Frequently Asked Questions
Barrell Craft Spirits' Tale of Two Islands Cask Finish Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a masterfully crafted spirit blending the essence of aged bourbon with the unique influence of Jamaican rum and peated Islay Scotch casks. This limited-edition bourbon features a mash bill of 73% corn, 23% rye, and 4% malted barley, combining 5-, 6-, and 9-year-old bourbons sourced from Indiana and Maryland. Bottled at a bold 118.22 proof, its flavor profile is a harmonious balance of smokiness, tropical sweetness, and rich bourbon character. Expect tantalizing aromas of torched marshmallow, flambéed banana, and grilled peach, leading into a waxy palate of dark chocolate, espresso, and candied citrus, with a savory, smoky finish of burnt caramel and blackberry. Perfect for bourbon enthusiasts seeking complexity and innovation, this cask-strength whiskey is a standout addition to Barrell's renowned Cask Finish Series.
Process & Profile
This unique bourbon is a blend of straight bourbon whiskeys aged 5 to 9 years, sourced from Indiana and Maryland. With a mash bill of 73% corn, 23% rye, and 4% malted barley, it delivers the signature sweetness and spice bourbon lovers cherish. What truly sets it apart is its finishing process: the bourbon is aged in casks previously used to mature Jamaican rum, which were themselves seasoned with peated Islay single malt Scotch. This interplay of American, Jamaican, and Scottish influences creates a rich, layered whiskey experience like no other. Bottled at 118.22 proof (59.11% ABV), it is non-chill filtered to retain its full-bodied character.Tasting Notes
- Nose: A medley of aromas awaits, including torched marshmallow, flambéed banana, grilled peach, and coconut macaron, accented by subtle smoky undertones from the Islay barrels.
- Palate: On the tongue, expect an explosion of tropical fruits like pineapple and nectarine, balanced by notes of candied lemon peel, espresso, and dark chocolate. A waxy texture and hints of mineral earthiness add depth.
- Finish: The bourbon's finish is long and complex, showcasing burnt caramel, blackberry, and baking spices, with a whisper of smokiness and buttery undertones that linger enticingly.
What Makes It Special
The Tale of Two Islands isn‚Äôt just a bourbon—it's an exploration of flavor innovation. By aging the bourbon in casks with a rich history—first used for peated Islay Scotch and then Jamaican rum—Barrell Craft Spirits has introduced layers of tropical esters, delicate peat smoke, and robust bourbon heartiness into one bottle. The meticulous blending and finishing process produce a profile that is truly one-of-a-kind, marrying three distinct regions‚Äô spirits-making traditions into a harmonious whole. Its limited-release status adds to its allure for collectors and enthusiasts alike.How to Enjoy
- Neat: Savor it neat to experience the full interplay of its bold flavors and intricate layers.
- With Water: Add a few drops of spring water to unlock tropical fruit essences and nuanced sweetness like grapefruit and papaya.
- Cocktails: While it shines as a sipping whiskey, its robust flavors can elevate classic bourbon cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Boulevardier.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Tale of Two Islands Cask Finish Straight Bourbon Whiskey?
This is a unique bourbon blend from Barrell Craft Spirits that undergoes a secondary maturation process in peated Islay single malt Scotch whisky casks previously used to age their Tale of Two Islands Jamaican rum. The result is a rich and complex bourbon with flavors influenced by the sweetness of rum and the smokiness of peated whisky.
What makes this bourbon unique?
The bourbon is notable for its innovative use of finishing barrels. After initial aging in new charred oak barrels, it is finished in casks that previously held peated Islay Scotch whisky and Jamaican rum. This combination imparts layers of tropical fruit, peat smoke, and rich bourbon sweetness, resulting in a flavor profile that is both bold and nuanced.
What does it taste like?
Tasting notes highlight a complex flavor profile. On the nose, expect torched marshmallow, flambéed banana, grilled peach, and coconut macaroon. The palate features dark chocolate, candied lemon peel, espresso, nectarine, and plum sauce, with subtle influences of peat. The finish includes notes of burnt caramel, blackberry, clarified butter, and peppercorn, with some smoky undertones.
What is the proof and mash bill of this bourbon?
The bourbon is bottled at a cask strength of 118.22 proof (59.11% ABV). The derived mash bill consists of 73% corn, 23% rye, and 4% malted barley, making it a high-rye bourbon with a strong balance of sweetness and spice.
How is this bourbon best enjoyed?
This bourbon is versatile and can be enjoyed neat, with a splash of water, or on the rocks. Adding a bit of water can open up additional tropical fruit and herbal notes, providing an even more complex tasting experience.
Who is this bourbon ideal for?
Tale of Two Islands Cask Finish is perfect for bourbon enthusiasts and collectors looking for something innovative and distinctive. Its unique finishing process and layered flavors make it a standout bottle for connoisseurs who enjoy exploring different influences in whiskey.
Where is this bourbon made?
The bourbon is a blend of straight whiskeys distilled in Indiana and Maryland, finished in Kentucky, and bottled by Barrell Craft Spirits.
Is this a limited-edition release?
Yes, this bourbon is part of Barrell's limited-release Cask Finish Series, making it a sought-after bottle for enthusiasts and collectors.
What is the price of the Tale of Two Islands Cask Finish Bourbon?
The suggested retail price is approximately $90 for a 750 mL bottle, though prices may vary depending on location and availability.
What awards or recognition has this bourbon received?
The Tale of Two Islands Cask Finish Straight Bourbon earned 91 points from *Wine Enthusiast* and has been praised for its innovative approach and distinctive flavor profile in whiskey reviews.
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