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Learn MoreElevate your whiskey experience with Old Elk Rum Cask Finish Rye Whiskey, a standout addition to the Cask Finish Series by Old Elk Distillery. This unique expression begins with a 95% rye mash bill, aged for a minimum of five years, and finishes in 14-year-old Barbados rum casks for 2-5 months. The result is a harmonious blend of rye spice and tropical sweetness, offering a nose of molasses, allspice, and sugarcane, complemented by a bold palate of brown sugar, spearmint, and herbal undertones. The finish lingers with notes of tobacco, caramel, and overripe pineapple, creating an exquisite balance of richness and complexity. Bottled at 101 proof, this whiskey is perfect for those seeking a distinctive take on classic rye craftsmanship.
Process & Profile
Crafted using a high-rye mash bill of 95% rye and 5% malted barley, this whiskey is aged in new charred American oak barrels for a minimum of five years. It is then finished for 2–5 months in 14-year-old Barbados rum casks, imbuing it with additional complexity and sweetness. Bottled at 101 proof (50.5% ABV), this small-batch release is part of Old Elk's renowned Cask Finish Series, showcasing its mastery in secondary barrel aging. The result is a whiskey that bridges the spice of rye with the vibrant character of Caribbean rum.Tasting Notes
- Nose: An inviting bouquet of sugarcane, molasses, and tropical fruits like pineapple, mango, and coconut, complemented by subtle notes of vanilla and herbaceous rye spice.
- Palate: A creamy mouthfeel reveals layers of molasses, brown sugar, and hints of jerk spices that transition into classic rye flavors of caramel, oak, and vanilla. The interplay of rum sweetness and rye spice is beautifully balanced.
- Finish: Long and warming, the finish evolves into tropical sweetness with hints of smokiness, toasted coconut, and a dry wood-spice character.
What Makes It Special
- Unique Rum Cask Finish: Utilizing ex-Barbados rum barrels, this whiskey introduces tropical and sweet notes rarely found in rye, adding depth and intrigue.
- Master Distillery Expertise: Crafted by Greg Metze, a veteran distiller with decades of expertise, it stands out as a bold innovation in the crowded rye whiskey category.
- Limited Edition Appeal: As part of the Cask Finish Series, this release is available for a limited time, offering a unique opportunity for whiskey connoisseurs to enjoy a rare expression.
How to Enjoy
- Neat or On the Rocks: Let the complex flavors shine by enjoying Old Elk Rum Cask Finish Rye Whiskey neat or with a touch of water.
- Elevate Classic Cocktails: Use it as the base for a unique Old Fashioned or Manhattan, where the rum cask influence adds a tropical flair.
- Pair with Desserts: Pair with dark chocolate, rum cake, or caramelized fruits for an indulgent tasting experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mash bill of Old Elk Rum Cask Finish Rye Whiskey?
The mash bill consists of 95% rye and 5% malted barley, a classic high-rye recipe known for its spice-forward flavor profile.
How is this whiskey aged and finished?
Old Elk Rum Cask Finish Rye is initially aged for five years in charred oak barrels, then finished in 14-year-old ex-Barbados rum casks for an additional 2-6 months. This secondary finishing process adds a layer of tropical sweetness and complexity to the whiskey.
What proof is Old Elk Rum Cask Finish Rye Whiskey?
It is bottled at 101 proof (50.5% ABV), which delivers a bold yet balanced drinking experience.
What flavors can I expect from this rye whiskey?
This whiskey offers a blend of classic rye spice, herbal and grassy notes, along with sweet flavors from the rum casks, such as molasses, brown sugar, tropical fruits, and a hint of caramel. The finish is long, featuring allspice, wood spice, and subtle tropical nuances.
Who is the distiller of this whiskey?
Old Elk Rum Cask Finish Rye Whiskey is distilled by MGP in Indiana and expertly finished and blended by Old Elk Distillery in Fort Collins, Colorado, under the guidance of Master Distiller Greg Metze.
What makes the rum cask finish special?
The rum casks previously held 14-year-old Barbados rum, known for its rich, sweet, and complex profile. This unique finishing process integrates molasses and tropical fruit flavors with the spice and herbal tones of the rye whiskey, creating a well-rounded and innovative spirit.
What is the price range of this whiskey?
The suggested retail price is approximately $90-$100 for a 750mL bottle.
How does this whiskey compare to other cask-finished expressions from Old Elk?
The Cask Finish Series also includes Port and Cognac finishes, but the Rum Cask Finish Rye stands out for its tropical sweetness and balance of bold rye spice with rum barrel characteristics. It adds a distinctive, sweeter dimension to Old Elk's offerings.
Where can I purchase Old Elk Rum Cask Finish Rye Whiskey?
It is distributed by Southern Glazer's Wine & Spirits and available at select retailers nationwide. Given its limited availability, it may be worth checking with local stores or online retailers.
Is this whiskey suitable for sipping or cocktails?
Old Elk Rum Cask Finish Rye is versatile. Its smooth, sweet, and spicy profile makes it excellent for sipping neat or on the rocks. It also serves as a unique base for rye whiskey cocktails, adding depth and complexity.
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