Power-Packed and Potent: A Whistle Pig to Remember

Whistle Pig 10 Year Old “K&L Exclusive” 118.2 Proof Single Barrel Cask Strength Straight Rye Whiskey 
“Of the four exclusive Whistle Pig barrels we’ve purchased over the last four months, this expression is the biggest, boldest, and most complex.” – David Driscoll, K&L Spirits Buyer

When it comes to artisanally-crafted rye whiskey you simply won’t do much better than Whistle Pig. Since its founding in back in 2007, this Vermont-based distiller has quickly become the go-to choice for rye aficionados from around the globe. There are plenty of reasons for this, but chief among them is the raw potency these whiskies possess. These are no-nonsense bottlings that beautifully highlight the robust, spicy character of Rye while at the same time offering unparalleled smoothness. As the distillery puts it, they are a linebacker and a ballerina all rolled into one.

Hence, we jumped when we were given the opportunity to secure four exclusive casks from Whistle Pig and offer them over the course of the winter. The first three casks came and went in a flash, but don’t fret if you haven’t had a chance to enjoy one of these beauties. The fourth, and arguably the best, has just arrived. Power packed at an impressive 59.1% ABV, this 10-year-old expression is not for the faint of heart. With a modest splash of water it really begins to shine, revealing a delightful melange of sweet and savory flavors including vanilla, graham cracker, dill, and freshly cracked black pepper. For those who love deeply complex and layered whiskies, this 10-year-old rendition is right on the money. As with the previous casks, we expect this fourth installment to sell in no time, so don’t delay in securing yours today.

For more on this singular bottling, check our our recent Spirits Journal post.

Whistle Pig 10 Year Old “K&L Exclusive” 118.2 Proof Single Barrel Cask Strength Straight Rye Whiskey (750ml) ($89.99)

This is the fourth and final cask from our Winter edition single barrels of Whistle Pig 10 year and this particular cask comes in at over 118 proof and packs a big dollop of both sweet and savory spices in addition to all the rich oak flavors and vanilla. With dill, pepper, and sweet baking spices on the finish, this 59.1% beast of a whiskey brings the power and the punch for those who like their rye potent. It starts with rich and decadent aromas of vanilla and sweet oak, but it ends with a fireworks display of savory and herbaceous splendor.

David Driscoll | K&L Staff Member | Review Date: March 19, 2018

Of the four exclusive Whistle Pig barrels we’ve purchased over the last four months, this 59.1% ABV expression is the biggest, boldest, and most complex. There’s an equal amount of big sweet vanilla, dill, and peppery herbaceous character in full effect. The near-120-proof heat makes this whiskey a powerful beast to deal with, and there’s a lot to unlock with a few drops of water. There’s a graham cracker finish that bolsters the clean rye flavor with beautiful balance, making this easily the best rye whiskey in the store right now. It’s quite special.