WhistlePig The Boss Hog III, called "The Independent", is the 2016 edition of the Vermont producer's top-tier rye. It is a 14-year-old, 100% rye whiskey finished in Scotch hogsheads and bottled at full strength, around 120 proof.
About This Whiskey
Only 30 barrels of 14-year-old rye were used. They were finished in 250-litre hogsheads that had held Scotch and been fitted with new American oak heads. WhistlePig believed it was the first rye whiskey ever finished this way, and Pickerell presented it as sending the favour back to Scotland, whose distillers often use old bourbon casks. Strength varies slightly by barrel, with bottles recorded at 120.1 and 120.6 proof. The stopper is a pewter pig with a cannon.
Tasting Profile
- Nose: Deep rye spice, pine, tobacco, caramel and vanilla.
- Palate: Thick and spicy, with mint, black pepper, cinnamon, tea leaf and a trace of smoke.
- Finish: Long and warm, fading to tobacco, oak and gentle smoke.
Serving & Food
At around 60% ABV, pour a small measure into a Glencairn and add water gradually. The smoky Scotch-cask notes show more after dilution. Serve with smoked duck, venison or a hard sheep's cheese.
How to Enjoy
Rye drinkers who want a bottle to open on a big occasion, and anyone curious how Scotch casks change a mature rye.
Product Details
Producer: WhistlePig
Series: The Boss Hog
Edition: III The Independent (2016)
Style: 100% rye whiskey
Age: 14 years
Finish: Scotch hogsheads (250L) with new American oak heads
Proof: About 120 (varies by barrel)
Batch: 30 barrels
Volume: 750mL
Origin: USA
Region: Shoreham, Vermont
About the Distillery
WhistlePig is based on a farm in Shoreham, Vermont, and made its name with 100% rye whiskey. Its first releases were well-aged rye bought from other distillers, while it planted rye on the farm for its own distilling. The Boss Hog is its top limited series, with each edition chosen from the oldest barrels and finished in a different way.
The Independent was overseen by master distiller Dave Pickerell, who had spent many years as master distiller at Maker's Mark before joining WhistlePig.
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