Trent-Thomas
WhistlePig 15 Year Estate Oak Rye
Rye — (bottled in) Vermont, Canada
Reviewed
January 3, 2021 (edited July 5, 2022)
The Whistle 15 brings the mash bill back to 100% rye, it also reintroduces the aroma of sweet (caramel, vanilla, or toffee) with an oaky/wood complexity.
Aromatics—immediately the sweet aromas (caramel, vanilla, toffee) are noticeable, in tow are a wood (oak) and subtle buttery notes. Several sniffs in, it reminded me of a kettle corn aroma which drove my taste buds mad.
Taste—the taste is fairly complex as there was a lot to unpack, in the first go my start was warm welcoming sweet caramel/vanilla flavor that was quickly interrupted by notes of spice and pepper. In my second taste, it was much smoother, and welcoming as I could anticipate the intense/complex change of characteristics. The warm welcome of sweet caramel was more welcoming in transition of heat from the rye and spice from the peppery notes, minor hints of herbal/earthy notes accompany a semi-complex finish that dribbles a small dribble of caramel sweetness that leads you wanting more.
The WP15 is definitely a more complex and intimidating dram, while the aromatics are fantastic and are well put together. The taste is a charismatic flow of multiple flavors from sweet caramel, to pepper and herbal/earthy notes that stick with your palette much longer than the WP10; the lingering taste leaves you wanting another go. Fans of the WP10 may be left wanting more of the velvety vanilla forward notes that dominate the experience for an easy sipper—meanwhile the WP15 is more complex, adventurous, and rewarding dram with each taste. For the price it may not offer enough to justify the amount—be advised.
— a scotch guy”
220.0
USD
per
Bottle
Sacramento
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