Editor’s Note: This whiskey was provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. 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 in this review our site receives a small referral payment which helps to support, but not influence, our editorial and other costs.
When it works, bring it back. Leopold Bros’ Three Chamber Rye with George Dickel’s column still rye produced at Cascade Hollow Distilling Co. Recreating a historic style, the Cascade Hollow component of the blend debuted in 2021 in the inaugural release of the Collaboration Blend, marking the first time whisky fans were able to enjoy a rye whisky distilled at Cascade Hollow.
“The George Dickel x Leopold Bros Collaboration Blend was founded on our friendship and mutual admiration for each other as distillers. This is such a meaningful product to us both, and we have been overwhelmed by the initial reception,” says Austin, General Manager and Distiller at Cascade Hollow Distilling Co. “Working with Todd and his team to create this blend is a once-in-a-career moment for me.
Mutual admiration can be an incredible tool for collaboration. George Dickel is the second largest producer of Tennessee whiskey in the world behind Old No. 7, Jack Daniels. They are a giant in the whiskey game. With a history tracing back over a century the brand George Dickel is synonymous with whiskey. They produce everything but their standard rye whiskey at the historic Cascade Hollow distillery.
Leopold Bros is not George Dickel. With a history beginning in 1999, this distillery is based out of Denver Colorado and hand number many of their products. They are one of the older craft distilleries in the country and have a strong reputation in those circles. They have a growing national presence and following. Leopold is famous for their Three Chamber Still. A unique still dating back to the pre-prohibition era. It is something that Leopold believes sets them apart and gives them an incredible tie to history.
To be a fly on the wall for this collaboration. I have not found many non-marketing details about the reason behind these two distilleries joining forces. What I have found is a lot of positive attention for the collaboration though. Since the original release a year ago the collaboration has caught the attention of whiskey enthusiasts across the country. The Leopold Bros Three Chamber Rye is blended with the George Dickel Column Still Rye from Cascade Hollow. The same liquid as last year’s release.
Official tasting notes indicate this whiskey “initially boasts a floral nose of lavender, elderflower and rose balanced by sweet hints of maple syrup, marshmallow and cocoa. On the palate, rosewater, blackberries, caramel, lavender, fig and citrus are present followed by a finish combining earl gray, honey and cocoa.” Which, to be perfectly honest, sounds more like a dessert than whiskey but I am not complaining.
Does this collaboration have staying power, or should this be a one time thing? With that we turn to the glass.
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Tasting Notes: George Dickel x Leopold Bros Collaboration Blend 2022
Vital Stats: George Dickel x Leopold Bros Collaboration Blend 2022, 50% abv, SRP $109.99
Appearance: Straw with quick forming legs.
Nose: very floral nose with rose petal being the focal scent. This bouquet is wrapped in fresh cut oak and brown sugar. It s not overly complex, but extremely pleasant. Soft, surprisingly delicate.
Taste: An adventure in flavor, rosewater, honey, and toffee. It quickly lights up the chest with a soft fire. It is watery and goes down easily. Evolving profile leads to rich earth flavors. There is a hint of spice if you hold the whiskey on your tongue, almost a cayenne pepper tingle. We have brown sugar and figs towards the back end. The finish is quick but leaves enough to be remembered. It is a very inviting whiskey, and the first sip to the final breath tie very well together.
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