WhistlePig 'Old World Series' Madeira Finish 12 Years Old Straight Rye Whiskey, Vermont

WhistlePig has always been a boundary-pusher, and their 12-Year-Old Old World Rye is proof that innovation and tradition can coexist beautifully. Inspired by the time-honored techniques of European winemaking, this whiskey undergoes a unique finishing process in a trio of carefully selected casks—Madeira (63%), Sauternes (30%), and Port (7%). The result? A rye whiskey that bridges the gap between bold American spice and the layered elegance of old-world refinement. Bottled at 86 proof, it offers a nuanced and approachable take on rye, perfect for those who appreciate a whiskey with complexity and finesse rather than sheer intensity.

Product Details

• Spirit Type: Straight Rye Whiskey
• Region: Vermont, USA
• Mashbill: 95% Rye
• Aging: 12 years in New American Oak, finished in a combination of Madeira, Sauternes, and Port casks
• Alcohol: 45% ABV (86 proof)
• Production: Small-batch, meticulously blended
• Ownership: Raj Bhakta

Sensory Description

The nose opens with warm caramel and vanilla, layered with stewed fruits—raisins, dates, and dark plums—an unmistakable imprint of its wine cask maturation. On the palate, bright orchard fruits and honeyed apricots dance alongside classic rye spice, with hints of toasted oak and floral undertones. The influence of Madeira lends a rich, nutty depth, while the Sauternes brings a refined sweetness and the Port a whisper of dark chocolate. The finish lingers with a balance of rye spice, winter fruit, and a velvety touch of vanilla.

Distiller’s Background

WhistlePig is no stranger to rewriting the rulebook on rye whiskey. Founded in 2007 on a historic farm in Vermont, the distillery quickly gained a reputation for crafting high-proof, age-stated ryes that challenged convention. The Old World Series is a testament to their spirit of experimentation—blending American craftsmanship with European aging traditions. This whiskey, in particular, takes inspiration from the finishing techniques often seen in Scotch, offering a refined, wine-kissed interpretation of rye.

Serving Suggestions

While many ryes lean into their bold spice and heat, WhistlePig 12-Year Old World Rye is all about balance and elegance. Serve it neat at 60–65°F to appreciate its layered complexity, or pour it over a large cube to slightly mellow the fruit-driven notes. For an elevated cocktail experience, try it in a Vieux Carré, where its nuanced sweetness and spice interplay beautifully with Cognac and sweet vermouth. This is a whiskey that shines with food—pair it with duck confit, aged cheeses, or a rich crème brûlée to enhance its interplay of spice and fruit.