First Impressions
WhistlePig 10 — 100% rye mashbill, 100 proof, 10 years. Founded by Raj Bhakta, who purchased farmland in Shoreham, Vermont in 2007. He hired Dave Pickerell — former Maker's Mark Master Distiller — to source and develop the whiskey. Pickerell passed away in 2018, but his legacy lives in every bottle.
From Canada to Vermont
Originally sourced from Alberta Premium Distillery in Canada, now increasingly Vermont-distilled. Vermont on-site distilling began in 2015. Bhakta sold his shares and exited fully in 2019. Despite the ownership changes, the liquid remains excellent.
Tasting
Baked apple and cinnamon nose with honey and citrus. The palate opens with cinnamon and chilli, then sweet maple syrup and honey mid-palate. Bold, spicy, herbal. The finish is spice-filled with lingering rye warmth. The 10 years round the 100% rye without taming it.
The Verdict
WhistlePig 10 earns an 8 — a benchmark rye whiskey that proves 100% rye mashbill can be both bold and refined. At £60, the value is debated, but the awards and quality speak for themselves. Dave Pickerell's Vermont legacy in a bottle.
