LDI 1988 Barrel Proof 23 Year Old Rye

LDI 1988 Barrel Proof 23-Year-Old Rye is a rare and highly sought-after whiskey. It was distilled in 1988 by Seagram Lawrenceburg (now MGP) and bottled in 2011 by LDI. This whiskey is barrel proof, meaning that it was bottled without any added water or filtration. This gives the whiskey a rich and full-bodied flavor profile.

This 1988 vintage whiskey was distilled by Seagram using a mashbill of 95% rye. It was bottled in 2011 to commemorate the LDI era, which ran from July 2007 until December 2011. Unusually labeled with "thanks for being part of the success," this was gifted to the staff prior to the takeover by MGP. Less than 300 bottles of this rye exist and it remains one of the most sought-after, known "friends & family" bottles ever released.

Nose: An aromatic mix of baked rye bread, deep caramel, aged leather, and a whiff of wood smoke. As it breathes, nuances of dried dark fruits and a hint of tobacco emerge, painting a vivid portrait of its age.

Palate: The initial sip reveals a symphony of flavors. Spicy rye notes dance harmoniously with dark chocolate, toasted oak, and a touch of citrus zest. Mid-palate, there's an evolution to sweeter tones of maple syrup, complemented by an underlying warmth of black pepper and clove.

Finish: A long, resonating finish characterized by its spicy warmth, notes of dried fruits, and a lingering presence of oaky vanilla and leather.

LDI 1988 Barrel Proof Rye is a whiskey that demands contemplation. Enjoy it with smoked meats like brisket or ribs, where its smoky undertones align perfectly. Alternatively, dark chocolate truffles or a rich cheesecake can contrast and complement the rye's spicy and sweet notes, making for a delightful dessert pairing.