In a world where whiskey often sticks to the same old scripts, a new player is shaking things up with a blend that's as untamed as a wild horse charging across open plains. Altamar Brands has just rolled out High n’ Wicked Warlander Blended Straight Whiskey, a limited-edition release that's turning heads among those who appreciate a spirit with real backbone. This isn't just another bottle on the shelf—it's a carefully crafted fusion that marries tradition with a bold twist, complete with striking label art from a guy who's no stranger to pushing limits.
Picture this: a whiskey born from Kentucky's finest, blending three- and four-year-old straight rye and bourbon. The rye brings those lively fruit notes—think fresh pears and apples mixed with a kick of bright spices—while the high-rye bourbon adds layers of berry sweetness and rich caramel depth. Together, they create something that's greater than the sum of its parts, a drink that's bold, complex, and full of character. It's the kind of whiskey that reminds you why you fell in love with the stuff in the first place, evoking memories of late-night campfires or quiet evenings on the porch after a long day.
Image credit: Warlander Whiskey/Altamar Brands
The story behind Warlander starts with the folks at High n’ Wicked, a line that's all about honoring the old ways while delivering flavors that hit hard. Founded back in 2019 by W.L. Lyons Brown III as part of his Altamar Brands outfit, High n’ Wicked focuses on premium whiskeys that don't cut corners. Altamar itself kicked off in 2005 with a mission to hunt down and bring in those rare, artisanal spirits that tell a unique tale—things like Elvelo Tequila, Foursquare Rum, Kubler Absinthe, and a handful of others that stand out in a crowded market. Brown's vision was simple: find the esoteric stuff, the bottles with real soul, and share them with folks who get it.
For Warlander, the team didn't just throw things together. They went through rounds of blind tastings, pulling in bartenders, distillers, blenders, and spirits pros to weigh in. It was trial and error until they landed on this mix that outshone the individual whiskeys. Once blended, they didn't stop there—they rebarreled it in a mix of ex-bourbon and ex-rye casks, letting it rest for a bit over two months. That extra time lets the flavors weave together even deeper, creating a harmony that's smooth yet powerful. Then, they proofed it down slowly to 99 proof, a sweet spot chosen after more tastings to let every nuance shine through without overwhelming the senses.
Take a whiff, and you're hit with bright citrus right off the bat—grapefruit and lemon zest that evolve into caramelized orange with a touch of salted caramel. There's a strong baking spice vibe, layers of cinnamon and a dash of allspice, but it stays light and citrus-forward overall. Hints of green apple, grilled peaches, and even fresh dill sneak in, with a subtle black cherry lingering at the end. It's inviting, like stepping into a sunlit orchard with a subtle edge.
On the tongue, Warlander really comes alive. It's bold and expressive, packing a full, layered punch that fills your mouth. You get waves of caramel and lush, savory notes, followed by dark chocolate and cocoa nibs. Cherries and blackberries add a fruity depth, with black pepper and allspice kicking in on the finish. It's the type of sip that demands attention, perfect for savoring neat or over a single ice cube, maybe while swapping stories with old friends or unwinding after tackling a tough project.
What sets this bottle apart even more is the artwork on the label, courtesy of Chris Benchetler. This guy's a triple threat—an artist, filmmaker, and professional skier who's spent his life charging down mountains and capturing raw beauty in his work. His design for Warlander captures that same spirit: raw and refined, fearless in its approach. Named after the Warlander horse—a hybrid breed known for its strength and wild grace—the whiskey embodies that duality. It respects the classics of whiskey-making but breaks free from the mold, defying categories in a way that's refreshing for anyone tired of predictable pours.
And there's a heartfelt nod here too. This release is inspired by and dedicated to Dave Stringfellow, a late colleague whose influence clearly lingers in the dedication to quality and innovation. It's a reminder that behind every great spirit, there's a story of people pouring their passion into it.
At $54.99, Warlander isn't breaking the bank for a limited-edition gem like this. It's available online right now through the High n’ Wicked site, and it'll be hitting select markets across the U.S. soon. If you're the type who enjoys discovering something new—maybe to add to your collection or share at the next gathering—this one's worth tracking down. In an era where quality often trumps quantity, Warlander stands as a testament to what happens when you blend the best with a fearless attitude. It's not just whiskey; it's a statement in a glass, ready to redefine what you expect from your next dram.
