Distillery Spotlight: WhistlePig Distillery

WhistlePig Distillery, known for its bold and innovative approach to whiskey making, stands as a noteworthy example in the craft spirits industry. Let’s explore the distillery and get to know them and their spirits a little bit better!

Founding and Vision

WhistlePig was founded in 2007 when a group of rye enthusiasts bought a dilapidated dairy farm in Vermont. Their vision was to revive rye whiskey, which had lost its popularity post-prohibition. They focused on crafting world-class whiskey by keeping the best qualities of rye and continuously innovating. 

The distillery officially opened in 2015 in Shoreham, Vermont. The founder’s gamble on investing in 10-year-aged rye whiskey paid off, marking the beginning of WhistlePig’s success story​​​​.

Why Choose WhistlePig Distillery?

What makes WhistlePig stand out is its audacious experimentation and commitment to producing exceptional whiskeys without being bound by old conventions. Their team, “young and rebellious”, defies tradition and continually sets new standards in the rye whiskey arena. This approach includes big age statements and bold experiments, making WhistlePig a leader in the industry​​​​. If you love rye whiskeys, check out WhistlePig’s spirits – you won’t be disappointed.

Spirits Produced by WhistlePig

WhistlePig specializes in rye whiskeys, leading the industry with their creations. Some of their notable spirits include:

PiggyBack 100% Rye

The WhistlePig PiggyBack 100% Rye is a whiskey with a complex and nuanced profile. Here’s a breakdown of its sensory attributes:

Nose: Fresh cinnamon, black peppercorn, a hint of tangerine and grapefruit zest.

Palate: Powerfully spicy, with cocoa, cardamom, and cured leather flavors.

Finish: Lengthy, with baking spices, vanilla, and hints of citrus​​.

PiggyBack 100 Proof Bourbon

The PiggyBack 100 Proof Bourbon from WhistlePig Distillery is a distinct spirit that offers a sweeter spin on their traditional whiskey approach. It’s crafted with a high corn mash bill, supplemented with a dash of rye, and aged for six years in Char #3 barrels. This process imbues the bourbon with layered flavors and a bold character, bottled at 100 proof.

Nose: A blend of caramel corn and oak notes, presenting a rich and inviting aroma.

Palate: The bourbon offers a sweet combination of maple and vanilla, characterized by a creamy mouthfeel.

Finish: A finish reminiscent of herbal tea, accompanied by a subtle hint of honey.

FarmStock Rye

WhistlePig’s FarmStock Rye is a tribute to their grain-to-glass process, crafted with their own grain, distilled with water from their well, and aged in local Vermont Oak barrels. This spirit is a well-balanced, easy-drinking rye, suitable for both newcomers and seasoned rye enthusiasts.

Nose: Sweet and aromatic, Vanilla, Maraschino, Roasted chestnuts, Hints of cigar box

Palate: Oak, Toffee, Baking spices, Soft notes of crème brûlée, Rose petals

Finish: Warm and lasting, Pleasant Rye spice​​.

Small Batch Rye Aged 10 Years

WhistlePig’s Small Batch Rye Aged 10 Years is a distinguished spirit that kickstarted the company’s journey into crafting rye whiskey. This high rye whiskey, known for its bold, spice-forward profile, is versatile and appreciated whether enjoyed neat or in cocktails. Aged for 10 years, it showcases the depth and complexity that time imparts on rye whiskey.

Nose: Allspice, Orange peel, Anise, Oak, Char, Caramel

Palate: Sweet with hints of caramel and vanilla, Rye spice, Mint

Finish: Long finish, Warm butterscotch and caramel​​.

Other Spirits:

WhistlePig Distillery’s impressive lineup also includes the Old World Rye Aged 12 Years, offering a harmonious blend of caramel, vanilla, and winter fruit; the Estate Oak Rye Aged 15 Years, a deep and rich whiskey with caramel, vanilla, butterscotch, and baking spice notes; and the Double Malt Rye Aged 18 Years, known for its sweet and aromatic profile with toasted oak, berries, and nutmeg. 

Each of these spirits (and all of their spirits!) exemplifies WhistlePig’s commitment to innovative and sophisticated whiskey making, providing unique tasting experiences that reflect their aging and craftsmanship. You’ll find an unparalleled quality in WhistlePig’s whiskeys; each bottle is a special blend of uniqueness and amazing flavor!

Distillation Process

WhistlePig’s distillation process is also a testament to their commitment to craft and quality. Starting with hand-bottling aged Canadian Rye stock on their farm, they’ve evolved to house every aspect of whiskey making in one place. This includes harvesting rye fields, mashing, fermenting, distilling, barreling, aging, and bottling. Their facility, equipped with a 750-gallon hybrid still, The Mortimer, allows for limitless potential in rye whiskey creation​​.

Where to Find WhistlePig’s Spirits

WhistlePig’s whiskeys are distributed across all 50 states in the U.S. and are growing in international availability. It doesn’t appear that WhistlePig offers online sales for their spirits, but they do have a store locator for website visitors to find local stores and restaurants where their spirits are sold and served.

The WhistlePig Distillery Crew

The distillery is led by an energetic team committed to innovation and quality. Key members include:

• Liz Rhoades, Director of Whiskey Operations and R&D
• Emily Harrison, Lead Distiller
• Meghan Ireland, Chief Blender

This team represents a new generation of distillers and blenders who are redefining the whiskey-making process​​​​​​​​.

Events and Classes at WhistlePig Distillery

WhistlePig hosts various events and activities. The WhistlePig Pavilion, located at Spruce Peak, is a hub for après-ski and summer concerts. This venue serves WhistlePig Rye Whiskey cocktails and BBQ, providing a lively atmosphere for visitors. The WhistlePig Whiskey Parlour, another notable destination, offers whiskey tastings and scenic views​​​​.

Visiting Hours

The WhistlePig Whiskey Parlour is open daily from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm. 

Meanwhile, the WhistlePig Pavilion operates Sunday to Thursday from 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm and extends its hours on Friday and Saturday until 9:00 pm​​​​.

WhistlePig Distillery: Innovating and Redefining Rye Whiskey

In summary, WhistlePig Distillery distinguishes itself with its innovative approach to whiskey making, a dedicated and forward-thinking team, and a commitment to quality and experimentation. Whether it’s their unique spirits, their comprehensive distillation process, or the engaging events they host, WhistlePig offers a distinctive experience for whiskey enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

So, what are you waiting for? Pop into WhistlePig Distillery for a tour, pick up a bottle, or learn more about them today!