Patricia Green Gazelle Rye Whiskey Review

Distillery: Patty Green Whiskey Distillers — Newberg, OR

Proof: 100.0 (50.0% ABV)

Age: NAS

Mashbill: 90% Gazelle Rye, 10% Pinot Noir

MSRP: $95

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A Heritage Rye Whiskey from Oregon?  Yes, and It’s Good!

Oregon’s Willamette Valley, a long and fertile valley in western Oregon, is well known for wine production, particularly Pinot Noir.  Patricia Green Cellars is a fundamental part of the Valley’s wine scene, with a reputation for crafting quality Pinot Noir and Sauvignon Blanc.

But under the separate label of Patty Green Whiskey Distillers, the team has launched something that few would expect from a renowned winery: a serious, small-batch rye whiskey. And the results are more than just a curiosity—they’re a standout.

Gazelle Rye Whiskey isn’t made in a traditional distillery setting. It’s produced and aged using Patricia Green’s existing wine infrastructure.  The whiskey is named for the Gazelle rye grain—a heritage grain that is used for its softer, spicier profile compared to other high-yield rye strains. The mashbill is simple: 90% Gazelle rye and 10% barley, distilled on a hybrid still and aged in new oak barrels with a light to medium toast.

Patricia Green Gazelle Rye Whiskey Review: Tasting Notes

Nose – 4.25/5

The Nose opens with a dusty, woody and earthy notes, followed quickly by a sweetness reminiscent of graham cracker and honey, but the rye grain character remains front and center. Hints of baking spice—clove—adds to the Nose without overtaking the subtle herbal notes.

Palate – 4/5

The first sip is unexpectedly rich with flavors of honey wine combined with spice notes and some sweet orange (Mandarin) zestiness.  The rye spice is present, but subdued—more herbal than sharp, which allows soft fruit and honey notes to shine.

Finish – 4/5

The Finish is medium-long and leans warm, with lingering spiced honey, black tea, and a light citrus bitterness. It doesn’t coat the Palate in tangy oak tannin—instead, it fades gradually, leaving with a clean sweet menthol aftertaste.

Value – 3.75/5

At $95, Gazelle Rye is a premium-priced expression—with justification. Between the use of heritage grain, the craft production scale, and a unique winemaker influence, this bottle stands out in the crowded rye field. It’s not an everyday pour, but it’s an excellent option for drinkers who appreciate small-batch expressions and a distinctive grain profile.

Patricia Green Gazelle Rye Whiskey Review: The Verdict

What happens when winemaking expertise meets grain distillation—a dang fine Rye Whiskey happens—Patty Green Gazelle Rye happens. Rather than the prototypical bold or peppery rye profile, Patricia Green Cellars has produced a whiskey that is feels rather…..elegant.

For enthusiasts looking to discover rye whiskeys that highlight flavor over firepower, or who are curious about what a winemaker’s touch can bring to whiskey, this is a bottle that deserves your attention.

Verdict – 4/5

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