Review: Oaklore Port Cask Rye

Oaklore Distilling is situated in Matthews, North Carolina, a suburb just southeast of Charlotte. Though a relatively new name in the world of distilling, Oaklore has forged strong partnerships with sister distilleries in Hickman, Kentucky, and Statesville, North Carolina, collaborating to produce their bourbon and rye whiskey through contract distillation.

The Oaklore Story Series North Carolina Rye Port Cask Finish is distilled to Oaklore’s standards by Southern Distilling in Statesville—just over an hour north of Matthews. This rye whiskey features a locally sourced mashbill of 70% rye, 20% corn, and 10% malted barley. The mash is distilled on an 18-inch continuous copper column still built by Vendome, coming off the still around 140 proof before being barreled at a notably lower proof than the industry norm of 125.

Aged for over six years in #2 char barrels from by Kelvin Cooperage, the rye underwent a respectable initial maturation. Following this, it was transferred to freshly emptied Port wine casks from San Sebastian Winery in St. Augustine, Florida, where it enjoyed an additional 12 to 18 months of aging in the region. These Florida Port casks carry nearly two decades of seasoning through a well-maintained solera system. After this extended finishing period, Oaklore bottled the rye at 92 proof, preserving the whiskey’s natural character with no chill filtration.

Oaklore Distilling says that every oak stave carries its own story. What tale will the Story Series Port Cask Rye reveal? Let’s come together and discover it.

Oaklore Port Cask Rye Review

The Port cask influence is immediately apparent with the distinct scent of cherry cough drops rising from the glass. The aroma feels thick and syrupy as molasses blends with the cherry note. This density gradually shifts to dried orange peel and savory nutmeg. Taken together, the overall nose brings to mind a spiced cranberry punch commonly enjoyed during the holidays.

On the palate, the cherry notes continue as cherry preserves paired with flaky, buttery pie crust—bringing to mind freshly baked cherry pie. As the tasting unfolds, hints of cinnamon and orange zest join in, complementing a dense, almost syrup-like mouthfeel. The finish begins with dark brown sugar and dried cherries, lingering before a touch of black pepper and bright candied ginger complete the experience.

I’m usually cautious about rye whiskeys finished in Port casks, especially those bottled below 100 proof, but Oaklore Distilling has delivered something surprising here. The Port cask influence is clear throughout, yet it never becomes overly sweet. The cherry notes are pronounced and expressive but stay balanced without overwhelming the profile. Many might hesitate at the idea of a rye whiskey bottled at 92 proof and priced near $100, but in this case, I’d be willing to pay that and feel satisfied.

92 proof.

A- / $100 / oakloredistilling.com

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