Templeton Launches First Single Barrel Rye from Iowa

Can a former sourcing brand successfully transition to grain-to-glass production? Templeton's new single barrel rye, six years in the making, provides the answer.
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Templeton Launches First Single Barrel Rye from Iowa
Credit: Templeton Distillery

Templeton Distillery has unveiled its first Single Barrel Rye whiskey that has been distilled, aged, and bottled entirely at its Iowa facility. The limited-edition, cask-strength expression marks the brand’s significant transition from sourcing whiskey to full grain-to-glass production, a process that began when the distillery opened in 2018.

The new whiskey is crafted from a mash bill of 95% rye and 5% malted barley. It was matured in new, charred American oak barrels before being bottled at barrel proof.

This release represents the fruition of a long-term vision for the brand, utilizing the first rye barrels that were laid down at the distillery after its opening.

Historically, Templeton built its brand on sourcing and bottling rye whiskey, tying its identity to the bootlegging legacy of its namesake Iowa town during the Prohibition era.

Shane Fitzharris, senior vice president of global commercial at parent company Infinium Spirits, commented on the launch. “We’re proud to introduce Templeton Single Barrel Rye – a whiskey crafted for our fans and connoisseurs alike.”

“This release embodies our spirit of innovation while honoring our rich heritage, setting a new benchmark for excellence in American whiskey,” he said. “Every pour offers a rare and remarkable expression of character and craft – no two barrels alike, each with its own distinct personality and complexity.”

Official notes from the brand describe the whiskey as having “aromas of spice and oak layered over subtle sweetness.” The palate is said to offer depth and intensity, leading to a “rich, lingering finish.”

The launch places Templeton among a growing number of American distilleries focusing on premium, in-house-produced rye whiskey. The category has seen a resurgence in recent years, driven by consumer interest in classic cocktails and spirits with distinctive flavor profiles.

Templeton’s wider portfolio includes expressions such as its 6 and 10-year-old sourced rye whiskeys, along with Templeton Midnight Rye and its first in-house distillate, Templeton FORTITUDE Bourbon.

Templeton Single Barrel Rye is now available for a limited time at select U.S. retailers and online via the Templeton Distillery website. The whiskey has a suggested retail price of US$49.99.

Beth Squires

Beth Squires joined Mark Littler Ltd full-time in October 2020 after completing her university degree in English Literature. Since then, she has acquired extensive knowledge about all aspects of whisk(e)y and now holds the position of Deputy Editor at The Whiskey Wash. Beth is passionate about history, industry innovation, marketing, and sustainability. With a special fondness for independently bottled rare scotch, Beth also serves as a whisky bottle investment specialist. Additionally, she is a mentee currently enrolled in the OurWhisky Foundation's Atonia Programme.

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