Willett Family Estate 4yr Rye Vs. Pinhook Rye’d On

I have been greatly looking forward to trying the first products to come out of the Castle and Key distillery, and I thought I would pit it against one of my favorites.
These are both very unique rye whiskeys in the $45 range. The Willett is 4yrs old while the Pinhook is “more than 2yrs” old.

Willett: On the nose, there is oak, cardamom, cinnamon, and tropical fruit. The palate has more baking spices, tropical fruit, plus vanilla-oak, herbal, and floral notes. Great complexity! Mild burn, decently long, spicy finish. This is one of my all-time favorite drams!

Pinhook: The nose is more astringent, with strong floral notes. On the palate, the mouthfeel is definitely young and thin, but the flavors are dynamite. Very floral, fruity, with spiced candy. The finish is short/thin. I think another 2-years in the barrel, and barrel-proof would make this a world-class rye. I will definitely be trying to buy everything Castle and Key releases!

As of right now, if I only had $45 to spend, I would pick up Willett 4yr Rye. But my advice to you is keep an eye on Pinhook!!