Barrell Craft Spirits Seagrass Rye Whiskey is a masterful blend of American and Canadian rye whiskeys, uniquely finished in a trio of carefully curated casks: Martinique Rhum Agricole, apricot brandy, and Madeira barrels. This innovative rye shines with a symphony of flavors, encompassing bright tropical fruits, grassy herbal undertones, and a touch of coastal salinity, all complemented by the spicy warmth of rye. Expect vibrant notes of pear, apricot, honeydew melon, and white grapefruit, balanced with hints of cinnamon, rosemary, and a delicate floral finish. Bottled at cask strength, Seagrass offers a luxurious, layered tasting experience that is as bold as it is refined. Crafted for the adventurous whiskey enthusiast, this iconic spirit encapsulates the artistry of blending and the allure of global influences in every sip.
Process & Profile
Barrell Craft Spirits Seagrass Rye Whiskey is a groundbreaking blend of American and Canadian rye whiskeys. What sets this whiskey apart is its meticulous cask-finishing process. Each component is individually aged in Martinique Rhum Agricole casks, Madeira barrels, and apricot brandy casks before being expertly blended. This innovative approach creates a spirit that balances tropical, spicy, and herbaceous flavors, reflecting the expertise Barrell Craft Spirits has come to be known for.
The whiskey boasts a cask-strength ABV of 59.56% (118 proof), delivering an unfiltered and complex character. Its luminous golden hue hints at the rich experience that awaits in each sip.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: The aroma is bright and inviting, showcasing tropical and orchard fruits like honeydew melon, ripe apricot, and plum. A salty, grassy salinity and floral notes from Rhum Agricole add depth.
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Palate: The palate is a juicy medley of pear, lychee, and white grapefruit, balanced with classic rye spices such as cinnamon, fennel seed, and rosemary. A sandy texture and delicate astringency transition the flavors beautifully.
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Finish: The finish features a long-lasting blend of rye spice, camphor, chalk dust, and earthy notes. These are complemented by a lingering sweetness from the apricot brandy and the bright acidity of Madeira.
What Makes It Special
Barrell Seagrass isn't just a rye whiskey—it's an experience. The combination of three unique cask finishes transforms the traditional rye profile into something tropical, aromatic, and delightfully complex. Barrell Craft Spirits, based in Louisville, Kentucky, prioritizes blending excellence over distillation. Their ability to fuse these vibrant flavors into a harmonious whiskey sets Seagrass apart as a truly unique offering in the whiskey world.
The whiskey pays homage to "coastal memories," evoking imagery of ocean breezes, sandy beaches, and aromatic vegetation. Its layered profile is an ode to both nature and craftsmanship, making it a standout among rye whiskeys.
How to Enjoy
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Neat: Best enjoyed neat to appreciate its vibrant and complex finish. The concentrated flavors provide a full-bodied experience perfect for sipping.
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Splash of Water: Adding a few drops of water softens the alcohol and enhances the Madeira and brandy's fruity, candied notes.
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Cocktails: Barrell Seagrass elevates classic rye whiskey cocktails like the Manhattan or Old Fashioned by adding a tropical twist. Its unique flavor combinations create an exciting base for mixology.
Conclusion
Barrell Craft Spirits Seagrass Rye Whiskey is the epitome of creative blending and innovative maturation. From its tropical aroma to its complex palate and long finish, it offers something remarkable for both seasoned whiskey enthusiasts and adventurous newcomers. Whether enjoyed neat, with water, or in a cocktail, Barrell Seagrass transforms every sip into an exploration of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Barrell Seagrass Rye Whiskey made of?
Barrell Seagrass is a blend of meticulously sourced American and Canadian rye whiskeys. Each component whiskey is finished separately in Martinique Rhum Agricole casks, apricot brandy casks, and Madeira barrels. This unique process creates a multi-layered flavor profile.
What does Barrell Seagrass taste like?
The whiskey delivers a vibrant and complex array of flavors. On the nose, expect fruity notes like honeydew melon, plum, and apricot, complemented by herbal rye aromas. The palate opens with tropical flavors such as pear, lychee, and white grapefruit, balanced with classic rye spices like cinnamon and rosemary. The finish is clean but bold, with lingering camphor, chalk, and earthy undertones.
What is the proof of Barrell Seagrass Rye Whiskey?
Barrell Seagrass is bottled at cask strength and typically ranges between 118.4 proof (59.2% ABV) to 119.3 proof (59.6% ABV) depending on the batch. This high proof enhances the intensity and depth of the flavors.
How can I enjoy Barrell Seagrass Rye Whiskey?
Barrell Seagrass is versatile and can be enjoyed in several ways:
- *Neat:* To experience its full complexity.
- *With a splash of water:* To open up subtle flavors and aromas.
- *In cocktails:* It adds a unique twist to classics like a Manhattan or Old Fashioned.
What makes Barrell Seagrass unique compared to other rye whiskeys?
Its distinctive finishing process using three different barrel types—Martinique Rhum Agricole, apricot brandy, and Madeira—results in a bold, tropical, and spicy flavor profile unlike traditional rye whiskeys. Additionally, it is non-chill filtered and bottled at cask strength, preserving its full intensity.
Where is Barrell Seagrass Rye Whiskey produced?
It is crafted by Barrell Craft Spirits, an independent blender and bottler based in Louisville, Kentucky. The company is renowned for its innovation in blending and finishing techniques.
What awards has Barrell Seagrass won?
Barrell Seagrass has received significant recognition, including a Double Gold at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, highlighting its exceptional quality.
What is the price of Barrell Seagrass Rye Whiskey?
The suggested retail price for Barrell Seagrass is approximately $89.99, though it may vary by store and location.
How should I store Barrell Seagrass Rye Whiskey?
Store it in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperature changes. Keep the bottle upright to prevent the cork from deteriorating and tightly sealed to maintain its flavor.
Is Barrell Seagrass a limited release?
Yes, every batch of Barrell Seagrass is a limited release, with each batch featuring slight variations in flavor due to the blending and finishing processes. This ensures every bottle is unique.
