The fascinating spirit represents Anchor Brewing Company’s attempt to re-create the original whiskey of America. This release was distilled in a small copper pot still at Anchor’s distillery on San Francisco’s Potrero Hill, from a mash of 100% rye malt. Rye was the grain of choice for America’s first distillers, and using a mash of 100% rye malt produces a uniquely American whiskey. Aging in handmade oak barrels–lightly toasted in the traditional manner–imparts a wonderfully subtle flavor to this 18th-century-style American whiskey. (In the 18th century, barrels were made by heating the staves over a fire of oak chips, allowing them to be bent and formed into a barrel shape. During this process, the inside of the barrel would become toasted–but not charred.) For aging, Anchor chose several uncharred oak barrels–both new and used–to achieve the balanced complexity that complements this whiskey’s unique heritage.

Old Potrero Single Malt 18th Century Style Whiskey (750ml) ($59.99)