Frequently Asked Questions
Discover the bold character of **Wilderness Trail Single Barrel Rye Bourbon**, crafted with precision in Danville, Kentucky. This exceptional spirit features a mash bill of 56% rye, 33% corn, and 11% malted barley, distilled using a distinctive sweet mash process that highlights its balanced flavor profile. Aged in #4 char 53-gallon barrels at a low-entry proof of 100, this bourbon boasts rich aromas of spice, vanilla, and caramel, complemented by a palate of honey, clove, and a hint of oak. Bottled at cask strength and non-chill filtered, it delivers a robust yet smooth finish with lingering rye spice. Perfect for sipping neat or elevating classic cocktails, this trailblazing whiskey showcases the innovative craftsmanship of Wilderness Trail Distillery.
Process & Profile
Wilderness Trail Single Barrel Rye Bourbon is crafted with precision and innovation, adhering to a sweet mash process that distinguishes it from other ryes. With a mash bill of 56% rye, 33% corn, and 11% malted barley, this whiskey showcases a balanced flavor profile that complements its rye-forward character. Distilled in column stills and barreled at a low entry proof (100 to 105 proof), it matures in air-dried, #4 char 53-gallon barrels on the upper floors of rickhouses to enhance complexity. Aged on average for 4 to 6 years, this single-barrel expression is released at cask strength, highlighting the richness of the distillate.Tasting Notes
- Nose: Expect a captivating bouquet of butterscotch, caramel, and vanilla, accentuated by mint, citrus zest, and faint herbal undertones.
- Palate: The sip opens with a perfect harmony of sweetness and spice, featuring rye-forward notes entwined with candied citrus, maple syrup, and baking spices like clove and anise. Hints of dark fruit, chocolate, and herbal layers add depth.
- Finish: The finish is long and warming, with lingering flavors of rye spice, oak, leather, and subtle sweet tobacco, leaving a satisfying aftertaste.
What Makes It Special
Wilderness Trail Single Barrel Rye stands out due to its commitment to traditional craftsmanship paired with innovative techniques. Key highlights include:- Sweet Mash Process: A proprietary fermentation process for a softer and more flavorful spirit.
- Low Entry Proof: Barreled at one of the lowest proofs in Kentucky, enhancing the extraction of rich flavors.
- Locally Sourced Ingredients: Made with Kentucky-grown Heritage rye and grains from local farms.
- Cask Strength Expression: Bottled straight from the barrel, preserving its full-bodied authenticity.
- Limited Availability: As a single-barrel release, every bottle offers a unique tasting experience, often in limited quantities.
How to Enjoy
Wilderness Trail Single Barrel Rye Bourbon is versatile and can be enjoyed in the following ways:- Neat: Sip it straight to appreciate its full complexity and depth of flavors.
- On the Rocks: Chilling the bourbon slightly can mellow its spicy notes while enhancing its sweet undertones.
- With Water: A few drops of water open up its aromatic layers, making it more approachable.
- Cocktails: Perfect for classic rye-forward cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Manhattan, where its robust character shines through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Wilderness Trail Single Barrel Rye Bourbon unique?
Wilderness Trail Single Barrel Rye Bourbon stands out due to its use of the *sweet mash* process, which allows the natural flavors of the grains to shine through. This process replaces the traditional sour mash method, resulting in a softer, grain-forward finish. Additionally, the whiskey is crafted in small batches and bottled at cask strength for an authentic flavor experience.
What is the mash bill of Wilderness Trail Single Barrel Rye Bourbon?
The mash bill consists of 56% rye, 33% corn, and 11% malted barley. This high rye content gives the whiskey its signature spicy kick while maintaining a balanced flavor profile.
How is Wilderness Trail Single Barrel Rye Bourbon aged?
Each barrel of Wilderness Trail Single Barrel Rye Bourbon is aged for a minimum of four years in charred oak barrels. This aging process enhances the whiskey's complexity, adding notes of oak, caramel, and spice to its profile.
What does Wilderness Trail Single Barrel Rye Bourbon taste like?
This bourbon offers layers of flavor, starting with sweet notes of caramel and vanilla, balanced by rye spice and oak. Tasting notes often highlight flavors like dark cherry, citrus, maple syrup, and baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The finish is long and complex, featuring oak, pepper, and hints of chocolate or tobacco.
What proof is Wilderness Trail Single Barrel Rye Bourbon?
The proof varies slightly depending on the barrel but is typically around 108, offering a robust yet smooth drinking experience.
What pairings work well with Wilderness Trail Single Barrel Rye Bourbon?
This whiskey pairs excellently with bold foods and flavors, such as caramelized pecans, dried cranberries, or even a premium cigar that emphasizes vanilla or cedar spice profiles. It is also a versatile base for classic rye cocktails like the Manhattan or Old Fashioned.
What is the sweet mash process, and why is it used?
The sweet mash process involves fermenting cooked grain with fresh yeast, rather than incorporating backset (leftover mash from previous distillations). This method provides better control over fermentation and enhances the natural grain flavors, resulting in a smoother finish.
Where is Wilderness Trail Single Barrel Rye Bourbon produced?
It is produced at Wilderness Trail Distillery in Danville, Kentucky. The distillery is known for combining modern science with traditional distilling techniques to create high-quality whiskeys.
Can visitors tour the Wilderness Trail Distillery?
Yes, the distillery is open for tours and tastings. It's located on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, making it a popular destination for whiskey enthusiasts. Tours are available Tuesday through Saturday and include a tasting session at the end.
What is the price point of Wilderness Trail Single Barrel Rye Bourbon?
A bottle typically costs between $60 and $75, depending on the retailer. It offers excellent value considering its cask strength and high-quality production process.
Unfortunately, we're unable to ship to PO Boxes and APO addresses.
Adult signature (21+) required upon delivery.
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