Pinhook has announced the launch of its Vertical Series Rye 9 Year, marking the sixth edition in this distinctive aging experiment and coinciding with International Whiskey Day celebrations this month.
Blended from just 20 barrels, this year’s release represents the most limited offering in the series to date. The expression showcases a complex profile featuring candied licorice, oatmeal cookie, clove, and burnt toffee. On the palate, tasters can expect baked apricots, lychee, candied cinnamon, and lavender honey.
“We continue to be impressed by how our Vertical Series Rye is showing, and this last release is something really special—maybe even the best yet,” said Sean Josephs, co-founder and master distiller of Pinhook Bourbon. “The flavors and aromas have really developed into something unique, the nuances have been surprising. It will be a ‘must have’ for rye lovers and a ‘must try’ for anyone who loves the world of whiskey.”
Pinhook Vertical Series Extension Announced
In a significant update, Pinhook has decided to extend the Vertical Series from its original 12-year plan to 16 years total. This decision comes after monitoring the unique aging characteristics of the whisky.
“When we started this journey, we thought it would be wonderful to follow the arc of nine years to study how the liquid changes,” Josephs said. “However, we still see these barrels changing and feel like the best is yet to come. So, we decided to extend the Vertical Series from 12 to 16 years.”
The extension will result in fewer bottles being available for each subsequent release, increasing the exclusivity of future editions.
Distinctive Aging Environment
The Vertical Series uses MGP-distilled whiskey with a mashbill of 95% rye and 5% barley. This year’s release is bottled at cask strength, coming in at 111.2 proof.
Though the distillate originates from MGP, the aging process has taken place at Castle & Key in Frankfort, Kentucky, where Pinhook has maintained a distilling partnership since 2017. According to Josephs, the unique environment at Castle & Key has played a crucial role in the development of the whiskey.
The aging warehouse conditions at Castle & Key are described as cold and humid, creating a slower, less extractive aging process. This environment has allowed the whiskey to develop complex flavors without excessive wood influence that might be present in traditional metal rick houses.
Pinhook’s Vertical Series Rye 9 Year carries a suggested retail price of $89.99. It is available through Pinhook’s text-to-buy platform (833-332-2118), its website, and select retailers nationwide.
