52 Eighty Distilling Cackler’s Whiskey

52 Eighty Distilling out of Littleton, CO was established in 2017, and produces a few different spirits. The Cackler’s Whiskey caught our attention because it is a “blend of Rye Bourbon.” One of them is a 1 year old 36% Rye Bourbon, and the other is a 6 month old Rye Bourbon, which is an accelerated aged whiskey.

Color: Pale Straw and clear, almost an apple juice like color.

Nose: Lots of honey with hints of rye and damp earth.

Palate: Lots of honey and rye, this is a mellow and sweet sip that is light bodied. There is some cinnamon type spice in there, but a very sweet flavor.

Finish: A short but very smooth finish. Some earthy notes hit the back of the palate. A bit of creamy flavored vanilla and rye.

With Water:

Nose: Some toffee notes come through, with an earthy hay smell still being predominant.

Palate: Lighter bodied than before with even more honey, yet somehow not sweeter. Butter toffee, caramel and oak notes all come through.

Finish: Tons of honey that feels like it coats the entire mouth then disappears quickly. The little bit of lingering flavors after the honey are some rye spices and sweet dried fruit.

Ratings:
Angela: 87
Zach: 80
Overall: 83.5

This is definitely a unique take on bourbon. The “accelerated aging” really seems to have an effect on the sip. It is clean, easy drinking, and really a great summer sipper.