Frequently Asked Questions
Elevate your whiskey experience with Hillrock Cabernet Finished Solera Aged Bourbon, a trailblazing spirit that harmoniously blends tradition and innovation. Crafted at the renowned Hillrock Estate Distillery in New York, this bourbon undergoes the meticulous Solera aging process—an artful layering of younger and older whiskeys, finished in exquisite Napa Valley Cabernet wine casks. The result is a rich, copper-hued whiskey bursting with complex flavor notes of dark fruits like cherry and blackberry, complemented by caramel, toffee, and a touch of oak spice. Enhanced with a bouquet of floral and nutty undertones, it finishes long and smooth with hints of vanilla and cabernet. At 46.3% ABV, Hillrock's masterful blend of heritage and craftsmanship offers a luxurious, velvety sip that's perfect for aficionados seeking something extraordinary.
Process & Profile
Hillrock Cabernet Finished Solera Aged Bourbon Whiskey is a testament to craftsmanship and tradition. The solera aging process blends young and aged bourbons in a cascading system of barrels, ensuring consistency and complexity in every batch. This intricate process starts with Hillrock's in-house bourbon, carefully blended with a "seed bourbon" that has matured in a 20-year-old Oloroso sherry solera cask. Afterward, the whiskey is finished in Napa Valley Cabernet wine casks, adding a distinctive layer of depth and flavor. This meticulous aging process creates a spirit that balances the boldness of bourbon with the elegance of wine.Tasting Notes
Hillrock Cabernet Finished Solera Aged Bourbon greets you with a captivating caramel-vanilla nose, interwoven with fruity notes of cherries, blackberries, and citrus. On the palate, warm flavors of toffee, French oak, and dark fruits shine, complemented by subtle hints of spice from the Cabernet cask finish. The journey concludes with a long, rich finish featuring vanilla, cherry, and a touch of Cabernet elegance, offering a smooth and velvety texture throughout.What Makes It Special
- Solera Aging Method: As the first solera-aged bourbon in the U.S., this whiskey offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation. The solera process ensures consistency and a depth of flavor rarely found in other bourbons.
- Napa Cabernet Finish: The finishing in Napa Valley Cabernet wine casks imparts a distinct fruity and wine-like character, elevating the bourbon's complexity.
- Artisanal Crafting: Created under the guidance of the late master distiller Dave Pickerell, the bourbon combines Hillrock's estate grains with carefully sourced aged bourbons.
How to Enjoy
- Neat: Appreciate the complexity and layers of flavor by savoring it neat in a Glencairn glass.
- On the Rocks: Add a single large ice cube to mellow the spirit while preserving its core flavors.
- Cocktails: Elevate classics like the Manhattan or Old Fashioned with Hillrock's unique profile, adding richness and depth to your drink.
- Pairing Suggestions: Pair with dark chocolate, roasted nuts, or a cigar to complement its warm and fruity notes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Hillrock Solera Aged Bourbon unique?
Hillrock Solera Aged Bourbon is crafted using the traditional Solera aging process, a technique involving a cascading system of barrels where younger whiskey is progressively blended with older stocks. This results in a balanced, complex flavor profile that evolves over time. Hillrock was the first bourbon producer to adopt this method, making it distinct in the whiskey world.
What is the role of the Napa Cabernet Cask finish?
After the Solera aging process, this bourbon is finished in fine Napa Valley Cabernet wine casks. This additional step infuses the bourbon with rich, nuanced flavors of dark fruits, cherry, and a hint of spice, complementing the traditional caramel, vanilla, and oak notes.
What does this bourbon taste like?
The palate offers a harmonious blend of sweet caramel, toffee, and French oak, layered with fruity notes of blackberry, cherry, and currant. It concludes with a long, vanilla-forward finish accented with subtle hints of cabernet and cherry.
What is the alcohol content?
Hillrock Cabernet Finished Solera Aged Bourbon Whiskey is bottled at 46.3% alcohol by volume (ABV), striking a balance between intensity and smoothness.
How should I enjoy Hillrock Solera Aged Bourbon?
This versatile bourbon is excellent for sipping neat, with a splash of water, or over ice to unlock its intricate flavors. It also performs beautifully in classic cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan.
Where is Hillrock Estate Distillery located?
Hillrock Estate Distillery is situated in New York's Hudson Valley. This farm distillery is known for its commitment to craft and quality, producing whiskey from grain to bottle.
How old is the whiskey in Hillrock Solera Aged Bourbon?
Hillrock bourbon has an average age of over six years, with some components being much older due to the Solera method, which blends whiskeys of varying ages.
Who developed Hillrock Solera Aged Bourbon?
This bourbon was developed by the late Dave Pickerell, a renowned Master Distiller who also worked with Maker's Mark and Whistlepig. His expertise brought Hillrock's unique vision to life.
Is this bourbon suitable for collectors?
Yes, the distinct Solera process and Napa Cabernet Cask finish make this bourbon a coveted addition for collectors and enthusiasts seeking a unique and premium whiskey experience.
What is the mash bill of this bourbon?
Hillrock Solera Aged Bourbon's mash bill contains at least 51% corn, as required for bourbon, with approximately 37% rye, adding a mild spice to its rich profile.
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