Sunday, August 23, 2015

WhistlePig Old World Rye

WhistlePig Old World was released in June of 2015. While Whistle Pig didn't distill this rye, they did double barrel, blend, and bottle it at their farm in Shoreham, Vermont. This 'Old World' rye whiskey is a blend that has been finished in three different wine casks; 63% in Madeira casks, 30% in French Sauternes, and 7% in Port casks. 

Details:
86 proof
12 years old

Nose: A combination of red fruits reminiscent of a homemade jam. Bright rye spice, maple syrup, subtle char, and a nice herbal undertone.   

Taste: Complex and flavorful. White Zinfandel entry which moves into pepper spice, roasted grains, and a subtle cotton candy.  

Finish: Extremely smooth with rye spice, oak, and a lingering fruitiness.  

Conclusion: There is a lot of complexity with WhistlePig Old World. The red fruits and rye spice make for a sweet/spicy whiskey that is uniquely balanced. That being said, you guys know how I feel about whiskey finished in wine barrels, and at $130 a bottle, this isn't something I can justify pulling the trigger on. 

My Rating: B (Good) 

Saturday, August 8, 2015

Old Ezra Rare Old Bourbon

Old Ezra, Rare Old "Sippin Whiskey" Bourbon is not often spoken about in whiskey circles, however I do believe it is the hidden gem of the Ezra Brooks Distilling CO. At a robust proof and age, it offers a bold flavored whiskey that is certainly able to shine when being enjoyed neat.

Details:
-7 years old
-101 proof
-Price: $16

Nose: Butter cream, corn, rye spice, burnt oak.

Taste: Full bodied with a chewy mouth feel. Sweet corn, maple, caramel. 

Finish: Smooth with sweet maple and burnt oak. 

Conclusion: This is a good bourbon that I don't mind drinking neat. At 101 proof and 7 years in the wood, the flavors are satisfyingly bold. The best thing about this bourbon is its price tag of $16; an unreal value for whats inside the bottle! While it may be hard to find, if you stumble across a bottle of Old Ezra Rare Old "sippin whiskey", pick it up because your taste buds -and your wallet- will happy you did. 

My Rating: B (Good)



Bourbon Brothers Review: