Heritage
Act 10, Scene 1 continues High West’s annual tradition of winter-themed port-finished rye whiskey. Based on their signature Rendezvous Rye blend, this edition is finished in a combination of Ruby and Tawny port barrels. Labeled simply as “Port barrels” in official naming, this Act falls within a period of transition, reflecting a shift from French oak port finishing to broader port cask sourcing. Despite the individual Scene number, the distillery blends all lots into a unified batch prior to bottling, ensuring consistency across scenes.
Tasting Profile & Food Pairings
Tasting Notes
The nose offers a blend of dried dark fruits like figs, raisins, and stewed cherries, accented by cinnamon, clove, nutmeg, and toasted oak. Subtle hints of black tea, orange peel, and honeyed bread lend brightness to the dense, fruity base. On the palate, rich waves of poached pears, strawberry-rhubarb compote, vanilla, and caramel unfold, balanced by spice from the rye and structure from oak tannins. There’s a creaminess to the mouthfeel, yet enough dry spice to keep it vibrant. The finish is warm and lingering, with notes of molasses, toasted wood, baking spice, and dried red fruit echoing long after the sip.
Food Pairings
This whisky pairs naturally with festive or cold-weather cuisine. Roasted duck with fig glaze, venison with spiced berry sauce, or slow-cooked pork with apple and cinnamon bring out its depth and warmth. Aged cheeses such as Gouda or Stilton complement its sweetness and rye spice. For dessert, try pecan pie, chocolate raspberry tart, or gingerbread with whipped cream to echo its fruit and spice profile.
Craftsmanship
High West Distillery, based in Park City, Utah, is known for blending sourced and in-house rye whiskies with a focus on creativity and balance. A Midwinter Night’s Dram is their flagship winter release, released annually in "Acts" and "Scenes" that reflect batch and bottling sequence. Act 10 marked a subtle shift from earlier releases, emphasizing port barrel richness while maintaining the rye backbone that defines the series. This expression is made to evoke winter comfort—layered, spiced, and perfect for long evenings by the fire.
