“I know we didn’t pick this… but why is it incredible?”

That’s what I said to Blake when prepping for my email on these Proof & Main releases, specifically when drinking through the Tumblin’ Dice Rye.

Proof & Wood is based out of Washington DC and focuses on sourcing and blending. Bottles from their DC series are getting harder to find. Their core business is sourcing and bottling fine American whiskies, but they also import other high-quality spirits from around the world that were not available in the US previously. Founder Dave Schmier is delighted to be able to create both cocktail-friendly bottlings for value-focused bartenders and high-end collectors’ editions for connoisseurs.

This is the 2nd release of The Cabinet – a limited-edition whiskey that showcases the best of their ryes and bourbons. The Cabinet is part of the award-winning DC Collection, including The Senator, awarded the Best American Rye at the 2022 World Whiskies Awards and The Representative, dubbed World’s Best Bourbon, also at the 2023 World Whiskies Awards.

It showcases some intense rye flavors; spices and floral notes waft out of the glass with flavors of dried fruits, nutmeg and mint, complemented by sweetness and full bourbon flavors of vanilla and tobacco. Rich mouth feel and spice complete the flavor experience.

This Tumblin’ Dice rye though (to me) is one not to miss, and likely my favorite rye of 2023. I don’t just go tossing that around either, there have been some excellent entries from Pursuit Spirits Oak Collection Rye and 15 STARS among others, but this Tumblin’ Dice just keeps taking me back to flavors I loved about the first Kentucky Owl Rye.

Big blast of candied herbal and spice: it’s basically an old fashioned in a glass garnished with candied lemon peel. Toasted vanilla, juicy tangerine, minty toffee.

The palate is deep, deep, deep. Rich candied citrus peel, toasted marshmallow sweetness, fresh, damp oak notes, and beautifully balanced.

The linger is long, sugary, and creamy.