WhistlePig Double Malt 18 Year Rye at 46% ABV, mash bill: 79% rye, 15% malted rye, 6% ma — at $399/ 750ml bottle, the question is whether it delivers on its promise. I sat down with a pour to find out.
Nose
In the glass, this is moderate golden amber with a yellow-green undertone. Theres a subtly to the opening aromatics. It first shows hints of nail polish and shoe polish, suggestive of a faint yet controlled oxidation. These more chemical notes recede with air and develop into notes of toasted walnuts, baseball glove, and lightly toasted rye bread. Theres a floral quality reminiscent of fresh lychee and dandelions. I can detect notes of caramel popcorn, tangerine peels, and cherry pits. There are layers of aromatics that develop over time, which is quite impressive. The whiskey is silky and delicate on the palate, seeming to evaporate on the tongue. Theres a gentle astringent character to palate, which gives it a suggestion of texture. In the mouth, the aromas are sweet and floral, with a spiciness that builds on the palate into waves of star anise, cinnamon, and white pepper. The finish, though not long lasting, shows notes of roasted corn, red cherries, vanilla marshmallows, and candy corn. Water opens up the aromatics into rose petals and freshly baked pumpernickel. I wanted an aha moment like I had had with the 10 Year, but this never seemed to cross over into profound in my blind tasting line up. This is certainly more nuanced than its younger brother, but worth the price jump? Im not completely convinced. I was extremely impressed by the mouthfeel and delicate layers of aromatics, but I would have liked more length to the finish. Give this time in the glass to open up. This is one to savor.
Palate
Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by Whiskeyful or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.
The Bottom Line
WhistlePig Double Malt 18 Year Rye is outstanding — one of those bottles that reminds you why you fell in love with whiskey in the first place. If you see it at $399/ 750ml bottle, do not hesitate. This one earns a permanent spot on the shelf.
