Dad's Hat, Pennsylvania Straight Rye Whiskey, 95 Proof

Herman Mihalich and John Cooper founded Mountain Laurel Spirits to re-establish the historic Monongahela style of Pennsylvania rye through a focused agricultural approach. The mash bill utilizes 80% Danko rye grown in the silt-loam soils of neighboring Bucks County, supported by a 20% malt component and an intentional absence of corn. Technical production involves a controlled seven-day fermentation followed by double-distillation in a 500-gallon Christian Carl pot still, where specific cuts are taken to retain the grain's essential oils and ensure mid-palate density. This 95-proof expression matures for a minimum of four years in 53-gallon Char 3 Missouri oak, resulting in a structurally robust whiskey with a dense, coating texture. The architectural result is a lean, grain-forward profile defined by persistent, drying spice rather than barrel-derived sweetness.