Editor’s Note: This whiskey was provided to us as a review sample by Chicken Cock. 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.
Chicken Cock, known as “The Famous Old Brand,” has been crowing from the top of popular whiskey lists since 1856 when the distillery was created by founder James A. Miller in Paris, Kentucky, deep in the heart of Bourbon County. To kick off the “Summer of the Rooster,” Chicken Cock has released its newest limited edition Island Rooster Rum Barrel Rye, a tropical and lively rye finished in Caribbean rum casks.
Matti Anttila is the founder of Grain & Barrel Spirits, who owns the Chicken Cock brand, says of this new expression, “Summer is the ideal season for Chicken Cock to take traditional indoor whiskey drinking occasions outside and Island Rooster’s rum barrel finish makes this a whiskey you’ll want to throw in your pack as you head outdoors.” Master Distiller Gregg Snyder displays his extensive knowledge of the craft in this well balanced and finely tuned summertime spirit, enjoying a well-received release including being awarded a Gold Medal at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
While not expressly a flavored whiskey, Chicken Cock Island Rooster definitely wears its rum cask notes on the sleeve, offering a sweetness that would appeal to those drinkers who want a less intense flavor profile. The first thing that came to mind when tasting was how great this whiskey would be in a Kentucky Mule, thinking that the flavors would add a unique take on the classic cocktail.
The 70s vintage Apothecary-style embossed bottle, metal cup cap, and bright label makes Chicken Cock Island Rooster a nice piece on the bar cart, and the whiskey really does lend itself to a pleasant summer day. While I did prefer my tasting of the Chicken Cock 15-Year Barrel Proof, I would recommend this limited edition to those drinkers looking for a brightly spirited whiskey appealing to a wide audience, despite the heftier price tag.
Tasting Notes: Chicken Cock Island Rooster Rum Barrel Rye
Vital Stats: Mash bill is 95% rye and 5% malted barley. 95 Proof (47.5% ABV). SRP $199/750mL. At least four years old. Finished for at least 6 months in Caribbean rum cask.
Appearance: A clear dark orange with thin legs.
Nose: Spicy notes with mellow sweet vanilla and rum, with tropical pineapple wafting from the bottle.
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Palate: The whiskey is a delicious blend of complex flavors, including sweet guava and ginger, with a little funk on the outside of the tongue and a smooth coffee note finish.
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