Heritage
Pinhook 7 Year Old Rye Whiskey is a Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, meaning it is made from a mash bill of at least 51% rye, distilled in Kentucky, and aged for a minimum of two years in new, charred oak barrels. This specific expression from Pinhook has been aged for a full seven years, allowing for a deeper and more nuanced development of its flavors. The rye grain contributes the distinctive spicy, peppery, and often herbaceous notes, while the supporting grains (typically corn and malted barley) round out the profile with sweetness and body. The whiskey undergoes maturation in new, charred American oak barrels in Kentucky rickhouses, where the interaction with the wood imparts additional complexity, including vanilla, caramel, and a robust oak character. The seven years of aging mellow out some of the ryes initial intensity while enhancing its savory and sweet components. Pinhook is known for its focus on bottling exceptional single barrels or small batches, often at higher proofs and without chill filtration, ensuring a full-flavored and authentic rye whiskey experience.
Tasting Profile & Food Pairings
Taste Notes: The aroma of Pinhook 7 Year Old Rye Whiskey is vibrant and spicy, with prominent notes of rye grain, black pepper, and mint, often intertwined with hints of dill, sweet caramel, and dried fruit. On the palate, it is bold and flavorful, delivering a strong burst of classic rye spice, followed by notes of cinnamon, clove, and a refreshing herbal character. Underlying sweetness of brown sugar and vanilla often balances the spice, along with a firm oak presence. The mouthfeel is typically medium to full-bodied. The finish is long and warming, with persistent rye spice, a pleasant sweetness, and a touch of dry oak.
Food Pairings: This robust rye whiskey is excellent with bold and savory food. Consider cured meats like pastrami or salami, spicy BBQ, or grilled steak. It pairs exceptionally well with strong, aged cheeses such as Pecorino Romano or extra-sharp cheddar. It's also the perfect spirit for classic rye-based cocktails like a Sazerac or a Manhattan. For dessert, try it with dark chocolate or spiced gingerbread.
Craftsmanship
Pinhook is a small-batch whiskey that thrives on experimentation. With bold, unorthodox flavor twists and a robust profile, each release is a celebration of American craft distilling that challenges the conventional boundaries of bourbon.
