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Detailed Description
The foundation of this whiskey is Hillrock’s Double Cask Rye, which is made from 100% organic rye grown in the fields surrounding its Hudson Valley, NY distillery. It’s first aged for 2.5 years in a new oak barrel with a No. 3 char, then another year and a half in a new barrel with a No. 4 char. Then Master Distiller Dave Pickerell takes this very whiskey and gives it a 4-6 week nap in ex-port barrels. In essence it’s a triple cask, but “Port Cask Finished Double Cask” is just more fun to say.
Hillrock (Port Cask Finished) Double Cask Rye Whiskey Tasting Notes
Nose: Dried currant and cherry, no doubt imparted by the port barrel finish, are immediately apparent. Warm allspice and nutmeg follow, as well as honey and a hint of smokiness. The nose is sweet overall.
Palate: In contrast with the sweet nose, this whiskey is quite hot on the palate, heavy with spicy cinnamon and rye. The dark fruit notes from the nose make a showing after a moment, against a mildly oaky backdrop.
Finish: Warm, with oak coming through more clearly, along with rye and berries. Some bitterness is present. Pure port remains after a long finish.
Distillery Information
Hillrock Estate Distillery is located in the heart of the historic Hudson Valley, two hours north of New York City, overlooking the distant Berkshire Mountains.