Military Rye Review: Rush Creek 100% Rye

Official Product Website

History – Rush Creek Distillery was founded in 2017 by four Harvard locals: Jay T. Nolan, Jeff McCarthy, and brothers Mark and Todd Stricker. The idea emerged during a casual discussion among friends at a local tavern, where they decided to embark on a new venture focused on craft distilling. Their goal was to create high-quality spirits while contributing positively to their community.

Located in Harvard, Illinois, Rush Creek Distilling prides itself on using locally sourced ingredients that reflect the region’s distinct qualities. Water from a deep aquifer in the Rush Creek watershed and grains from the Book Family Farm, a fourth-generation farming family, form the foundation of their spirits. This local connection not only ensures quality but also strengthens their ties to the community.

Jeff McCarthy, the master distiller, brings a unique blend of skills to Rush Creek. With a background that includes mechanical expertise and a discerning palate, McCarthy oversees the production process, including their custom American pot still named Liberty. This attention to detail allows Rush Creek to craft a range of spirits including slow-filtered Vodka, American Heartland-style Gin, and aged Whiskeys like the nine-year-old Trophy Whiskey and five-year-old American Gold Whiskey.

From the outset, Rush Creek Distilling has embraced innovation and experimentation. They’ve sourced orphan whiskey barrels from Kentucky, transforming forgotten batches into distinctive spirits like their Trophy Whiskey. This commitment to creativity extends to ongoing developments such as rum, barrel-aged gin, flavored vodkas, rye whiskey, and blended whiskey, all of which are periodically shared with visitors for feedback.

Beyond production, Rush Creek offers a complete visitor experience. Located at 1501 W. Diggins St., their distillery serves as both a production facility and a destination for tours, tastings, and crafted cocktails at the Craftsman Bar. Situated at the end of the Metra’s Union Pacific Northwest line, Rush Creek Distilling invites patrons to discover their offerings in a tranquil and distinctive setting off the beaten path.

In summary, Rush Creek Distillery stands as a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of its founders and their dedication to producing exceptional spirits rooted in community and craftsmanship. Through their unique approach to distilling and commitment to local resources, Rush Creek continues to carve a niche in the craft spirits market while offering an inviting experience to visitors near and far.

Appearance – The appearance of this bottle is simply captivating. It’s the kind of design that instantly evokes a desire to go fishing the moment you pop the top. The label, adorned with a beautiful fish, and the rustic brown hue of the bottle, exude a charming log cabin feel.

Nose – The aroma is a delightful blend of nutmeg, raspberry, and cinnamon, seamlessly intertwined.

Palate – The taste is predominantly nutty, featuring a distinctive pecan flavor complemented by notes of tiramisu.

Finish – The finish combines rich fudge and butterscotch. While it’s not as smooth as one might expect from a 100 proof spirit, it does have a slightly harsh edge on the backend.

Value – This bottle offers excellent value at $48, delivering a robust and flavorful rye experience.

Summary – In summary, Rush Creek Distillery stands as a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit of its founders and their dedication to producing exceptional spirits rooted in community and craftsmanship. Through their unique approach to distilling and commitment to local resources, Rush Creek continues to carve a niche in the craft spirits market while offering an inviting experience to visitors near and far.

The bottle’s appearance is simply captivating, instantly evoking a desire to go fishing the moment you pop the top. The label, adorned with a beautiful fish, and the rustic brown hue of the bottle exude a charming log cabin feel. The aroma is a delightful blend of nutmeg, raspberry, and cinnamon, seamlessly intertwined. The taste is predominantly nutty, featuring a distinctive pecan flavor complemented by notes of tiramisu. The finish combines rich fudge and butterscotch. While it’s not as smooth as one might expect from a 100 proof spirit, it does have a slightly harsh edge on the backend. At $48, this bottle offers excellent value, delivering a robust and flavorful rye experience that reflects the quality and craftsmanship Rush Creek Distilling is known for.

“Rush Creek Distillery embodies entrepreneurial spirit and local craftsmanship, delivering exceptional, community-rooted spirits with a captivating and flavorful rye at excellent value.”

– Andrew Workman

Uniqueness- 1-10 – 3

Appearance- 1-10 – 7

Nose- 1-20 – 18

Palate- 1-20 – 16

Finish- 1-20 – 9

Value- 1-20 – 17