Redwood Empire Lost Monarch Small Batch American Whiskey is a meticulously crafted blend of straight bourbon and straight rye whiskeys, bottled at 90 proof from Northern California's Sonoma County. This distinctive whiskey showcases the temperate coastal climate's influence on barrel aging, creating exceptional balance and complexity that sets it apart from traditional inland-aged American whiskeys.
Founded in 2015, Redwood Empire draws inspiration from California's majestic coastal redwoods, with Lost Monarch named after the world's largest coastal redwood by volume — a towering 321-foot giant with a 26-foot diameter. Corning & Company Distillers embraces the unique terroir of Sonoma County, where the cool, temperate climate allows for slow, even flavor extraction from aging barrels, producing whiskeys that capture the essence of Northern California's distinctive environment.
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Honeyed oak, vanilla custard, dried orange peel, warm baking spices, subtle coastal minerality
- Palate: Caramel apple, toasted grain, black pepper spice, dark chocolate, balanced sweetness with rye's peppery backbone
- Finish: Medium to long with lingering vanilla oak, cinnamon warmth, and a gentle coastal breeze freshness
Product Details
| Spirit Type | Small Batch American Whiskey |
|---|---|
| ABV | 45.0% (90 proof) |
| Volume | 750ml |
| Age Statement | Aged at least 3 years |
| Distillery | Corning & Company Distillers, LLC |
| Region | Sonoma County, California |
| Mash Bill | Bourbon & Rye Blend |
Perfect For
- Craft Cocktail Experimentation: The bourbon-rye blend adds complexity to Old Fashioneds and Manhattans
- California Whiskey Discovery: Perfect introduction to West Coast whiskey terroir and coastal aging influence
- Spirited Dinner Parties: Conversation-starting bottle with unique redwood forest heritage story
- Home Bar Diversification: Distinctive alternative to traditional Kentucky and Tennessee whiskeys
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Redwood Empire Lost Monarch taste like?
Lost Monarch offers a harmonious balance of bourbon's vanilla sweetness and rye's peppery spice, with notes of caramel apple, toasted oak, and warm baking spices. The Northern California coastal aging adds a unique minerality and freshness that distinguishes it from inland-aged whiskeys.
Is Lost Monarch good for cocktails?
Absolutely. The bourbon-rye blend makes it exceptionally versatile in cocktails, adding complexity to classics like Old Fashioneds and Manhattans while holding its own in whiskey sours and paper planes. The 90-proof strength provides ideal cocktail backbone without overwhelming other ingredients.
How should I drink Lost Monarch?
Lost Monarch shines neat or with a splash of water to open up the coastal aging influences. It's equally excellent on the rocks or in premium cocktails. Try it in a Paper Plane or Boulevard to showcase the bourbon-rye blend's complexity.
What makes Lost Monarch different from other American whiskeys?
The unique Northern California coastal aging environment creates slower, more even flavor extraction compared to inland climates. This results in exceptional balance between the bourbon and rye components, plus subtle mineral notes you won't find in traditional whiskey regions.
Is Lost Monarch worth the price?
For whiskey enthusiasts seeking something distinctive from the California craft movement, Lost Monarch offers excellent value. The unique terroir, thoughtful bourbon-rye blend, and coastal aging influence provide a premium experience that stands apart from mainstream American whiskeys.
You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.