WhistlePig 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey: A Premium Rye Whiskey with a Storied Past
WhistlePig 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey is an award-winning rye whiskey that has gained a reputation for its exceptional smoothness and complex flavor profile. Produced by WhistlePig Farm in Shoreham, Vermont, this whiskey is crafted using a combination of traditional techniques and modern innovation, resulting in a truly remarkable spirit.
History and Origin
The story of WhistlePig begins with a Vermont farmer named Raj Peter Bhakta. In 2007, Bhakta purchased a dilapidated farm in Shoreham and embarked on a mission to revive the local rye whiskey industry. He named the farm WhistlePig after the wild pigs that roamed the surrounding forests.
Bhakta partnered with master distiller Dave Pickerell to create a rye whiskey that would showcase the unique terroir of Vermont. They sourced high-quality rye grains from local farmers and aged the whiskey in charred oak barrels for a minimum of 10 years.
Production Process
WhistlePig 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey is made using a carefully controlled production process that ensures the highest quality and consistency. The rye grains are milled and mashed before being fermented with a proprietary yeast strain. The resulting mash is then double-distilled in copper pot stills.
The whiskey is aged in new, charred oak barrels. The barrels are stored in a climate-controlled warehouse where they are exposed to extreme temperature fluctuations. This aging process allows the whiskey to develop its characteristic flavor and complexity.
Flavor Profile
WhistlePig 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey is known for its rich and full-bodied flavor profile. On the nose, it offers aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and toasted oak. On the palate, it is smooth and velvety with notes of caramel, honey, and spice. The finish is long and lingering, leaving a pleasant warmth and a hint of vanilla.
Awards and Recognition
WhistlePig 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey has received numerous awards and accolades, including:
- Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (2020)
- Gold Medal at the International Wine & Spirit Competition (2019)
- 95 Points from Wine Enthusiast (2022)
Serving Suggestions
WhistlePig 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a variety of classic cocktails. Some popular serving suggestions include:
- Manhattan: Combine 2 ounces of WhistlePig 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey, 1 ounce of sweet vermouth, and 2 dashes of bitters in a mixing glass. Stir with ice and strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a cherry.
- Old Fashioned: Combine 2 ounces of WhistlePig 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey, 1 sugar cube, and 2 dashes of bitters in a rocks glass. Muddle until the sugar is dissolved. Add ice and stir to chill. Garnish with an orange peel.
- Sazerac: Combine 2 ounces of WhistlePig 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey, 1 ounce of absinthe, and a dash of Peychaud's bitters in a mixing glass. Rinse a chilled rocks glass with absinthe and discard the excess. Strain the cocktail into the chilled glass and garnish with a lemon twist.
Conclusion
WhistlePig 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey is a premium rye whiskey that has earned a place among the world's finest spirits. Its exceptional flavor profile, award-winning quality, and rich history make it a must-try for any whiskey enthusiast. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail, WhistlePig 10 Year Old Rye Whiskey is sure to impress and delight.