Editor’s Note: This whiskey was provided to us as a review sample by Blinking Owl. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review. It should also be noted that by clicking the buy link towards the bottom of this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.
Blinking Owl, founded in 2016, is Orange County’s first legal distillery since Prohibition. The distillery may get its name from a former Santa Ana bar sign, but that’s part of the charm. Its founders, Brian and Robin Christenson started Blinking Owl with friend, and actress, Kirsten Vangsness— Criminal Minds’ Penelope Garcia. However, Blinking Owl’s major ups have come with major downs.
Certainly, the pandemic has made it hard for the liquor industry, and the distillery had to shut down its tasting room and outdoor patio. However, legal troubles began in 2019 when a situation caused them to shut down for 25 days. Given that Blinking Owl operates under a Type 74 Craft Distillers License, the Alcoholic Beverage Control caught the distillery within violation during two sting operations. Now Blinking Owl is working to change their license type by expanding with the edition of a kitchen to serve a full menu.
While Blinking Owl makes an array of spirits including Aquavit, a Scandinavian spirit, their whiskies made of organic grains have been hitting the shelves of California. They have two bourbons and a rye in their core line-up, but limited editions are released as well. Blinking Owl’s Straight Rye Whiskey has no corn in its mash bill whatsoever. All the grains— rye, wheat, and barley— are locally sourced and organic. In both bourbons, you will find sweet white corn.
If you are impressed with Blinking Owl’s whiskies, and you happen to have $15,000, you and your buddies can make your own. Through their Whiskey MBA program, you will work with a distiller over four days to make, barrel, and age your own Blinking Owl whiskey. Two hundred bottles of your own personal mash bill don’t seem too shabby!
Tasting Notes: Blinking Owl Straight Rye Whiskey
Vital Stats: 45% ABV, 90 proof. 30-month-old straight rye distilled and bottled in California. Mash bill includes all organic grains—California rye, California wheat, and California barley. 750ml $59.
Appearance: Medium amber.
Nose: Rubbing alcohol and lemon hit the nose initially. This is followed up with rose and florals. Honey syrup and baking spices hover over the dram throughout.
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Palate: Lemon peel and pine needles come together to greet the tongue. Oak and nutmeg linger throughout the dram. The mouthfeel is a little hot and harsh.
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