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