Overview: WhistlePig, the Vermont distillery renowned for its 100 proof WhistlePig 10 Year Rye, is more than just Canadian whiskey finished in bourbon barrels.. Today, we delve into a unique experience: WhistlePig 10 Year Single Barrel Rye Whiskey. This particular barrel was hand-picked by a local whiskey club that I belong to..
The Barrel Pick Experience: Belonging to a whiskey club with access to barrel programs is a privilege, and this WhistlePig selection exemplifies that. A single barrel yields a limited number of bottles, making each one a treasure hunt. In our case, we sampled through several options, highlighting the variability in single barrel picks.
Age: 10 years
Proof: 115.4
Mashbill: Undisclosed
Nose: A symphony of scents begins with a bold, expected heat. Thick pipe tobacco and molasses intertwine with vanilla and a whisper of maple syrup. Then comes a rye spice kick, followed by softer notes of Christmas cookies covered in frosting. Herbal undertones mingle with the slightest hint of earthiness, adding complexity.
Palate: A medium mouthfeel delivers black pepper, baking spices, tobacco, and a dark sweetness reminiscent of dark chocolate and licorice. The oak influence shines through, accompanied by a wave of mint and pine needles. Cinnamon, peppercorns, and chili powder heat things up, balanced by just enough brown sugar to prevent bitterness. The oily texture evolves with each sip, sometimes revealing its high proof, then softening into sweeter notes.
Finish: A medium-to-long finish showcases an explosion of floral and herbal notes. Pepper, cloves, and a touch of ethanol mingle with cherry cough syrup, black pepper, mint, and plums. Unlike bourbon finishes, this rye concludes with a Halls cough drop and a lingering herbal bouquet. The complex finish puts an exclamation point on this whiskey.
Final Thoughts: This review isn't just about this specific barrel, as single barrel selections are inherently unique. Rather, it's about the barrel pick experience itself. The variance in quality we encountered while sampling 8 different barrels emphasizes the importance of trusting the store or club's selection process. While some stores rely solely on the distiller's choice, this can be risky, especially at this price point.
WhistlePig, no longer sourcing from MGP, presumably utilizes Alberta rye whiskey finished in Vermont bourbon barrels. The results can be exceptional, but buyer beware. If you're seeking a single barrel adventure, be prepared for variability and choose your source wisely.
Rating: Middle shelf - Link to ratings explanations
No comments:
Post a Comment