When it comes to distinctive and sought-after whiskey releases, Orphan Barrel has made a name for itself. From their elusive bourbon selections to their latest endeavor with rye, Orphan Barrel continues to captivate whiskey enthusiasts. In this blog post, we delve into the world of Orphan Barrel’s Scarlet Shade, their first rye release, and explore the unique character it brings to the table. We also shed light on the fascinating journey of the Orphan Barrel project, launched by Diageo in 2013, with a mission to uncover forgotten barrels of whiskey.
The Orphan Barrel Story: The Orphan Barrel project, initiated by Diageo, embarked on a mission to unearth lost and forgotten barrels of whiskey from around the world. The goal was to revive these hidden gems, showcasing their exceptional qualities and sharing their stories with whiskey enthusiasts. Scarlet Shade is a testament to the project’s commitment to preserving whiskey history while providing an exceptional drinking experience.
Scarlet Shade: A Rye Whiskey with Distinctive Origins: Scarlet Shade marks a significant milestone for Orphan Barrel as their first foray into the realm of rye whiskey. Crafted with meticulous care, this unique spirit was distilled in Indiana, aged at the legendary Stitzel-Weller Distillery in Kentucky, and ultimately bottled in Tennessee. The specific distillery in Indiana remains undisclosed, although it is widely believed to be sourced from MGP, known for their quality distillation practices.
Tasting Notes: Scarlet Shade presents an enticing nose, marrying sweet and spicy scents to create an inviting aroma. Rye spice takes the forefront, while toasted oak provides a subtle nod to its aging process. Ripe pear, apple, and baking spices weave together harmoniously, offering a delightful contrast of flavors. A fleeting hint of dill adds an intriguing touch to the overall experience.
On the palate, Scarlet Shade reveals a richness and full-flavored character uncommon for a 90-proof whiskey. The rye spice takes center stage, forming the backbone of the sip. Succulent raspberries and blackberries contribute a fruity balance, accompanied by a hint of orange marmalade. Delicate aged oak lingers in the background, adding depth and complexity. The resulting flavor profile showcases the rye’s maturity and balance, leading to a satisfying and memorable sip.
The Finish and Uniqueness: As the rye spice gradually transitions from the palate, baking spices resurface, creating a warm and lingering finish. Stone fruit offers a touch of sweetness, complemented by a subtle note of caramel. While the finish maintains the high quality found throughout the sip, it doesn’t introduce any entirely new elements. Nevertheless, its refined and consistent profile is a testament to the overall craftsmanship of Scarlet Shade.
Orphan Barrel’s Continued Pursuit of Exceptional Whiskey: The Scarlet Shade release is a testament to Orphan Barrel’s dedication to bringing unique and high-quality expressions to whiskey enthusiasts. With each release, the brand has consistently sought out extraordinary barrels, often boasting higher age statements. While Scarlet Shade represents their first venture into rye, the Orphan Barrel portfolio also includes blends and multiple scotch expressions, expanding the boundaries of flavor exploration.
Value and Availability: Scarlet Shade is released as an Orphan Barrel whiskey, signaling its premium status. Priced at $200 per bottle, it sits among other exclusive releases in the market. Comparisons to similar-aged ryes are challenging due to the scarcity and limited availability of high-aged rye options. However, it’s important to note that Scarlet Shade provides a distinct and approachable whiskey experience, showcasing its refined character and age.
Conclusion: Orphan Barrel’s Scarlet Shade is a finely crafted rye whiskey that exemplifies the brand’s commitment to excellence and the art of whiskey-making. It embodies the rich legacy of the Orphan Barrel project and their relentless pursuit of unique and forgotten barrels. Whiskey enthusiasts seeking traditional rye flavors, coupled with a touch of refinement and depth, will appreciate Scarlet Shade’s rich character. As the rye whiskey landscape continues to evolve, Scarlet Shade stands as a testament to the past and a delightful addition to the present. Here’s to savoring the distinctive flavors of Scarlet Shade and the intriguing journey of Orphan Barrel Whiskey!