American

Whiskey Review: WhistlePig Farmstock

We review WhistlePig's Farmstock, the distillery's first release to include a bit of whiskey made at their new onsite distillery.

OVERALL RATING

8
Like Conversation
WhistlePig Farmstock

Tasting Notes

About:

86 Proof. $90/750ml. A blend of young estate whiskey, five and six year estate ryes, and MGP 12 year whiskey stock.
Appearance:
A light singed straw hue makes way for a clear yet dull appearance. Legs are impressive however, and cascade down the glass interior in slow waves.
Nose:
The aromas here are deep and complex. A wave of alcohol heat leads off but soon dissipates as the palate adjusts. Emerging wafts of cinnamon stick and dark, salty caramel are present as the fusels become lost in the air. There is a pronounced red berry note as well, which adds depth and an unexpected brightness. The grain-forward nature of this whiskey also leaves an air of baking bread in my nostrils, which keeps bringing back the aforementioned toasty burnt sugar note.
Palate:
While the nose gives an impression of perceived sweetness, the first wash of Farmstock over the palate accentuates the more dry aspects of this whiskey. The oak is prominent and heavy, but not quite astringent. Each sip starts with an angular roasted, husky rye siltiness that is tamed by the mild spice and calming qualities of the Vermont oak. This whiskey is both floral and dry on the tongue, prickly and aggressive as a bold rye should be. Enjoying the vanilla and caramel nose as I sip on the perfumey, earthy whiskey is a true collaborative effort resulting in a thoughtful sipping dram. As my tastebuds acclimate, more obscure notes of peanut butter and black peppercorns emerge.
Finish:
Comments:
For an established brand like WhistlePig, it may have been a smart idea to use the first ‘farm-to-bottle’ liquid as a blending tool instead of a standalone release. I’d wager that the oakiness and astringency from the “triple-terroir” juice may be a bit much for the WhistlePig drinker to handle on its own. Still, this bottle is a worthwhile investment and stands alone as a piece of Vermont distilling history, as well as a fine sip of rye.rn

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Jim Bonomo

All Posts

Latest On The Whiskey Wash