Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey combines exceptional craftsmanship with a rich heritage dating back to the 1850s. Distilled, aged, and bottled in Kentucky, this rye boasts a mashbill of 95% rye and 5% malted barley, delivering a bold yet smooth flavor profile. At 90 proof, this whiskey offers an inviting nose of crisp apples, citrus, and toasted oak, balanced by a complex palate of vanilla, spearmint, white pepper, and pear, with a gently dry finish marked by oak and rye spice. Non-chill filtered and aged for a minimum of two years, it comes in an eye-catching prohibition-era bottle, making it perfect for collectors and enthusiasts alike. Whether enjoyed neat or in a classic cocktail, this whiskey is a celebration of tradition and taste.
Process & Profile
Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey is distilled, aged, and bottled in Kentucky, using a mash bill of 95% rye and 5% malted barley. It undergoes a meticulous distillation process, including column distillation followed by aging in Level 3 charred American oak barrels. This brings out the rye's characteristic spiciness while balancing it with softer notes. Bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV), the whiskey also remains non-chill filtered, preserving its natural oils and esters for an unadulterated flavor experience. The brand's iconic pre-Prohibition-style bottle design adds to its charm, exemplifying both authenticity and sophistication.
Tasting Notes
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Appearance: Rich caramel with golden amber highlights.
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Nose: A symphony of herbaceous and fruity aromas, with spearmint, vanilla, rye bread, apricot, and citrus zest, complemented by hints of sage and toasted oak.
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Palate: A bold blend of spicy rye, caramel, vanilla, and gentle bursts of white pepper and citrus. The creamy texture is enhanced by toffee, sage, and a light herbal undertone.
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Finish: A smooth, lingering finish marked by oak, rye spice, spearmint, and subtle apricot sweetness, offering a medium complexity.
What Makes It Special
Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey stands out for its heritage and craftsmanship. Originally founded in 1856 and revived in 2013 by Grain & Barrel Spirits, Chicken Cock boasts a storied history. It was a favorite during Prohibition and has been reimagined for the modern whiskey enthusiast. The partnership with Bardstown Bourbon Company ensures exceptional quality, bringing together state-of-the-art distillation techniques and a classic 19th-century recipe. Its commitment to authenticity is further showcased by its non-chill filtration and iconic packaging.
How to Enjoy
This versatile rye whiskey shines in various scenarios:
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Neat or On the Rocks: Savor the full complexity of its flavors for a refined sipping experience.
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Cocktails: Its balance of spice and sweetness makes it an excellent base for classics like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan, where its herbal undertones add depth.
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Pairing Suggestions: Pair it with earthy cigars or dried fruit for an enhanced tasting journey, allowing its notes of vanilla, rye spice, and oak to complement the pairing.
Conclusion
Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. From its rich flavor profile to its historic roots, it offers an exceptional rye experience for whiskey lovers. Whether enjoyed during celebrations, intimate gatherings, or as a gift, each sip tells a tale of craftsmanship and legacy. Elevate your whiskey collection today with this bold and sophisticated rye.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey?
Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey is a premium rye whiskey distilled, aged, and bottled in Kentucky. Known for its rich caramel hue, it features a flavor profile with spicy rye, vanilla, caramel, and herbal notes, offering a bold and sophisticated drinking experience. It is crafted from a mash bill of 95% rye and 5% malted barley, aged for a minimum of two years in charred new American oak barrels, and bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV) without chill filtration.
What does Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey taste like?
The whiskey offers a complex palate with bold flavors of spicy rye, pear, vanilla, spearmint, and caramel, paired with subtler notes of toasted oak and white pepper. It finishes smoothly with a touch of dryness, black tea tannins, and a gentle peppery warmth, making it equally enjoyable neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails.
What is the history behind Chicken Cock Whiskey?
Chicken Cock Whiskey has a long heritage dating back to 1856 in Paris, Kentucky. During Prohibition, it gained fame as "The Whiskey in a Tin Can," smuggled into speakeasies like the Cotton Club in New York City. The brand experienced a decline after World War II but was revived in 2012 by Grain & Barrel Spirits, ensuring the preservation of its rich history while maintaining exceptional quality.
How should Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey be served?
This rye whiskey shines when enjoyed neat or on the rocks to appreciate its full-bodied flavors. It's also an excellent choice for classic cocktails like a Manhattan or Old Fashioned, where its spicy and herbaceous profile adds depth and balance to the drink.
What makes Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey unique?
Several factors contribute to its uniqueness:
- The high rye content (95%) in the mash bill creates an intensely spicy and complex profile.
- It is distilled and aged in Kentucky, using pure limestone-filtered water and charred new American oak barrels, optimizing flavor development.
- The whiskey is bottled without chill filtration to retain its rich textures and aromatics.
- It brings historical charm with its Prohibition-era reputation and continued commitment to craftsmanship and quality.
Is Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey award-winning?
Yes, Chicken Cock Whiskey has received numerous accolades over the years, including Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and high ratings from industry reviewers, solidifying its position as a premium rye option.
What food pairs well with Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey?
This rye whiskey pairs wonderfully with smoked meats like brisket, aged cheeses such as gouda or cheddar, and dark chocolate for a sweet contrast. Its spiced profile also complements flavors like caramel desserts or tangy dishes like pickled vegetables, elevating any culinary experience.
Is there a story behind the name "Chicken Cock"?
Yes, the name dates back to the whiskey's origin in 1856. Despite the unconventional name, Chicken Cock has a storied legacy as "The Famous Old Brand," cherished for its bold flavors and historical significance during the Prohibition era. The brand proudly embraces its unique identity.