Review: Dad’s Hat Bottled in Bond Rye (2024)

In the early years of the United States, many American farmers regarded the distillation of rye whiskey at home as a basic right. When the federal government imposed an excise tax on whiskey in 1791, these farmers strongly opposed the measure, with some even threatening to secede from the Union. This conflict, known as the Whiskey Rebellion, was ultimately unsuccessful, but it underscored the significance of rye whiskey in the nation’s formative years.

Rye whiskey remained widely produced and consumed well into the early 20th century. The enactment of the 18th Amendment in 1920 and the start of Prohibition, however, dealt a major blow to Pennsylvania’s rye whiskey industry. During this time, bootleggers produced a blended imitation under the name rye whiskey, often of poor quality and lacking the characteristics of the traditional spirit. Following the repeal of Prohibition, Pennsylvania’s rye whiskey producers faced lasting challenges and never fully returned to their pre-Prohibition standing.

Pennsylvania rye has long been associated with the Monongahela River Valley and is sometimes known as Monongahela rye. Historically, its production exhibited notable differences from Maryland rye and Kentucky bourbon. Distillers primarily used Pennsylvania-grown rye, including heirloom varieties such as Rosen, Danko, and Abruzzi, which are now rare. Mashbills frequently included little or no corn and often featured malted rye alongside malted barley. A sweet mash process was typically used, unlike the sour mash method common in Kentucky. Barrel aging often took place in brick or stone warehouses that were heated during the winter months. These characteristics varied among producers—some incorporated these elements, while others did not.

In the present day, Mountain Laurel Spirits in Bristol, Pennsylvania, is producing whiskey in the style of historical Pennsylvania rye under the Dad’s Hat brand. Drinkhacker was provided with a bottle of Mountain Laurel’s 2024 edition of Dad’s Hat Bottled in Bond Monongahela Mash Pennsylvania Straight Rye. This release, aged for a minimum of six years, represents the distillery’s ongoing effort to maintain profile consistency with its core range while offering a distinct character in its bottled in bond expressions.

The Monongahela mashbill consists of 80% unmalted rye, 15% 2-row malted barley, and 5% malted rye. For this batch, the majority of the rye grain used was the Danko variety, sourced from Meadowbrook Farms in Reigelsville, Pennsylvania. Fermentation employed a sweet mash process, lasting five to six days in open-top, temperature-controlled, jacketed stainless steel tanks.

Distillation was carried out on a hybrid still with a side column manufactured by Carl. The rye distillate was collected at 135 proof and entered the barrel at 120 proof. For maturation, Mountain Laurel Spirits used 53-gallon barrels with a #3 char, supplied by McGinnis Wood Products in Cuba, Missouri. The whiskey was aged for at least six years on racks in a climate-controlled masonry warehouse.

Mountain Laurel Spirits has followed many of the traditional practices associated with historically accurate Pennsylvania rye whiskey. With a glass of Dad’s Hat in hand, it’s time to explore what this expression has to offer.

Dad’s Hat Bottled in Bond Rye (2024) Review

The nose kicks off the Pennsylvania party with the aroma of toasted rye bread and marshmallows that spent a little too long over the campfire. Bright lemon oil and fresh dill bring energy to the mix, while dried apricots arrive later, adding depth and a measured sweetness. It’s a compelling aromatic profile that keeps you coming back for another sniff.

On the palate, rye bread leads once again, now joined by a rich thread of dulce de leche. The midpalate brings in a touch of clove and lemongrass, offering complexity without overwhelming the senses. The texture is incredibly rich—one of the most memorable mouthfeels I’ve experienced in quite some time. As the finish arrives, black pepper and dill step forward with confidence. The lingering oiliness carries toffee and grapefruit zest, leaving a lasting and well-structured impression.

Dad’s Hat has evolved into a standout rye as age has added character and depth. The 2024 bottled in bond release delivers impressive flavor and aroma, but it’s the exceptional mouthfeel that steals the show. At $60, it’s a strong value—and if tasted blind, many whiskey lovers would likely expect a higher price tag. A smart purchase for fans of serious rye.

100 proof.

A- / $60 / dadshatrye.com [BUY IT NOW FROM FROOTBAT]

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