Spring is in the Air: New Whiskey Releases to Warm Your Spirits
As the weather starts to warm up, whiskey enthusiasts have plenty to be excited about. This week, we’re seeing a flurry of new releases from some of the biggest names in the industry. From Basil Hayden’s popular Subtle Smoke expression to Barrell Craft Spirits’ innovative Mizunara finish, there’s something for everyone.
Basil Hayden Subtle Smoke: A Smooth and Smoky Delight
Image: Basil Hayden Subtle Smoke
Basil Hayden, a brand owned by Jim Beam, has brought back its popular Subtle Smoke expression, much to the delight of bourbon fans. This whiskey is distilled from the brand’s signature high-rye mash bill and matured in American white oak barrels, before being finished in toasted and lightly charred barrels infused with a special smoke made from hickory chips. The result is a smooth spirit with a subtle, yet intriguing hint of smoke.
On the nose, you’ll find mellow smoke with a hint of vanilla, while the palate is soft char with light sweetness reminiscent of caramel and apple. The finish is crisp yet delicate, with light toasted hickory wood. With an RRP of $49.99, this limited-edition release is a must-try for any whiskey enthusiast.
Barrell Craft Spirits Cask Finish Series: Mizunara - A Rare and Exotic Treat
Image: Barrell Craft Spirits Mizunara
Barrell Craft Spirits, which recently launched in the UK, has expanded its Cask Finish Series with the release of a new Mizunara finished bourbon. This bourbon is a blend of whiskeys from three different states, with varying age statements. The derived mash bill is comprised of 76% corn, 20% rye, and 4% malted barley.
The whiskeys were married together before being finished in Mizunara casks for one and a half years. Mizunara, a species of oak native to Japan, is notoriously rare and difficult to work with, but yields fantastic results, including distinctive notes of sandalwood and Japanese incense.
On the nose, expect aromas of strawberry, golden raisin, amontillado sherry, and a touch of sawdust. Then, sweeter notes of honey, vanilla, sugar cookie, and white peach appear, followed by cocoa, cherry, oiled leather, toasted corn, and palo santo. The palate is defined by herbaceous notes of lemongrass, star anise, and peppermint striking first. Honey, sweet cornbread, and dates appear, followed by galangal and a woodsy note.
With an RRP of $84.99, this cask-strength bourbon is a rare and exotic treat for any whiskey connoisseur.
George Dickel Bottled-In-Bond 12 Year Old - A Masterclass in Whiskey Making
Image: George Dickel Bottled-In-Bond 12 Year Old
George Dickel has expanded its award-winning Bottled-In-Bond series with the release of a 12 Year Old. This whiskey was distilled in Spring 2011 from a mash bill of 84% corn, 8% rye, and 8% malted barley. The whiskey was charcoal-mellowed before being bottled at 100 proof at 12 years old.
Tasting notes feature notes of overripe cherries, macadamia nut cookies, and toasted oak. This expression won a Double Gold medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, and it’s easy to see why.
With an RRP of $44.99, this Bottled-In-Bond release is a testament to the quality of George Dickel’s inventory and the commitment to consistently producing outstanding whiskey.
These new releases are a great way to warm up to the new season. Whether you’re a fan of smooth and smoky bourbon or rare and exotic finishes, there’s something for everyone. So, go ahead and treat yourself to a bottle (or two) and enjoy the warm weather in style.
