Coalition 'Sauternes Berriques' Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, Kentucky

Some whiskeys are made. Others, like Coalition Sauternes Barriques, are orchestrated—each note carefully composed, each element chosen with purpose. This Kentucky straight rye is the result of an ambitious cross-continental collaboration, where old-world Bordeaux winemaking meets the bold, spice-driven character of American rye. Crafted at Kentucky Artisan Distillery using 100% Ryman rye grown just a mile away, this whiskey undergoes a secondary maturation in hand-selected Sauternes barriques, adding layers of honeyed fruit, toasted nuts, and delicate florals to its naturally rich and peppery profile. The result? A whiskey that is as elegant as it is audacious.

Product Details:

• Grain: 100% Rye (90% rye, 10% malted rye)
• Region: Kentucky, USA
• ABV: 47.1% (94.2 Proof)
• Aging: 5 years in American white oak, finished 6-9 months in Sauternes wine barrels
• Distillation: Pre-Prohibition copper pot still
• Farming: Rye sourced from Waldeck Farm, less than a mile from the distillery
• Master Distiller: Jade Peterson (Female Master Distiller)

Sensory Description:

This whiskey pours a golden toffee hue, with slow, well-spaced legs in the glass. The nose is an inviting blend of vanilla cream, dried apricot, and caramelized apple, lifted by hints of cocoa and a touch of baking spice. On the palate, expect a velvety interplay of honeyed fruit, toffee, and warm spice, balanced by the rye’s signature peppery edge. A whisper of almond and dark chocolate lingers on the finish, leaving a smooth, slightly dry impression that begs for another sip. Jennifer describes it as “the best of both worlds—spicy, bold rye wrapped in the elegance of a fine dessert wine.”

Distiller’s Background:

Coalition Whiskey was born from a meeting of minds: spirits industry veteran Leonid Yangarber, legendary whiskey distiller Steve Thompson, and Bordeaux-based winemaker Ludwig Vanneron. Their shared vision? To elevate rye whiskey through the nuanced complexity of French wine barrel finishing. The whiskey itself is distilled at the Kentucky Artisan Distillery, where Jade Peterson—a rising star in American whiskey—oversees production using time-honored, hands-on techniques. With every detail meticulously considered, Coalition Sauternes Barriques is a testament to the power of collaboration and craftsmanship.

Serving Suggestions:

Enjoy neat at room temperature, around 65°F, to fully appreciate its layered complexity. For a more decadent experience, add a single large ice cube to soften the spice and enhance the caramel and fruit notes. This rye pairs beautifully with aged cheeses, dark chocolate, or a rich crème brûlée. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it in a Sauternes Old Fashioned—just a dash of orange bitters, a touch of honey, and a slow stir will highlight the whiskey’s lush, honeyed finish.