Introduction
Today, we’re diving into a Canadian whisky we haven’t visited in quite some time: Lot 40 Canadian Rye Whisky. Canadian whisky often flies under the radar, especially among whiskey aficionados who tend to favor American bourbons, Scotch, or even Japanese whiskies. But Lot 40 stands out as a rye whiskey that’s received a fair amount of praise, even if it’s not considered a super-premium offering.
Lot 40 is a 100% rye whiskey, which is unique in itself. But like most Canadian whiskies, it’s aged in used barrels, which tends to impart a gentler character to the spirit. Coming in at 86 proof with no age statement, it’s a straightforward whiskey without many frills. We’re here to see how it holds up, especially when compared to some of the more popular Canadian options like Crown Royal.
The following review is taken from our episode "Batman (1989) / Lot 40 Canadian Rye Whisky." Click the link to listen to this review in audio format.
Nose
Brad: This is a 100% rye whiskey, and you can definitely tell that right from the nose. It leans heavily into a black licorice or anise aroma, which can be a bit off-putting for some people, but it doesn’t necessarily translate into the taste, which is a good thing. Black licorice isn’t exactly a fan favorite. Beyond that, I got some strong rye notes, but what really shines through are some pleasant vanilla and Christmas-y spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s decent, but not mind-blowing. I’d give it a 7/10.
Bob: There’s something off about this nose that I can’t quite put my finger on. It doesn’t smell overly chemical or young, but it does give off a citrusy note—lots of lemon and lime—that feels like it’s masking something. It’s not unpleasant, but it does remind me that this is probably an inexpensive whiskey. It’s got a bit of that cheap whiskey smell to it. I’ll give it a 6.5/10.
Taste
Bob: The taste is where things start to pick up a bit. It’s really bright, with that citrus from the nose coming through strong. It’s sweet, almost like sugar water, but there’s not a lot of complexity here. It’s definitely drinkable, but you can tell this isn’t an expensive whiskey. I’d give it a 7/10.
Brad: I think I liked the palate just a bit more. It reminded me of those honey sticks you can get at a farmer’s market—specifically the ones infused with a bit of mint. It’s sweet and floral, with a hint of artificial mint that keeps it from being really great. Still, it’s a pleasant drink. I’m giving it a 7.5/10.
Finish
Bob: The finish is where things took a turn for me. It left a waxy, almost artificial feel in my mouth, like those chocolate wafers with a high shine you see sometimes. It wasn’t an unpleasant flavor, but the mouthfeel really detracted from the experience. I’m giving it a 6/10.
Brad: I got some dark chocolate and rye on the finish, but it didn’t really develop into anything oaky or complex. It just sort of fizzled out. It’s a pretty harsh drop-off from the palate and the nose. I’d give it a 5.5/10.
Balance
Bob: This is a tough one to score. It’s consistent from start to finish, but there’s just something a little off about the whole thing. It feels like it’s trying to be something it’s not. I’m giving it a 6/10.
Brad: I’m with you on that. There’s not enough complexity here to really elevate it. It’s a decent whiskey, but it’s not going to blow anyone away. I’d give it a 6/10 as well.
Value
Bob: Lot 40 seems to go for about $35, which isn’t too bad in the grand scheme of things. It’s definitely better than something like Crown Royal, which is usually around $25, so I’d say it’s worth the extra $10. I’ll give it a 7/10 on value.
Brad: Yeah, at $35, it’s not the worst value out there, but I think there are better options in that price range. I’m giving it a 5.5/10. It’s just not something I’d go out of my way to buy.
Final Scores
Bob: I’m coming out to a 32.5/50. It’s fine, but it’s not something I’d go out of my way to recommend.
Brad: I’m at a 31.5/50. We’re pretty much on the same page here.
Conclusion
With a combined score of 64 out of 100, Lot 40 Canadian Rye Whisky is a decent option if you’re looking to dip your toes into Canadian whisky. It’s got some nice elements, but there’s nothing here that’s going to blow you away. At $35, it’s an affordable option, but if you’re looking for something with a bit more complexity or punch, you might want to look elsewhere.
This one’s a bit of a mixed bag—worth trying, but not a must-have for your collection. If you’re curious about Canadian whisky, it might be worth a pour at a bar before committing to a full bottle.
