In a move that pays homage to the rich history of American whiskey distilling, Hotaling & Co. is reintroducing a beloved classic, Old Potrero 18th Century Style Whiskey, now under the name Old Potrero Toasted Barrel Whiskey. This meticulously crafted spirit, distilled from 100% rye malt in a small copper pot still, has been aged for a minimum of six years in unique, handmade toasted barrels, bringing a distinct taste of history and craftsmanship to modern whiskey enthusiasts.
Image credit: Old Potrero
The rebirth of Old Potrero Toasted Barrel Whiskey is not just about a name change. It signifies a return to traditional distilling methods that date back to the 18th century. The journey of this whiskey begins with its unique distillation process, using a small copper pot still that mirrors the equipment used in the early days of American whiskey making. This technique preserves the authenticity and quality of the whiskey, staying true to its roots.
The rye malt mash, the foundation of this whiskey, undergoes distillation in these copper pot stills, which are renowned for producing spirits with rich, robust flavors. Post-distillation, the whiskey is aged in new, toasted, 24-month air-dried, handmade, extra-fine grain American White Oak barrels. Unlike charred barrels, which became popular in the 19th century, these barrels are lightly toasted. This toasting process, explained by Master Distiller Bruce Joseph, involves heating the staves over a fire of oak chips, allowing them to bend and form into a barrel. This method imparts a subtle yet distinct flavor profile to the whiskey, reminiscent of the barrels used in the 18th century.
Noah Rothbaum, author of The Art of American Whiskey and the forthcoming Whiskey Bible, highlights the historical significance of rye whiskey in America. He notes that rye was America’s first great whiskey, traditionally made in copper pot stills. However, by the late 20th century, rye whiskey was on the brink of extinction. Anchor Distilling, now Hotaling & Co., played a crucial role in its revival with the launch of Old Potrero. This reintroduction is not merely a product launch but a renaissance of a significant part of American heritage.
Old Potrero Toasted Barrel Whiskey is set to be released on Thursday, July 4th, a date chosen to commemorate American Independence Day. This release celebrates not only the rebirth of a classic whiskey but also America's leadership in craft whiskey distilling. Bottled at 51.2% ABV, Old Potrero Toasted Barrel Whiskey will be available at a suggested retail price of $64.99 for a 700ml bottle.
The sensory experience of Old Potrero Toasted Barrel Whiskey is a testament to its craftsmanship. On the nose, it offers a bouquet of dark fruit, malt, lively spiciness, and a hint of vanilla. The palate is described as rich and complex, with balanced sweetness, fresh clean oak, pronounced rye spice, maltiness, and a pleasant grain character. The finish is long, lingering, and complex, providing a substantial mouthfeel and depth that whiskey aficionados will appreciate.
Dan Leese, CEO of Hotaling & Co., underscores the company’s long-standing dedication to artisanal spirits, a journey that began 30 years ago. He speaks with pride about the role of Old Potrero Whiskey in San Francisco’s drinking culture. According to Leese, Old Potrero Whiskey, like its birthplace, embodies boldness and innovation. The reintroduction of Old Potrero Toasted Barrel Whiskey is a continuation of this pioneering legacy, representing how integral the whiskey is to the city's history and the timeless traditions of American whiskey.
Hotaling & Co.’s commitment to preserving and enhancing the heritage of American whiskey is evident in every bottle of Old Potrero Toasted Barrel Whiskey. This reintroduction not only revives a historical spirit but also celebrates the artistry and dedication that go into producing such a distinctive whiskey.
For those interested in delving deeper into the story and offerings of Old Potrero, additional information can be found at OldPotrero.com. To learn more about Hotaling & Co. and their range of artisanal spirits, visit HotalingandCo.com. This release is more than just a new product on the market; it’s a revival of a tradition, bringing the rich history of American whiskey to the present and ensuring its legacy continues for future generations.
About Old Potrero Distillery
Old Potrero Distillery, located in San Francisco, California, is a renowned distillery that has played a significant role in the resurgence of craft whiskey in the United States. It was established by Fritz Maytag, a pioneer in the craft brewing and distilling movements, who is also known for revitalizing Anchor Brewing Company. Old Potrero is operated under the larger umbrella of Anchor Distilling Company, now known as Hotaling & Co.
The distillery is celebrated for its dedication to producing high-quality, small-batch spirits using traditional methods and innovative techniques. Old Potrero is particularly known for its rye whiskey, which has gained a loyal following among whiskey enthusiasts and connoisseurs.
One of the flagship products of Old Potrero is the Old Potrero 18th Century Style Whiskey. This whiskey is made from 100% rye malt, a tribute to the original American whiskeys produced in the 18th century. It is distilled in small copper pot stills and aged in lightly toasted oak barrels, which imparts a distinctive character and complexity to the whiskey. The result is a bold, spicy spirit with rich notes of rye grain, caramel, and a hint of oak.
Another notable product from the distillery is the Old Potrero Single Malt Straight Rye Whiskey. This expression is aged for several years in new charred American oak barrels, resulting in a more robust and mature flavor profile. It showcases the versatility of rye as a grain, offering deep flavors of vanilla, spice, and dried fruit, with a long and satisfying finish.
Old Potrero is also known for its experimental approach to distilling, often producing limited-edition and unique releases that explore different aspects of whiskey production. These releases might include variations in barrel aging, different types of rye grains, or other innovative techniques, allowing the distillery to continually push the boundaries of what rye whiskey can be.
The distillery's commitment to quality and craftsmanship is evident in every bottle they produce. By blending historical methods with modern innovation, Old Potrero has successfully carved out a niche in the competitive world of craft distilling. The distillery’s products are often sought after by collectors and whiskey aficionados who appreciate the distinct and carefully crafted flavors that Old Potrero offers.
Overall, Old Potrero Distillery stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of rye whiskey and the creativity that can be found in the craft spirits industry. Through its dedication to tradition, innovation, and quality, Old Potrero continues to be a prominent name in American whiskey, contributing to the rich tapestry of craft distilling in the United States.
