Nose
The nose of Stellum Serpens Single Barrel Rye starts very rye-forward with mild cinnamon, but after some time and after taking a few sips, a very creamy caramel green apple and molasses come to the fore. A wonderful aroma; you know, that viscous buttercream thickness.
If you let the glass sit for a minute or so after taking a few sips, there is a little bit of dark dried fruits on the nose.
Palate
Stellum Serpens Single Barrel Rye has a very traditional rye profile of 95% sourced rye, but its oiliness makes it unique. Rye spice, mint, creamy molasses, and black pepper. Drinks right on its proof level. 111.92 proof MGP with no age statement. Buttery, with a honey apple sweetness. It is a little on the younger side because it does not have a thick, creamy character depth and runs hot. However, it has a solid traditional rye palate with brown sugar on the mid-palate and beyond. Interestingly, after I let the glass sit for a couple minutes and then went back to it, there was a little bit of saltiness on the palate. After that, spearmint.
Finish
The finish of Stellum Serpens Single Barrel Rye features rye spice and black pepper that lingers hot and moderately long on the back of the throat.
Final Thoughts
As mentioned earlier, Stellum Serpens Single Barrel Rye is a traditional, straightforward, but tasty rye. However, this whiskey would be better suited for use in a cocktail. It is limited as a neat drinker.