Smooth Ambler 'Contradiction' Straight Rye Whiskey, West Virginia, USA

The perfect balance between bold spice and smooth flavors in a Straight Rye blend.

John Little of Smooth Ambler Spirits set out with his father-in-law to make something his adopted state of West Virginia would be proud of. In 2009, that dream became a reality when they opened up their distillery in the tiny town of Maxwellton — which sits in the middle of the Appalachian Mountains. They have a single, small batch still. But sales have done well and they are up to approximately 80 barrels per month produced across two shifts. In-house they produce Whiskeys, Gins, a Rum, and a Vodka. The company was purchased by Pernod Ricard a few years ago, but John Little still runs the show.

There are multiple ways to describe Smooth Ambler Contradiction Straight Rye Whiskey. You could simply say it’s a blend of Whiskeys from West Virginia and three Straight Rye Whiskeys from other distilleries the Smooth Ambler folk love. But we’d probably say that every sip is like velvety aromatics and notes of muddled in-season allspice getting married on a smooth, creamy, and slightly spicy palate, packed with nutmeg and fruity stuff. It’s like four mash bills in one and at exactly 99 proof, this balanced and rich concoction is best savored neat.