A Legendary Outlaw Spirit - Templeton Rye Whiskey
Born in defiance of Prohibition, Templeton Rye Whiskey carries with it a legacy of rebellion, resilience, and remarkable flavor. In 1920, when America banned the manufacture and sale of alcohol, Alphonse Kerkhoff of Templeton, Iowa, crafted rye whiskey so good it became known simply as "The Good Stuff." His spirit drew the attention of bootlegger Al Capone, who smuggled barrels of Templeton Rye into speakeasies from New York to San Francisco, even keeping a case hidden during his time at Alcatraz. Nearly a century later, that recipe lives on through his grandson, Keith Kerkhoff, ensuring every bottle captures both heritage and craftsmanship.
Tasting Experience
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Nose: Bold aromas of toasted oak, dried fruits, and warm baking spices with a hint of vanilla.
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Palate: Over 90% rye in the mashbill delivers signature spice layered with caramel, toffee, and creamy vanilla, balanced by subtle notes of dried orchard fruit.
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Finish: Long, warming, and complex with a satisfying depth that reflects its rich history.
Craftsmanship
Templeton Rye is distilled from winter and spring rye grains that provide exceptional flavor, with a mashbill of over 90% rye and malted barley. The spirit is fermented for 72-84 hours with a yeast strain tailored for whiskey, then double-distilled for purity. It is aged for a minimum of four years in charred American white oak barrels from Missouri, where Iowa’s dramatic seasonal climate accelerates interaction between whiskey and wood, enhancing both maturity and complexity. Bottled in Templeton, Iowa, the whiskey continues to honor its outlaw roots while delivering a refined drinking experience.
Accolades
Templeton Rye has received consistent recognition for its quality, including the Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2009 and 2010, the title of “Rye Whiskey of the Year” in the 2009 Whisky Bible, and “Best of Whiskey” at the 2008 Los Angeles Wine and Spirits Competition, where it stood out among more than 4,000 entries.
Best Enjoyed
Templeton Rye is best savored neat or on the rocks, where its character shines, but it also elevates classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan with its bold, spicy backbone.
Experience the outlaw legacy of Templeton Rye Whiskey, a spirit of heritage, rebellion, and award-winning craftsmanship, now available on Royal Batch.
