Nose: There is a strong, sweet cherry blossom scent, mixing smoothly with an earthy hay and the faint whiff of caramel.

Palate: What an absolute delight. Though this doesn’t immediately stand out as a strong rye, it is incredibly smooth and buttery. I enjoyed a light, fluttery tingle across the palate that melted into a warm buzz. There are notes of cherry and a sweet/bitter element of almond. The finish is smokey and slightly fruity, with a spicy undertone throughout the tasting.

The Takeaway

Summary

This is by far one of my favorite tastings. The whiskey is an almost juicy sipper, goes down easy and could easily find a place at the top of my recommendation list. I’d like to slip it in my coffee on a sunny morning by the river. 5 stars.