In a recent announcement Old Overholt, the venerable whiskey brand under the Beam Suntory umbrella, revealed the release of a highly anticipated 10-year-old, cask-strength rye whiskey. This exquisite libation, known as Old Overholt Extra Aged Cask Strength Rye, is set to grace shelves nationwide in limited quantities this fall, promising aficionados and collectors a unique opportunity to savor the brand's distinct spice and depth in a robust, unfiltered expression.
Crafted with meticulous care, this new expression underwent a decade-long maturation process, beginning in 2012 during the Winter and Autumn seasons. What sets this release apart is its aging in a singular, "escalator-style" warehouse, specifically Warehouse V in Clermont, Kentucky. The unusual "escalator-style" rickhouse employs escalators to move barrels around as they mature, ensuring a consistent and gently mellowed flavor profile over time.
The decision to release Old Overholt Extra Aged Cask Strength Rye at its natural cask strength of 121 proof is a nod to the brand's commitment to authenticity and tradition. Priced at $99.99 per 750ml bottle, this is the first publicly available cask strength expression from Old Overholt since the mid-20th century, making it a coveted addition for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Old Overholt, boasting the title of the oldest continuously maintained whiskey brand in America, has weathered the storms of time with resilience. Emerging relatively unscathed from Prohibition, the brand's survival was attributed, in part, to the ownership of Andrew Mellon, a prominent banking tycoon and the U.S. Secretary of the Treasury under President Harding. During the Prohibition era, Old Overholt was granted the privilege to distill "medicinal" Bottled in Bond whiskey.
Rye whiskey, once overshadowed, is experiencing a renaissance, with bartenders attesting to its renewed popularity. Old Overholt, with its heavy focus on rye, is at the forefront of this revival, continually delivering exceptional expressions that captivate the palates of whiskey connoisseurs.
The Old Overholt Extra Aged Cask Strength Rye reveals a sensorial journey for the discerning drinker. The dark and deep amber color, adorned with golden and henna hues, sets the stage for a bold and sweet aroma. Mellowed oak, sweet corn, and vanilla dance on the nose, complemented by warm black pepper and cinnamon-toast spice. The palate unfolds with flavors of brown sugar and honey, enriched by notes of leather and charred oak. The finish is a crescendo of rye spice and vanilla, delivering a balanced yet complex conclusion to this extraordinary whiskey experience.
Old Overholt Extra Aged Cask Strength Rye stands as a testament to the brand's enduring legacy, inviting enthusiasts to partake in a sip of history, a culmination of over two centuries of craftsmanship and tradition. As the rye renaissance sweeps through the whiskey landscape, Old Overholt emerges not only as a witness to history but as a pioneer shaping the future of American rye whiskey.
About Old Overholt Whiskey
Old Overholt is a historic American whiskey brand, recognized for producing straight rye whiskey. The brand's origins trace back to the 19th century, making it one of the oldest continually maintained whiskey brands in the United States. Old Overholt has a rich history that has evolved over the years, and it holds significance in the heritage of American rye whiskey.
The Old Overholt brand was established by Abraham Overholt in West Overton, Pennsylvania, in the early 19th century. Overholt was a prominent figure in the whiskey industry and played a role in the development of Pennsylvania rye whiskey. The Overholt family continued the tradition of producing rye whiskey for several generations.
Old Overholt Rye is recognized for its traditional and straightforward approach to rye whiskey. It typically features a mash bill with a high percentage of rye, contributing to the spiciness and robust flavor profile characteristic of rye whiskey. The brand has been associated with a smooth and approachable style of rye, making it suitable for both sipping and mixing in cocktails.
Over the years, Old Overholt has experienced changes in ownership and production, including a period when it was produced out of Kentucky. However, its heritage and connection to the history of American rye whiskey have remained central to its identity.
In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in Old Overholt as part of the revival of interest in rye whiskey. The brand is now under the umbrella of Beam Suntory, a major spirits company. Old Overholt Rye continues to be available as a staple offering, and there have been efforts to both preserve its historical character and introduce new expressions to meet evolving consumer preferences.
