Jefferson’s New Cognac finished whiskey should be amazing. Trey Zoeller is known as somewhat of a mad scientist of whiskey – blending and finishing bourbon long before it was cool. In the 25 years of the brand’s history, his various expressions have been aged at sea, finished in wine casks, and crafted in collaboration with famous chefs like Ed Lee to bring fans unique bourbons they won’t find anywhere else.
But only once in the last 25 years has Zoeller released a rye whiskey, way back in 2008. For the latest release, Zoeller began with a Kentucky Straight Rye that he finished for nine months in ex-cognac casks.
“I wanted to look at rye through a new lens and elevate it past the supporting role it’s commonly associated with,” says Zoeller in a press release. “The spirit’s spice and character have historically made it an ideal base for cocktails, but Jefferson’s Rye Cognac Cask Finish is just as well-suited for sipping.”
Zoeller tells us to look for “spice up front, notes of orange, peach and honey and a lingering, luscious finish and full-bodied mouth feel” on the 94 proof whiskey.
Jefferson’s Rye Cognac Cask Finish will be available next week on retail shelves and is available now for pre-order on ReserveBar.com for a suggested retail price of around $70.