WhistlePig 12 Year Old World Rye Whiskey 700ml
Straight Rye Whiskey - 43% ABV - Finished in Madeira, Sauternes, and Port Casks | WhistlePig Distillery, Vermont
Experience the art of refined rye whiskey with WhistlePig’s 12 Year Old World Rye, a masterful blend that marries North American rye grain with the sophisticated influence of Old World wine cask finishes. Distilled from 100% rye and aged for 12 years, this expression begins its journey in new American oak barrels before being elegantly finished in a combination of Madeira (63%), Sauternes (30%), and Port (7%) casks. This unique maturation process imparts a rich complexity and layered character that sets it apart in the world of premium rye whiskey.
The nose reveals a poised and expressive bouquet featuring dried fig, orange peel, raisin, and warm baking spices, harmonizing with notes of caramel and honeyed oak. The subtle presence of the wine casks enhances the aroma with nuanced depth rather than overpowering the natural rye profile.
On the palate, the whiskey unfolds with quiet confidence. Flavors of spiced pear, toasted hazelnut, dark chocolate, and ripe plum interplay with rye’s signature pepper and clove notes. The Madeira cask adds a nutty dryness, the Sauternes contributes golden fruit brightness and lift, while the Port cask deepens the experience with subtle richness and complexity.
The finish is long and warming, marked by cinnamon, cocoa, wine-soaked wood, and a soft herbal fade that beautifully reflects the influence of all three wine casks. This deliberate integration of European barrel finishing techniques with American craft results in a rye whiskey that feels both familiar and elevated, bridging tradition with innovation.
Key Features:
- Blends North American rye with Old World wine barrel finishes for a unique flavor profile
- Finished in Madeira, Sauternes, and Port wine casks to enhance complexity and balance
- 12-year aging process delivering rich, layered character and refined elegance
WhistlePig Distillery, located in Vermont, has been a pioneer in reshaping modern rye whiskey since 2007. The 12 Year Old World Rye embodies their commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, offering