Old Potrero, a name that carries weight in the world of American whiskey, has just unveiled its 2025 California Cellar Series, and it’s making waves for all the right reasons. This San Francisco-based distillery, under the Hotaling & Co. banner, has a knack for blending tradition with bold innovation. Their latest release features two rye whiskeys that showcase California’s rich craft beverage culture, marrying the state’s iconic rye whiskey with unique barrel finishes from local producers. These limited-edition expressions are hitting shelves in July 2025, and they’re poised to be a hit for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted pour with a story to tell.
A Toast to California Craftsmanship
The first of the two whiskeys is the Old Potrero Toasted Barrel Rye Whiskey Finished in Gundlach Bundschu Gewurztraminer Barrels. This one starts with a base of rye whiskey aged for five years and eight months in new, fine-grain toasted American oak barrels. What makes it stand out is the additional 14 months it spends in barrels previously used by Gundlach Bundschu, a Sonoma winery with roots dating back to the 1850s. These barrels once held Gewurztraminer, a white wine known for its aromatic and fruity profile, and they impart a distinctive character to the whiskey. Bottled at a robust 57.3% ABV, this expression greets the nose with inviting aromas of ripe fruit, fresh-cut grass, caramel, and a touch of exotic lychee. On the palate, it delivers a smooth yet complex mix of candied caramel, juicy cantaloupe, and tropical fruit notes. The finish is where it really shines, leaving lingering hints of floral tones, zesty ginger root, and a subtle fruitiness that invites another sip. At $79.99 for a 700 mL bottle, it’s a steal for a whiskey this nuanced.
The second offering, the Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in Almanac Beer Co. Imperial Stout Oak Barrels, takes a different approach but is no less impressive. This whiskey begins with a six-year, six-month aging process in new charred American oak barrels, giving it a solid rye foundation. It then gets a five-month finish in barrels that previously held a custom imperial stout from Almanac Beer Co., a California brewery known for its bold, flavorful brews. These barrels, which aged the stout for eight months, add a layer of depth that sets this whiskey apart. Bottled at 57.5% ABV, it opens with a rich aroma of chocolate, a whisper of vanilla, and the earthy, slightly musty scent of a barrel rickhouse. When it hits the tongue, expect a warm, inviting blend of caramel, roasted malt, and spiced apricot that dances between sweet and savory. The finish is thick and lingering, with deep stone fruit flavors and a kick of rye spice that keeps things lively. Like its counterpart, this expression is priced at $79.99 for a 700 mL bottle, making it an accessible way to experience a truly unique whiskey.
The Story Behind the Sip
What makes these releases special isn’t just their flavor profiles—it’s the story behind them. Old Potrero has long been a pioneer in American craft whiskey, credited with bringing pot-distilled rye back to the U.S. after Prohibition. Founded by Fritz Maytag, the same visionary who sparked the craft beer movement with Anchor Brewing, the distillery has been crafting 100% malted rye whiskeys in small copper pot stills since 1993. This commitment to quality and tradition shines through in the California Cellar Series, which celebrates the state’s vibrant wine and craft beer industries. By collaborating with local producers like Gundlach Bundschu and Almanac Beer Co., Old Potrero is showcasing California’s spirit of innovation and its deep agricultural roots, which account for over 85% of the nation’s wine production and make it home to more breweries than any other state.
The 2025 California Cellar Series builds on the success of previous releases, which included collaborations with wineries like Silver Oak and Sonoma Portworks. Those earlier expressions proved that finishing rye whiskey in wine barrels could create something extraordinary, and this year’s offerings take it a step further by incorporating both wine and beer barrel finishes. The result is a pair of whiskeys that feel distinctly Californian—bold, creative, and deeply connected to the land. Whether you’re a longtime rye fan or someone looking to explore something new, these bottles offer a chance to taste the intersection of craft distilling, winemaking, and brewing.
How to Enjoy These Whiskeys
For those who enjoy savoring their whiskey, both expressions are versatile enough to enjoy neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail like a Manhattan or Old Fashioned. The Gewurztraminer-finished rye, with its floral and fruity notes, pairs beautifully with a charcuterie board or a light dessert like lemon tart, while the imperial stout-finished rye, with its richer, malt-driven profile, stands up well to hearty dishes like smoked brisket or dark chocolate. These whiskeys aren’t just drinks—they’re conversation starters, perfect for sharing with friends over a good meal or a quiet evening by the fire.
Where to Find Them
Available starting in July 2025, these limited-edition bottles are expected to sell out quickly, given their highly allocated nature and the growing buzz around Old Potrero’s innovative approach. You can find them at select retailers in key markets or purchase them online through the Hotaling & Co. Bottle Shop or OldPotrero.com. At $79.99 each, they’re priced to be approachable yet feel like a special treat, making them a great addition to any whiskey collection or a thoughtful gift for someone who appreciates the finer things.
A Celebration of California’s Spirit
Old Potrero’s 2025 California Cellar Series is more than just a release—it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, collaboration, and the unique flavors that make California a powerhouse in the world of food and drink. Whether you’re drawn to the bright, fruity complexity of the Gewurztraminer-finished rye or the rich, malty depth of the imperial stout-finished expression, these whiskeys offer something for every palate. Don’t wait too long to grab a bottle—these are the kinds of releases that become legends among whiskey enthusiasts.
