First Pour

Spirit Hound Colorado Rye pours a rich amber with burnt orange highlights, immediately signaling the influence of Colorado's high-altitude aging conditions. The legs are moderate and steady — exactly what you'd expect from a 100-proof Bottled-in-Bond expression. From the moment the cork comes off, bold rye spice and dark cherry notes compete for attention, setting the stage for a pour that's unapologetically grain-forward.

The Distillery Story

Spirit Hound Distillers operates out of Lyons, Colorado, where founders Craig Engelhorn and Matt Rooney built their own copper stills by hand. That level of hands-on craftsmanship extends to every bottle. Using Colorado-grown rye and mountain water, Spirit Hound has carved out a niche as one of the most authentic craft distilleries in the Rockies. Their Bottled-in-Bond designation adds a layer of trust — guaranteeing at least four years of aging in a federally bonded warehouse at a consistent 100 proof.

Tasting Deep Dive

The nose opens with assertive rye spice and black cherry, layered over a delicate bed of light oak and vanilla. It's a straightforward invitation that doesn't try to be something it isn't. On the palate, peppery rye takes the lead, flanked by stone fruit sweetness that softens the spice without muting it. Gentle oak and malt undertones provide structural depth, making each sip feel substantial without becoming heavy. The finish is medium-long, with lingering spice and cherry-tinged oak that slowly fades into a warm, satisfying close. At 100 proof, the heat is present but never overwhelming — a testament to the quality of the distillation.

Value Proposition

Spirit Hound Colorado Rye occupies an interesting space in the market. The $34.99 guide price is extremely competitive for a BiB craft rye, though typical retail runs $60–70 depending on your location. Even at full retail, you're getting a genuine single-barrel, small-batch product made from locally sourced grain on hand-built equipment. For drinkers who value provenance and character over mass-market polish, this bottle delivers.

Final Verdict

Spirit Hound Colorado Rye is a bold, spice-driven craft rye that wears its Colorado roots proudly. The 100-proof BiB backbone gives it the structure to stand up in cocktails — particularly Boulevardiers — while the dark cherry and stone fruit notes make it an engaging sipper. Limited availability outside Colorado may frustrate some seekers, but for those who find it, this is a distinctive bottle that rewards attention.