Manatawny Still Works Small Batch Whiskey
94 Proof
Price Point: $35 – $45 for 750 ML
Distiller: Manatawny Still Works
Background
Manatawny Still Works is a relatively new micro-distillery in Pottstown, Pennsylvania, not far from where I live. I had the pleasure of touring their facility (which you can read about here), as well as reviewing their J. Potts White Whiskey.
Although the original plan was to let their American whiskey rest in barrels for several years, it looks like the investors put the pressure on Max and the crew to release an aged whiskey sooner, and that’s where Manatawny Small Batch comes in. This whiskey has an interesting mash bill (42% malt, 41% wheat, 13% oats, 4% rye), and spent seven and a half months resting in 30-gallon oak barrels.
Review
Manatawny Small Batch is very young and abrasive on the nose. The alcohol aroma will shock at first, but once you move past that, you’ll notice yeasty bread notes with freshly chopped oak and sugary cereal. Very earthy.
On the palate, this whiskey is once again, young and harsh. It’s clearly not a bourbon, but unmistakably American. It’s spicy and sweet – interesting enough to keep you drinking but not overly complex. There are also more bread-like/cereal notes.
The finish on Manatawny Small Batch is nice and long, with a familiar malty flavor similar to the finish of a single malt Scotch. It’s subtle, but it’s there, along with something fruity (cherries?).
Rating & Recommendations
Manatawny Small Batch Whiskey earns a rating of 82 out of 100.
This is a good start from Max at Manatawny Still Works. I would have preferred that they wait to release the first batch after a few years in the barrel, as opposed to a few months, but I understand the struggle with patience.
-Ryan