For years, Nicole Austin of Cascade Hollow Distilling and Todd Leopold of Leopold Bros Distillery have cultivated a mutual respect as peers in the whisky industry, and as friends.
And this year, when Todd shared a sample of Leopold Bros trademark Three Chamber Rye with Nicole, he was looking for a partner to collaborate on a new rye blend to bring to market.
Dubbed the George Dickel x Leopold Bros Collaboration Blend, the new union is said it balances two different styles of rye whiskey … Leopold Bros’ Three Chamber Rye and George Dickel’s never-before-released traditional column still rye.
The result is a very limited, historically-inspired blend of straight rye whiskeys that both distillers say is reminiscent of an era when heavy-bodied rye whiskeys were served at bars and saloons across America.
“When you look back at official records for Three Chamber Rye whiskies, they weren’t just sold as is, but they were also blended together with column still whiskies,” said Leopold in a prepared statement. “It feels fitting that our rare rye release combines this historic style with something new from George Dickel. We hope whisky fans will enjoy this take on an American classic and inspire the resurgence of rare rye whisky.”
Nicole Austin said that at the core of both George Dickel and Leopold Bros is a shared spirit of commitment to producing distinct, quality whisky. “I’ve been a personal fan of Leopold Bros for years, and it’s why I’m thrilled to collaborate with Todd and his team. I’m also particularly excited this partnership will mark the first time people will be able to enjoy a rye whisky distilled at Cascade Hollow.”
The distillers’ official tasting notes show that the George Dickel x Leopold Bros Collaboration Blend brings 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.
Trending Stories
George Dickel x Leopold Bros Collaboration Blend, bottled at 100 proof, is a limited release, and is available this month in select retail establishments for around $110.
Latest News