Experience the exceptional craftsmanship of WhistlePig 12 Year Old World Rye Whiskey, a unique blend that marries the bold character of American rye with the elegance of Old World wine finishes. This 86-proof, 12-year-aged rye is masterfully finished in a trio of casks—Madeira (63%), Sauternes (30%), and Port (7%)—combining for a symphony of flavors. On the nose, you'll discover rich caramel, vanilla, and winter fruit, while the palate bursts with rye spice balanced by notes of apricots, plums, raisins, and honey. The journey concludes with a luxurious finish of dark chocolate, caramel, and lingering winter fruit. Perfect for sipping neat or paired with gourmet meals, this meticulously crafted whiskey delivers layered complexity and refined smoothness, offering a premium tasting experience like no other.
Process & Profile
WhistlePig's 12 Year Old World Rye Whiskey is a marriage of craftsmanship and careful aging. This 86-proof whiskey begins as a 95% rye distilled in Indiana and is aged for 12 years in new American oak barrels. After its primary aging, it is finished in three distinct casks: Madeira (63%), French Sauternes (30%), and Port (7%). This innovative finishing process elevates its flavor profile with layers of complexity, blending the boldness of American rye with the sophistication of Old World wine casks. The whiskey is then masterfully blended to create a harmonious symphony of flavors, embodying WhistlePig's ethos of refinement and experimentation.
Tasting Notes
Nose: The aroma teases with inviting notes of caramel, vanilla, and winter fruit, paired with hints of herbal rye spice and a touch of earthy mint.
Palate: A vibrant medley of flavors unfolds on the palate. Expect classic rye spice interwoven with dried fruit like plums, apricots, dates, and raisins. Subtle honey and floral accents balance out the sweetness, while nuanced wood and spice notes provide depth.
Finish: The medium-length finish is warm and complex, showcasing dark chocolate, stewed fruits, caramel, and a touch of earthy rye spice for a lingering yet satisfying aftertaste.
What Makes It Special
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Unique Cask Finishing: This whiskey's defining feature is its finishing technique, which utilizes Madeira, Sauternes, and Port wine casks. Each cask imparts a distinct characteristic, from the raisiny richness of Madeira to the bright golden fruits of Sauternes and the subtle berry undertones of Port.
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Old World Meets New World: WhistlePig blends the robust character of American rye with the elegance of European winemaking, creating a one-of-a-kind whiskey experience.
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Artisanal Craftsmanship: From farm-based distillation in Vermont to expert blending, every step of the process reflects WhistlePig's commitment to quality and innovation.
How to Enjoy
WhistlePig 12 Year Old World Rye Whiskey is versatile and can be appreciated in various ways:
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Neat or On the Rocks: Sip it straight to fully experience its intricate flavors, or enjoy it over a big ice cube to mellow its vibrant spice.
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With a Splash of Water: A few drops of water can unlock additional aromas and soften its profile, enhancing its complexity.
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In Cocktails: Use it to elevate classic whiskey cocktails like a Manhattan or an Old Fashioned, allowing its layered flavor to shine.
The WhistlePig 12 Year Old World Rye Whiskey is a masterpiece for connoisseurs and casual whiskey enthusiasts alike. Its bold, multi-dimensional profile and smooth finish make it an essential addition to any whiskey collection. Whether savored alone or shared among friends, this whiskey is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is WhistlePig 12 Year Old World Rye Whiskey?
WhistlePig 12 Year Old World Rye Whiskey is a premium rye whiskey aged for 12 years and finished in an innovative blend of Madeira (63%), Sauternes (30%), and Port (7%) wine casks. This finish imparts unique fruity and spicy flavors, blending the boldness of American rye with the elegance of European wine barrel aging. It is bottled at 86 proof (43% ABV).
What does it taste like?
This whiskey offers a complex flavor profile:
- **Nose**: Caramel, vanilla, and winter fruit.
- **Palate**: Rye spice, apricots, plums, raisins, dates, and honey.
- **Finish**: Lingering notes of dark chocolate, caramel, winter fruit, and vanilla.
How should I enjoy WhistlePig 12 Year Old World Rye Whiskey?
The whiskey is best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to enhance its intricate flavors. It can also be served on the rocks or used in classic cocktails like a Manhattan or Sazerac for a rich, sophisticated twist.
What sets this whiskey apart?
- **Innovative Cask Finishing**: Aged in three types of wine casks—Madeira, Sauternes, and Port—providing layered and nuanced flavors not commonly found in rye whiskey.
- **Craftsmanship**: Distilled in Canada and aged at WhistlePig's Vermont farm, it reflects a combination of Canadian distillation techniques and American aging traditions.
- **Rye Mashbill**: Made from 95% rye and 5% malted barley, ensuring bold rye characteristics.
Is WhistlePig 12 Year Old World Rye suitable for aging at home?
Once bottled, whiskey does not age further. However, proper storage away from light and temperature fluctuations ensures the whiskey retains its quality over time.
Where can I purchase this whiskey?
WhistlePig 12 Year Old World Rye Whiskey is available at select retailers and online liquor stores. Due to its premium nature, availability may vary, so checking with local distributors or using WhistlePig's store locator is recommended.
Why is rye whiskey celebrated?
Rye is prized for its bold, spicy flavor and versatility in both sipping and cocktails. WhistlePig 12 Year Old World Rye elevates these classic rye characteristics with its unique finishing process, making it a standout choice for whiskey enthusiasts.
