Editor’s Note: This whiskey was provided to us as a review sample by Wigle Whiskey. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review.
I always appreciate a producer that stays to their roots. In this case, we have Wigle, hailing from the city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania in the Strip District, where there may have been a bottle of whiskey or two distilled. It’s said that throughout the 1700s-1800s western Pennsylvania was something of a hub of whiskey production. As the story goes, Phillip Wigle, around the 1790s, had defended his right as a distiller versus government tax collectors and may have started the Whiskey Rebellion.
The Wigle distillery, which sent us this bottle for review, began in 2011 and was founded by Mark Meyer, Mary Ellen Meyer, Meredith Meyer Grelli, Eric Meyer, Alexander Grelli, and Jeff Meyer. Over the years, the Wigle portfolio has expanded from whiskey, moving into the realms of gins, vodkas, and various other liqueurs.
So, here we have the Wigle Strip District Reserve. This is a pretty cool release. Organized with the Strip District Neighbors, this particular whiskey is sent out into the world along with special releases from Maggie’s Farm Rum and Cinderlands Beer Company. The proceeds for all of these products go right back to their neighborhood to support small businesses.
Here’s a bit of a breakdown about the whiskey itself. It’s a four grain, though information about percentages haven’t been released. In regards to production, it ended up being about 500 bottles or two barrels worth. The gang at the Wigle distillery are a grain to glass operation, opting to utilize local producers whenever possible.
The label for this one is also unique, designed by local artist Sarah Zeffiro. The label itself is quite representative of their neighborhood, with nods to other businesses in the area. Over the years, the distillery has incorporated the works of local artists for special editions.
Tasting Notes: Wigle Strip District Reserve Five Year Whiskey
Vital Stats: 80 proof, 40% ABV. Aged five years with a mash bill of rye, wheat, malted barley, and corn. About 500 bottles produced. ~ $50 per 750ml bottle.
Appearance: A darker shade of copper with mild orange overtones. In the glass, there weren’t many legs to start, though eventually slow and slightly spaced.
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Nose: Very sweet. This one was a hearty mix of candy corn and taffy. As a four grain, I am curious as to the percentages, though given the nose, one might guess heavier on the corn and barley side.
Palate: Definitely a lighter whiskey and a short but pronounced flavor profile. Cereal grains are abound, with a hint of banana. There was a bit more heat than initially expected, but that subsided pretty quickly.
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