Whistle Pig Farmstock Rye Whiskey (700ml)

Rye is a whiskey perhaps best known as the backbone of cocktails like the Manhattan, Sazerac and Old-Fashioned, however the last few decades have seen it regain traditional ground over Bourbon and Tennessee as a standalone spirit. Among the more fanatical protagonists are the team behind WhistlePig. Debuting in the Summer of 2010 to great critical acclaim, the brand started with a passion for rye, an old dairy farm and big ambitions, then turned a leap of faith into what’s become a fan favourite in the American rye whiskey scene.

The hybrid spirits operation in Vermont has previously staked its claim on importing rye whiskey from Alberta to age and bottle. Farmstock Rye represents the distillery in transition. The series started out as numbered batch releases, with the last batch (No.3) considered a landmark because it was the first Whistlepig to include spirit distilled from grain grown on Whistlepig's own farm - however it was still blended with sourced whiskeys. What we have here is more Whistlepig than ever, and one that's become a core expression. The blend is divided up into the distillery's Vermont ryes then filled out with Canadian rye for a well-balanced, easy-drinking profile that's not as spicy or bold as their Boss Hog; instead they've opted for a sweeter, more subtly complex profile with flavours of oak, toffee and baking spices, crème brûlée and hints rose petal. It's a great starting point for drinkers who are new to the category, and broad appeal enough for Bourbon lovers to dig into. 43% Alc./Vol.