Castle & Key Cask Finish Series Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey is a limited experimental edition finished in Vino de Naranja casks, bottled at cask strength 115.8 proof. This bold expression showcases the distillery's innovative approach to barrel finishing, combining traditional Kentucky rye whiskey with Spanish orange wine barrel influence to create something entirely unique for modern whiskey enthusiasts. Castle & Key Distillery in Frankfort, Kentucky represents the resurrection of a legendary site, bringing modern innovation to historic grounds. Their experimental cask finish series pushes boundaries while respecting traditional distilling methods, using a high-rye mash bill and creative finishing techniques to craft distinctive expressions that stand out in today's crowded whiskey landscape.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Orange zest, warm baking spices, vanilla bean, honeyed citrus peel, dried herbs
• Palate: Rye spice punch, candied orange, dark chocolate, cinnamon bark, toasted oak
• Finish: Long, with lingering orange wine sweetness, black pepper heat, oak tannins

Product Details

Spirit Type	Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
ABV	57.9% (115.8 Proof)
Volume	750ml
Age Statement	NAS (No Age Statement)
Distillery	Castle & Key Distillery
Region	Frankfort, Kentucky
Mash Bill	63% Rye, 20% Malted Barley, 17% Yellow Corn
Barrel Type	Vino de Naranja Casks (27 months finish)
Batch Size	2 Barrels

Perfect For

• Cocktail Innovation: Elevating whiskey sours and boulevardiers with unique citrus complexity
• Whiskey Collectors: Limited experimental release from Castle & Key's acclaimed cask finish series
• Adventurous Sipping: Neat or with a splash of water to unlock the orange wine influence
• Spirited Gatherings: Conversation starter that showcases modern American whiskey creativity

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Castle & Key Cask Finish Series Rye taste like?

This rye whiskey delivers bold spice from the high-rye mash bill enhanced by unique citrus notes from Vino de Naranja barrel finishing. Expect orange zest and warm spices on the nose, followed by rye spice, candied orange, and dark chocolate on the palate, finishing long with orange wine sweetness and peppery heat.

Is this rye whiskey good for cocktails?

Absolutely - the citrus influence from the orange wine barrels makes it exceptional in cocktails. It adds complexity to classics like Old Fashioned and Manhattan, while the cask strength holds up beautifully in spirit-forward drinks. The orange notes particularly shine in whiskey sours and paper plane variations.

How should I drink Castle & Key Cask Finish Series?

Start neat to appreciate the full intensity, then add a few drops of water to open up the orange wine influence. The cask strength can handle dilution well, so experiment with different water ratios. It's also excellent on the rocks or in premium cocktails where you want the orange barrel notes to shine through.

What makes this Castle & Key release special?

This is a limited experimental edition from only 2 barrels, finished for 27 months in Vino de Naranja (Spanish orange wine) casks. The combination of Castle & Key's high-rye mash bill with unique orange wine barrel finishing creates a flavor profile unlike any other American rye whiskey on the market.

Is Castle & Key Cask Finish Series worth the price?

For whiskey enthusiasts seeking unique expressions, this limited release offers exceptional value. The experimental nature, cask strength bottling, and innovative finishing process from a respected craft distillery make it a worthy addition to any serious whiskey collection, especially given the small batch size.

You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.