WhistlePig Whiskey has made waves in the world of spirits with its innovative approach to rye whiskey, and their latest release is no exception. The Vermont-based distillery has teamed up with the renowned Shafer Vineyards from Napa Valley to create the WhistlePig 12 Single Barrel Rye Whiskey Aged in Shafer Cabernet Sauvignon Barrels. This limited-edition whiskey is a bold, flavorful collaboration between two respected names in their industries, combining the best of both whiskey and wine worlds.
Image credit: WhistlePig Whiskey
A Unique Blend of Whiskey and Wine
At the heart of this special release is WhistlePig’s 12-year-old rye whiskey, sourced from Alberta Distillers in Canada. This particular rye is well-known for its deep, rich flavors, and is typically finished in a blend of Madeira, Sauternes, and Port barrels. However, for the Shafer Edition, WhistlePig simplified the process and allowed the whiskey to age for an additional 32 months in 60-gallon French oak barrels that previously held Shafer Vineyards' 100% Cabernet Sauvignon. This long aging period in these wine barrels infuses the whiskey with layers of rich, fruity notes.
The collaboration is not a typical cask-finishing experiment; the choice to age the rye in wine barrels specifically from Shafer Vineyards, a winery that routinely earns top ratings for its Cabernet, takes this whiskey to a new level. Shafer’s Cabernets are among the best in the world, often garnering 98 to 100 points from critics, making these barrels a perfect complement to WhistlePig’s bold rye whiskey.
The Flavor Experience
The result of this collaboration is a whiskey that offers a distinct and complex flavor profile. According to WhistlePig’s Head Blender, Meghan Ireland, this whiskey has the power to turn even a wine drinker into a whiskey enthusiast with just one sip. The rye whiskey itself retains its robust, spicy character, but the influence of the Cabernet Sauvignon barrels adds layers of fruit and sweetness to the mix.
On the nose, drinkers are met with the aromas of sweet apple, berry preserves, and cedar, setting the stage for a taste experience that is both familiar and unexpected. The palate delivers notes of sweet cherry, raspberry jelly, cinnamon, and a hint of citrus zest, all balanced by the underlying spice of the rye. The long finish brings everything together, with the sweetness fading into a dry, structured note of cedar, leaving a lasting impression on the taste buds.
A Limited Release with a Big Impact
One of the most exciting aspects of the WhistlePig 12 Single Barrel Rye Whiskey–Shafer Edition is its exclusivity. This is a single-barrel release, meaning that each bottle may have slight variations depending on the specific barrel it was drawn from. Only eight barrels were produced for this release, making it a rare find for whiskey enthusiasts.
This limited-edition whiskey is not only available in select retail stores but is also being featured at high-end dining establishments across the country, just in time for the fall season. As Meghan Ireland mentioned, the whiskey pairs perfectly with a great fall dinner, making it a must-try for both whiskey lovers and wine aficionados alike.
A Perfect Partnership
The partnership between WhistlePig and Shafer Vineyards represents a new frontier in whiskey innovation. Elias Fernandez, winemaker at Shafer for over 40 years, expressed his excitement about this project, noting that it was the first collaboration of its kind for the winery. He personally inspects each barrel used for aging their Cabernet, ensuring the highest level of quality, and was thrilled to see them used for such a unique project.
Fernandez’s expertise, combined with WhistlePig’s bold approach to barrel aging, has resulted in a whiskey that offers something truly special. This release continues WhistlePig’s tradition of pushing the boundaries of what rye whiskey can be, while honoring the craftsmanship of Shafer Vineyards' esteemed Cabernet.
Conclusion
For whiskey and wine lovers alike, the WhistlePig 12 Single Barrel Rye Whiskey–Shafer Edition is a unique opportunity to experience the best of both worlds. The collaboration between Vermont’s WhistlePig and Napa Valley’s Shafer Vineyards has produced a whiskey that is rich, complex, and layered with flavor, making it a standout release for the fall season. With only eight barrels available, this is a limited edition that whiskey enthusiasts should seek out while they still can.
Whether you’re enjoying it neat, on the rocks, or pairing it with a fine meal, this whiskey is sure to leave a lasting impression and might just convert a few wine drinkers into whiskey lovers along the way.
About WhistlePig
WhistlePig Distillery is a prominent and highly regarded producer of American whiskey, primarily known for its exceptional rye whiskey offerings. Located in Shoreham, Vermont, the distillery has gained a reputation for its commitment to quality, innovation, and the art of crafting premium spirits.
At the heart of WhistlePig's identity is its dedication to rye whiskey, a category that has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years. The distillery takes pride in sourcing the finest rye grains, often referred to as the "grain with a backbone," which contribute to the distinct and bold flavors found in their spirits.
One of WhistlePig's standout products is its 100% Straight Rye Whiskey, which has received critical acclaim for its complexity, balance, and depth of flavor. These whiskeys are often aged for an extended period, allowing them to develop rich, spicy, and robust characteristics that have garnered a dedicated following among whiskey enthusiasts.
WhistlePig is also known for its commitment to the concept of "farm-to-bottle" whiskey production. The distillery takes a holistic approach to crafting its spirits, from sourcing rye grains from its own farm to producing whiskey entirely on-site. This approach allows for greater control over the entire production process, ensuring the highest quality and a unique sense of terroir in their whiskey.
In addition to its core rye whiskey offerings, WhistlePig has released limited-edition and experimental expressions that have captivated connoisseurs and collectors alike. These special releases often showcase different aging techniques, unique cask finishes, and innovative flavor profiles, demonstrating the distillery's willingness to push the boundaries of traditional whiskey-making.
Visitors to the WhistlePig Distillery in Vermont can enjoy tours and tastings, providing insight into the distillation process, the importance of rye grain, and the craftsmanship behind their products. The distillery's picturesque setting, nestled in the Vermont countryside, adds to the overall experience, making it a sought-after destination for whiskey aficionados.
In summary, WhistlePig Distillery is a respected and innovative player in the American whiskey industry, celebrated for its dedication to rye whiskey, commitment to quality, and pioneering approach to whiskey production. With a focus on craft, flavor, and tradition, WhistlePig continues to be a trailblazer in the world of American spirits.
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