In a harmonious blend of music and whiskey, the iconic guitarist, songwriter, and singer of The Band, Robbie Robertson, has posthumously joined forces with WhistlePig Whiskey to create a tribute that is sure to strike a chord with fans of both the legendary musician and exceptional spirits. With Thanksgiving around the corner, the release of "WhistlePig 12 Rye Whiskey – Robbie's Blend" not only commemorates the 45th anniversary of Martin Scorsese's concert film, "The Last Waltz," but also pays homage to the extraordinary talent of Robbie Robertson himself.
Robbie Robertson, who sadly passed away in August of this year at the age of 80, had the opportunity to collaborate with Vermont-based distillery WhistlePig on this remarkable whiskey project. WhistlePig, renowned for its high-quality rye whiskey, has a tradition of watching "The Last Waltz" on Thanksgiving. This tradition, shared by many, inspired the creation of Robbie's Blend, which serves as the perfect companion for traditional viewings of the iconic concert film and album.
This exceptional 12-year-old Canadian rye whiskey boasts a unique flavor profile that embodies the spirit of The Band's music. Crafted under Robbie Robertson's watchful eye, Robbie's Blend was finished in three different types of casks, each contributing its distinct character. The composition includes 76% Madeira, 19% Port, and 5% Sauternes cask finishes, providing a rich and complex flavor palette that includes ripe citrus, cedar, walnut, oak tannin, and a pinch of crushed white pepper. The result is a symphony of flavors in every sip, truly encapsulating the essence of the collaboration between a musical legend and a renowned whiskey distillery.
As an additional touch to make this release even more special, the whiskey bottles are dipped in wax that incorporates melted vinyl from "The Last Waltz" album, creating a keepsake that serves as a tribute to both the artist and the iconic concert.
WhistlePig's master distiller, Mitch Mahar, expressed his excitement about this unique collaboration, stating, "Watching 'The Last Waltz' on Thanksgiving is a tradition for many. We're humbled to give fans another way to celebrate 'The Last Waltz's' legacy this season with a new whiskey created in collaboration with Robbie himself."
The festivities around this release don't stop at the whiskey bottle. To further celebrate this historic event, the re-release of "The Last Waltz" on vinyl has been launched. Iconoclast, a rights and branding company, collaborated with WhistlePig to bring this unique blend to life and hosted a release party featuring tastings, guest speakers, and exclusive merchandise. The celebration continued with "The Last Waltz" GRAMMY Museum Screening and will extend to a nationwide screening of "The Last Waltz" by Fathom Events on November 5, providing fans across the country an opportunity to immerse themselves in the magic of this legendary concert film.
Olivier Chastan, the founder of Iconoclast, aptly summed up the significance of this collaboration, stating, "Thanksgiving is a perfect encapsulation of everything 'The Last Waltz' stood for: a collaborative, familial, and inclusive spirit that you could feel through the speakers. We are continuing this spirit of collaboration by bringing together Robbie—a consummate tastemaker—and WhistlePig—a whiskey reserved for those with the finest taste—to create WhistlePig 12 Rye Whiskey – Robbie's Blend."
For those eager to experience the magic of Robbie's Blend, it is available for purchase online through the WhistlePig website for a suggested retail price of $175 per 750-milliliter bottle. Furthermore, it will soon hit the shelves in select Tennessee stores this fall, providing fans and connoisseurs alike with a unique opportunity to savor this exquisite tribute to a musical legend. Visit www.TheLastWaltz.com to explore the re-release of "The Last Waltz" vinyl and other memorabilia that celebrate The Band's enduring legacy.
In summary, "WhistlePig 12 Rye Whiskey – Robbie's Blend" is a testament to the power of collaboration between the worlds of music and whiskey. It embodies the soulful melodies of The Band and the craftsmanship of WhistlePig to create a whiskey that pays a fitting tribute to the legacy of "The Last Waltz" and the indelible mark left by Robbie Robertson. With the holidays approaching, it's the perfect way to elevate your Thanksgiving celebration and savor the rich, complex flavors of this bespoke rye whiskey.
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About Robbie Robertson
Robbie Robertson is a Canadian-American musician, songwriter, and producer known for his significant contributions to the world of rock and roll. Born Jaime Royal Robertson on July 5, 1943, in Toronto, Canada, he began his musical journey at a young age, learning to play guitar and developing a deep passion for music.
In the early 1960s, Robbie Robertson joined Ronnie Hawkins and the Hawks, a rockabilly band, which eventually led to his association with the legendary Bob Dylan. He became the lead guitarist for Dylan during his electrified "going electric" phase in the mid-1960s, playing a crucial role in shaping the sound of Dylan's controversial tour.
Robertson's most significant musical legacy can be traced to his time as the primary songwriter and lead guitarist for The Band. The Band was a pioneering group in the late 1960s and early 1970s, blending rock, folk, and Americana to create a unique and enduring sound. They released albums like "Music from Big Pink" and "The Band," which are considered classic works in the rock canon.
One of Robertson's most celebrated contributions is his songwriting, which has produced timeless classics such as "The Weight," "The Night They Drove Old Dixie Down," and "Up on Cripple Creek." These songs, with their vivid storytelling and emotive melodies, have left an indelible mark on the landscape of American music.
After The Band disbanded in 1976, Robertson continued his musical journey as a solo artist and collaborated with other artists. He released several solo albums and continued to explore his roots and influences, often delving into Native American heritage, as he is of Mohawk and Cayuga descent.
Robbie Robertson's influence on the music industry is immeasurable. His innovative guitar work, songwriting prowess, and contributions to the roots of rock and Americana have solidified his place as a legendary figure in the world of music.
About WhistlePig Whiskey
WhistlePig is a notable American whiskey brand that has gained prominence for its commitment to producing high-quality rye whiskey. Founded in 2007, WhistlePig is located on a picturesque farm in Shoreham, Vermont, and it has become one of the leading names in the American craft whiskey movement. The brand's name is derived from the colloquial term for the groundhog, a creature that is often spotted on the farm where their whiskey is produced.
One of the distinguishing characteristics of WhistlePig is its dedication to the production of 100% rye whiskey. They use locally sourced, non-GMO rye grains and maintain a focus on traditional methods of whiskey-making. The rye grains provide a distinctive and bold flavor profile that sets WhistlePig apart in the world of American whiskey.
WhistlePig's flagship product is their 10-Year-Old Straight Rye Whiskey, known for its well-balanced combination of spicy and sweet notes. The whiskey undergoes a unique aging process in Vermont oak barrels, which contributes to its character. The brand also offers a range of expressions, including limited editions, single barrel releases, and experimental finishes.
The WhistlePig distillery is open to visitors, offering tours and tastings. Guests have the opportunity to explore the picturesque farm setting, learn about the whiskey production process, and sample the various expressions the brand has to offer. The commitment to transparency and educating consumers about the art of rye whiskey-making is a central aspect of the distillery's ethos.
WhistlePig's dedication to quality and the art of rye whiskey-making has earned it a strong reputation in the industry. Its unique approach to sourcing, aging, and crafting rye whiskey has garnered recognition and acclaim from whiskey enthusiasts, making it a beloved name in the world of American spirits.
