The Intoxicologist Is In

(ri)1, pronounced “rye one”, is not only impressive in stature with its sleek bottling, but better yet it is remarkable in taste.  It is only recently that I have had the pleasure of sampling rye whiskey for the first time.  In doing so I found an astounding difference between the two ryes.  Both are excellent, yet unique.  One has been around for years.  It somehow actually had the feel and taste of the past in the flavor.  In the same way, (ri)1 carries with it the feel of modern, cutting edge sophistication while maintaining the classic rye whiskey tradition.    I am perplexed at the way master distillers can achieve this level of perfection and diversity within the spirit they craft.

The introduction of Beam Global Spirits & Wine to the rye whiskey market with (ri)1 is bold and brilliant.  The cocktail world abounds with mixologists crafting specialty drinks in small niche bars, extravagant upscale lounges in large market areas and in long thought out bartender competitions sponsored by beverage companies looking to increase their recipe book, broaden their name recognition and seeking the best qualified person to become their new brand ambassador.  Cocktail drinkers search for something more when they look through the liquor aisle, a cocktail book or pull up a seat at the bar.  When the bartender asks “What’ll you have?” the contemporary consumer looks to broaden their horizons with something out of the ordinary, ultra-premium and stylish.  While taste should always be our first consideration, we are all guided in part by the impression we create by the drink we hold in our hand.  With (ri)1 the best of both worlds are fulfilled.  The flavor is impeccable and the creators of (ri)1 have given the consumer the look of cutting edge style that keeps up with cocktail couture.

 (ri)1 presents a soothing  balance of peppery rye and dried fruit in the aroma.  It is here in the scent that the hints of sophisticated innovation set (ri)1 apart from the other rye whiskey I had in comparison.  This is not prohibition era rye, yet it is authentic rye whiskey created for the modern consumer.  The gentleness in the scent speaks to the complexity of crafting the old and new together into this ultra-premium product.  Once (ri)1 is diluted with a bit of water the fragrance changes bringing other characteristics of the spirit to the forefront.  Spice becomes more evident, but never overwhelming.  With the first sip to the last, (ri)1 is delicate on the palate.  It never comes across as heavy.  As I tasted neat, the feel is dry with notes of light sweetness rounding out the warming edges.  Diluted, (ri)1 maintains the warmth and peppery tones of the rye, but adds in a little more of the fruit notes carried deep inside.  Either way one chooses to sip, the finish lingers satisfyingly. 

In my opinion neat or on the rocks is the best way to enjoy (ri)1.  Every aspect of the spirit is available to the palate with its gentle richness, warmth and spice.  However, the classic Manhattan is always in style.  With (ri)1 a new flavor dimension has been added.  A Manhattan may be enjoyed on the rocks or in a martini glass depending on your preference.  The Rising Sun is original, yet may not be the best cocktail for (ri)1.  This cocktail turned out too sour for my taste with the (ri)1 flavor buried beneath the tartness of the juice.  However, the splendor of this premium (ri)1 spirit is there are not only plenty of cocktails demanding to be created, but Beam Global Spirits & Wine already have plans for future variants.  (ri)2 and (ri)3 are planned to complete the product line.  That is a palate tempting thought to mull over. 

On the Rocks

Rising Sun

Rising Sun

1/2 part (ri)1 Whiskey

1/2 part Lemon Juice

1/2 part Orange Juice

Combine all three ingredients together in a cocktail shaker and pour over ice.  (My photo shows the Rising Sun shaken and strained into a cocktail glass rather than served over ice.)

Manhattan

2 parts (ri)1 Whiskey

1/2 part Sweet Vermouth

1/2 part Dry Vermouth

1 Dash Bitters

Pour ingredients into cocktail shaker filled with ice.  Shake well, strain into chilled Manhattan glass and garnish with a maraschino cherry.

For more information about (ri)1 visit www.ri1whiskey.com.

www.beamglobal.com

www.drinksmart.com

www.jimbeam.com