The Story Behind WhistlePig Whiskey
WhistlePig was founded in 2007 by entrepreneur Raj Bhakta, who purchased a 500-acre farm in Shoreham, Vermont, with a vision to create exceptional rye whiskey. Committed to reviving the tradition of rye whiskey in America, WhistlePig initially sourced high-quality aged rye before transitioning to distilling its spirits on-site. Their innovative approach, including unique aging processes and a meticulous focus on craftsmanship, has earned them numerous accolades in the whiskey industry, solidifying their reputation as a leader in high-quality rye and bourbon production.
Standout Bottles from WhistlePig
WhistlePig 'The Boss Hog VIII: The One That Made It Around The World' Straight Rye Whiskey
This exceptional whiskey pays homage to the legendary Filipino warrior LapuLapu, known for his resistance against colonial forces. This edition of The Boss Hog features a remarkable aging process, resulting in a complex and bold rye whiskey.
Try it here: WhistlePig Boss Hog VIII
WhistlePig Snout To Tail 10-Year-Old Toasted Bourbon
This unique bourbon combines traditional aging with an innovative secondary barrel-finishing process called the "Two-Headed Toast." Each barrel head is toasted differently—one as the "Snout Toast" and the other as the "Tail Toast"—which imparts distinct characteristics from Vermont oak, creating a one-of-a-kind flavor profile.
Try it here: WhistlePig Snout To Tail 10-Year-Old Bourbon
WhistlePig PiggyBack 6-Year-Old Bourbon Whiskey
With an alcohol by volume of 50%, WhistlePig PiggyBack 6-Year-Old Bourbon is a standout expression that showcases the brand’s dedication to producing exceptional American bourbon. This release invites enthusiasts to experience Vermont’s distilling legacy with a bold, rich flavor profile.
Try it here: WhistlePig PiggyBack 6-Year-Old Bourbon
WhistlePig Bourbon Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is it called WhistlePig?
The name "WhistlePig" originates from an encounter founder Raj Bhakta had with a Frenchman in Colorado, who referred to a groundhog as a "whistle pig." This whimsical term resonated with Bhakta, leading him to name the brand after it, symbolizing the brand’s spirit of uniqueness and tradition.
2. What makes WhistlePig special?
WhistlePig is renowned for its dedication to producing high-quality rye whiskey, known for its bold and complex flavor profile. The brand emphasizes extended aging periods, with expressions such as their 10-year and 12-year ryes allowing for deep flavor development. Additionally, WhistlePig employs unique finishing techniques, including the use of various wine casks, to create distinctive and nuanced whiskey expressions.
3. What does WhistlePig whiskey taste like?
WhistlePig's 10-Year Rye offers a rich nose of allspice, orange peel, anise, oak, char, and caramel. The palate is sweet, featuring caramel and vanilla notes, followed by rye spice and mint, leading to a long, warm finish with butterscotch and caramel undertones.
WhistlePig PiggyBack 6-Year Rye presents aromas of fresh cinnamon, black peppercorn, and citrus zest. On the palate, it delivers powerful spice, balanced with flavors of cocoa, cardamom, and cured leather, finishing with baking spices, vanilla, and citrus hints.
The 12-Year Old World Rye features deep notes of dark stewed fruits, light wood, and apple crisp, which are enhanced by its unique cask finishes, resulting in a sophisticated and well-rounded whiskey experience.
