Peg Leg Porker Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a masterful creation by award-winning pitmaster Carey Bringle, blending the rich traditions of Southern barbecue with the finesse of premium bourbon. Crafted with an 84% corn mashbill, this 90-proof bourbon is aged in virgin charred oak barrels for at least four years, delivering a full-bodied flavor profile that celebrates Tennessee's whiskey heritage. Its nose features a sweet, smoky aroma reminiscent of barbecued meats, with hints of vanilla and spices, while the palate offers a harmonious mix of caramel, toasted oak, and the spiciness of rye. The finish is smooth and warm, leaving a lingering note of comforting spice. Recognized as the 2023 Bourbon of the Year at the Singapore World Spirits Competition, Peg Leg Porker is the perfect complement to barbecue or a stand-alone indulgence for whiskey connoisseurs.
Process & Profile
Peg Leg Porker Bourbon starts with an expertly crafted mash bill consisting of 84% corn, 8% rye, and 8% malted barley, creating a rich and full-bodied base. What sets this bourbon apart is its hickory charcoal filtering process, a nod to Tennessee's Lincoln County Process. This additional step imparts a distinctive smoky depth to the whiskey while mellowing its character. Aged for 8 years in new charred oak barrels, this bourbon develops a complex flavor profile with layers of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak complemented by subtle spice and smokiness. Bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV), Peg Leg Porker is crafted to perfection and has earned accolades including a Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Enticing aromas of caramel, honey, and subtle smokiness.
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Palate: A rich medley of caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, and a delicate nuttiness with tangy undertones.
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Finish: Smooth, with lingering notes of charred wood and a hint of spice.
What Makes It Special
Peg Leg Porker Bourbon stands out as the creation of Carey Bringle, one of the first pitmasters in the U.S. to launch his own bourbon brand. His passion for barbecue is infused into every bottle, evident in the whiskey's hickory smoke finish. The careful balance of sweet and smoky flavors highlights the artistry of combining bourbon with the essence of barbecue. Additionally, the small-batch production ensures a high standard of quality and exclusivity. This bourbon is not just a drink—it's a celebration of Southern heritage and innovation.
How to Enjoy
Peg Leg Porker Bourbon is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:
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Neat or on the rocks: Appreciate the full spectrum of flavors by sipping it straight or with a touch of water to open up its aromas.
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Classic cocktails: Enhance bourbon cocktails like the Old Fashioned or Manhattan with its smoky depth.
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Pairing with food: Perfectly complements grilled or smoked dishes, especially barbecue, thanks to its smoky and sweet profile.
Whether you're a bourbon enthusiast or looking to explore Tennessee whiskey, Peg Leg Porker Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a must-try. It's more than a drink—it's a flavorful journey into the heart of Southern tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Peg Leg Porker Bourbon unique?
Peg Leg Porker Bourbon is crafted by award-winning pitmaster Carey Bringle, combining his expertise in barbecue with bourbon production. The whiskey features a subtle smoky flavor achieved through a proprietary hickory charcoal filtering process, reflecting its barbecue roots. This unique method imparts a smooth and rich flavor profile that sets it apart from traditional bourbons or Tennessee whiskeys.
Is Peg Leg Porker a Tennessee whiskey or bourbon?
While Peg Leg Porker is produced in Tennessee and adheres to many of the criteria for Tennessee whiskey, it is marketed as a straight bourbon whiskey. The use of hickory charcoal filtration after aging gives it distinctive smoky notes without adhering strictly to the Lincoln County Process required for Tennessee whiskey classification.
What is the flavor profile of Peg Leg Porker Bourbon?
The bourbon offers a full-bodied flavor with notes of caramel, vanilla, smoked oak, and spices. On the nose, it delivers a sweet and woodsy aroma, while the palate reveals a balance of corn sweetness and rye spiciness. The finish is smooth and warm with lingering spice.
How is Peg Leg Porker Bourbon aged?
Peg Leg Porker Bourbon is aged in new charred oak barrels for a minimum of eight years, which allows the whiskey to develop its rich and complex flavors. The aging process varies across its different labels, with offerings aged up to 12 or 15 years for more depth and sophistication.
What awards has Peg Leg Porker Bourbon received?
Peg Leg Porker Bourbon has won several prestigious awards, including a Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition upon its initial release in 2015. Additionally, it was named "World's Best Bourbon" by the Tasting Alliance World Championship in 2023.
What are some recommended cocktails to make with Peg Leg Porker Bourbon?
Peg Leg Porker Bourbon pairs beautifully in a variety of cocktails. Here are some recommendations:
- **Sweet Tea Old Fashioned**: Combine bourbon, sweet tea syrup, bitters, and garnish with an orange peel.
- **Pork & Stormy**: Mix bourbon with ginger beer and a lime wedge.
- **Greenwich Sour**: Blend bourbon, strawberry syrup, lemon, and red wine for an elevated twist.
Where can I buy Peg Leg Porker Bourbon?
Peg Leg Porker Bourbon is available in liquor stores, bars, and restaurants across 13 states, including Tennessee, Georgia, Texas, and New York. It is also distributed in select UK markets. You can visit the Peg Leg Porker Spirits Tasting Room in Nashville, Tennessee, for an in-person experience.
What is the alcohol content of Peg Leg Porker Bourbon?
Peg Leg Porker Bourbon has an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 45%, providing a robust yet smooth drinking experience.
How does Peg Leg Porker Bourbon pair with food?
As created by a pitmaster, Peg Leg Porker Bourbon is an ideal match for barbecue. Its subtle smoky notes and balanced flavor complement smoked meats, grilled dishes, and other savory fare. It also pairs well with desserts featuring vanilla or caramel flavors.
What are the price ranges for Peg Leg Porker Bourbon?
The white-label Peg Leg Porker Bourbon, aged 8 years, is a daily drinker priced around $40. Limited-edition releases, such as the 12-year and 15-year labels, are more exclusive and priced higher based on availability and aging.