Is Minor Case Rye the Perfect Intro to Kentucky-Style Rye?

This pour started with a cork pop and turned into a conversation that blurred the lines between rye and bourbon.

In this episode, we try Minor Case Sherry Cask Finished Rye — a rye whiskey that brings the sweetness of sherry with the warmth of Kentucky-style grains. Helen and Dave dive into mash bills, argue about what counts as a bourbon, and compare the grassy, peppery ryes to this softer, sweeter alternative.

It’s not a bourbon… but it’s close. We explain why.

You’ll hear why Dave’s not a fan of heavy rye spice, what Helen loves about sherry-finished drams, and where Minor Case fits in the bourbon-to-rye spectrum.

Oh, and there’s a cork pop moment we’ve waited ages for.

 

Chapters:

• 00:00 – Finally… a proper cork pop!

• 00:12 – Pouring Minor Case Rye (sherry cask finish)

• 01:00 – What is a Kentucky-style rye?

• 02:00 – 51% rye, 45% corn, 4% malted barley: close to bourbon

• 03:10 – Why it tastes smoother than other ryes

• 04:15 – Sherry cask influence on the nose and palate

• 05:20 – Dave’s take: too grassy = no thanks

• 06:30 – Bourbon vs rye: what’s in a name?

• 07:45 – Sweet graininess and how it compares to others

• 08:50 – Helen’s love of the softer, fruitier notes

• 09:40 – Wrap-up and final thoughts