Black Frost Blended Rye Whiskey Review

Distillery: Black Frost Distilling—New Ulm, MN

Proof: 92.0 (46.0% ABV)

Age: Blended (See review for details)

Mashbill: 80% Rye, 18% Corn, 2% Barley Malt

MSRP: $54

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Black Frost Blended Rye Whiskey:  A Hard-to-Find Platinum Rye Whiskey

Never heard of Black Frost Distilling?  You’re not alone.

A newcomer to the American whiskey scene, they quietly opened their doors in New Ulm, Minnesota.  With a mission to produce whiskey that is rooted in local grain, traditional craftsmanship, and a regional identity, the distillery was founded by two longtime friends Nate Gieseke—a sixth-generation farmer—and Jace Marti—a sixth-generation brewmaster from the nearby August Schell Brewing Company. Together, they launched Black Frost with the goal of reviving grain farming in southern Minnesota and coupling it with exploring what the northern-grown grain and oak could bring to whiskey.

Black Frost’s approach is distinctly Midwest—not just in geography, but in philosophy. They’re growing their own grain, using Minnesota oak barrels for aging, and crafting whiskey that aims to reflect the character of the upper Midwest.

One of the whiskey’s most defining traits is the use of Danko rye, an heirloom variety of rye originally developed in Poland. Unlike the more commonly used rye strains for whiskey which are most often selected for yield and ease of distillation, Danko rye is grown for its rich, earthy flavors and high oil content. It brings higher floral, bready, and herbal notes rather than the sharp, peppery bite typically associated with rye whiskey.

The decision to age the whiskey in Minnesota-grown oak barrels is another important distinction for Black Frost. The state’s short growing season produces oak with a tighter structure, which limits tannin extraction and promotes a more vanilla-forward, baking spice-driven profile.

Black Frost’s Blended Rye Malt Whiskey delivers a strong first impression that will attract enthusiasts.

Black Frost Blended Rye Whiskey Review: Tasting Notes

Nose – 4.5/5

The Nose opens with the sweetness of caramel and vanilla bean, followed by delicate notes of dried apricot and a spring earthiness—think wildflowers. There’s an herbal quality that brings a fresh, bright and slightly sweet citrus notes to the Nose.  Sitting in the glass for several minutes, a slight oak influence emerges.

Palate – 4.5/5

On the first sip, there are immediate honey and cola notes that pleasantly linger on the Palate. The rye doesn’t come through as sharp or peppery; instead, it’s muted with a floral spice and notes of orange peel. Toward the back, a light oak char note appears and serves as an exclamation mark for the Palate.

Finish – 4.25/5

The Finish is clean and lightly dry, with a mix of muted caramel, gentle cloves, and just a slight hint of smoked grains. The texture doesn’t linger, rather it wraps up nicely into a pleasant dryness that leaves you enthusiastic for the next sip.

Value – 4.75/5

At $54, this bottle sits in the sweet spot for an independently made, regionally focused craft whiskey. While the name does not yet carry national recognition, the quality of the whiskey speaks for itself. The use of Danko rye sets it apart from more common rye profiles by delivering a softer expression.

Black Frost Blended Rye Whiskey Review: The Verdict

Black Frost Blended Rye Malt Whiskey is a major statement from a distillery that few have heard of—but should.

This is a whiskey with a name that doesn’t scream “look at me.”  But it’s a whiskey that you should not overlook as it rewards you with complexity and a character that is easy to enjoy.

Black Frost might be a new name on the scene, but it’s one worth watching and worth seeking out.  Sadly, it is only available at select Minnesota retailers and at the Distillery.  Hopefully, some of the Insiders have friends in Minnesota!

Verdict – 4.5/5

We score each bourbon based on nose, palate, finish, and value.

Scoring System:

• Platinum – 4.5 – 5
• Gold – 4 – 4.5
• Silver – 3 – 4
• Bronze – <3