Barrell Craft Spirits Seagrass 16 Year Old Rye is an exceptional, limited-edition rye whiskey that redefines the art of blending and finishing. Crafted from 16-year-old 100% Canadian rye, this premium expression is meticulously finished in Martinique Rhum Agricole, Madeira, and apricot brandy casks, delivering an extraordinary depth of flavor. Expect an intricate nose of vibrant fruit like apricot, pear, and plum, balanced with subtle hints of honeyed vanilla and floral notes. On the palate, waves of rich dark fruit, toasted oak, and caramelized spice unfold, complemented by a luscious, oily texture. Its remarkably long finish reveals layers of rye spice, exotic tropical fruit, and a refreshing touch of minty minerality. Bottled at a cask strength of 130.82 proof, Seagrass 16 is a bold yet polished offering that celebrates innovation and craftsmanship, perfect for discerning whiskey enthusiasts seeking a luxurious and unforgettable experience.
Process & Profile
Barrell Craft Spirits Seagrass 16 Year Old Rye is a masterfully crafted expression of rye whiskey, showcasing the art of blending and finishing. This limited-edition release is built upon two sets of 16-year-old Canadian rye barrels, each with distinctive characteristics—one with lively citrus and green apple notes, and the other with earthy spearmint tones. These whiskeys undergo secondary maturation in three unique casks: Martinique Rhum Agricole barrels, Malmsey Madeira barrels, and apricot brandy casks. This meticulous process develops a multi-layered flavor profile that is further refined by aging and blending in Kentucky, offering a true cask-strength experience at 128.12 proof (64.06% ABV).
Tasting Notes
Seagrass 16 delivers a symphony of aromas and flavors:
-
Nose: A bouquet of white flowers, toasted grains, bright honey, and tropical hints of apricot and roasted pineapple, complemented by nutty and citrus undertones from the Madeira barrels.
-
Palate: A luscious blend of ripe Meyer lemon, clover honey, fresh basil, and pineapple unfolds with each sip. The nuanced sweetness is balanced by subtle black pepper and acidity from the Madeira finish, creating an evolving, layered experience.
-
Finish: A long and warming conclusion, featuring exotic spices such as pink peppercorn and Mediterranean herbs, softened by sweet apricot and tropical notes. Hints of mature whiskey elements like leather and nutmeg linger, leaving a satisfying impression of lemon, honey, and cracked black pepper.
What Makes It Special
Barrell Seagrass 16 Year Old Rye stands out for its innovative approach and unparalleled craftsmanship:
-
Multi-Cask Aging: The use of three distinct casks imparts complex flavors, blending the grassy, spicy characteristics of rye with tropical and citrus sweetness.
-
16-Year Maturation: Extended aging amplifies the depth and sophistication of the whiskey, allowing the flavors to fully develop.
-
Cask Strength Excellence: Bottled unfiltered and at full proof, this whiskey preserves its pure essence, offering bold and dynamic flavor with each sip.
-
Renowned Distillery: Barrell Craft Spirits has earned its reputation for blending expertise, with numerous accolades for its Seagrass series.
How to Enjoy
Barrell Seagrass 16 Year Old Rye can be savored in several ways:
-
Neat: Experience the full complexity and depth of this whiskey without dilution.
-
With Water: Add a splash of water to unlock additional aromas and balance its high proof.
-
In Cocktails: Elevate your favorite rye-based classics like a Manhattan or Old Fashioned with its unique tropical and spiced profile.
Indulge in the exquisite craftsmanship and ocean-inspired elegance of Barrell Craft Spirits Seagrass 16 Year Old Rye. This whiskey is a collector's gem and a conversation starter for enthusiasts seeking innovation, depth, and timeless quality in a glass.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Barrell Craft Spirits Seagrass 16 Year Old Rye unique?
This whiskey is a blend of 100% Canadian rye aged for 16 years and finished in three distinct cask types: Martinique Rhum Agricole, Malmsey Madeira, and apricot brandy barrels. These unique finishes contribute a layered complexity, including grassy and fruity notes, maritime minerality, and nutty, sweet accents.
What is the proof of Barrell Seagrass 16 Year Old Rye?
It is bottled at cask strength with a proof of 130.82, offering an intense and bold flavor experience.
What are the tasting notes for Barrell Seagrass 16 Year Old Rye?
- *Nose*: A vibrant mix of rye spice, apricot, fresh citrus, and grassy aromatics complemented by hints of oak, tobacco, and vanilla.
- *Palate*: Oily texture with layers of apricot preserves, nutty madeira influences, tropical fruit, sunflower seeds, and lemon zest.
- *Finish*: Long-lasting with flavors of passionfruit, mirabelle plum, minerality, and soft spice, leaving a warm, lingering impression.
Where is Barrell Seagrass 16 Year Old Rye produced?
The rye whiskey is distilled in Canada and aged both in the U.S. and Canada. It is finished, blended, and bottled by Barrell Craft Spirits in Kentucky.
What food pairings or cocktails work best with this whiskey?
Barrell Seagrass 16 Year Old Rye is versatile. It can be enjoyed neat to explore its intricate flavors or with a splash of water to open up new dimensions. It also adds a unique twist to classic rye-based cocktails like the Manhattan or Old Fashioned.
How is this whiskey different from the original Barrell Seagrass?
The 16 Year Old Gray Label version uses older rye stocks and is bottled at a higher proof, resulting in a more intense, complex experience. The finishes are more pronounced, offering deeper fruity, nutty, and spicy notes, whereas the original is lighter and more approachable.
Is this a limited release?
Yes, Barrell Seagrass 16 Year Old Rye is a limited edition, crafted using some of Barrell Craft Spirits' rarest and oldest rye barrels. It is produced in smaller quantities compared to their standard offerings.
What serving suggestions are recommended for this high-proof whiskey?
Due to its high proof, sipping slowly is advised. Adding a splash of water can help mellow the alcohol and reveal additional flavors. For those who enjoy cocktails, it can elevate any rye-forward drink with its unique cask finishes.
Why is it called “Seagrass”?
The name reflects the whiskey's maritime minerality and grassy rye notes, reminiscent of ocean breezes and natural landscapes, which are enhanced by the finishing barrels, particularly the Rhum Agricole.
Who is Barrell Craft Spirits, and what is their approach to whiskey production?
Barrell Craft Spirits is an independent blender and bottler, known for sourcing high-quality casks from around the globe. They specialize in innovative finishes and blending techniques, producing cask-strength spirits that highlight the unique attributes of their components.
