In a world where mass-produced booze floods the shelves, there's something refreshing about a distillery that takes its time and sticks to its roots. Caledonia Spirits, the folks behind the popular Barr Hill Gin, just rolled out Phyllis Vermont Rye Whiskey. This isn't just another bottle—it's the first core whiskey they'll offer year-round in their Phyllis Whiskey lineup. That lineup already features things like single barrel picks, custom blends, and whiskeys that get extra aging in special barrels. For the team at Caledonia, this launch feels like a big win after more than a decade of hard work in the whiskey game.
Ryan Christiansen, who serves as both president and head distiller, put it best in a recent announcement: “This has been a journey of patience, education, and connection with Vermont.” He went on to explain how they've been setting aside barrels of rye for over 10 years, just waiting for the right moment. “We’ve been storing away barrels of rye for over 10 years. Now it’s time to share.” It's that kind of long-game thinking that sets this whiskey apart from the quick-turn stuff you see everywhere.
What makes Phyllis Vermont Rye Whiskey special starts with where it comes from and how it's made. Everything happens right at their spot in Vermont—distilling, aging, and bottling. They've pulled together spirits from across their 10-plus years of whiskey production to create this one. The recipe, or mashbill as they call it in the industry, is 84 percent winter rye mixed with 16 percent barley. These grains aren't just any old stuff; they're grown responsibly in the region, helping out local farmers and keeping the soil in good shape.
Winter rye is a tough grain that handles the cold Northeast winters like a champ. It brings a bold, peppery kick to the whiskey, along with hints of caramel, vanilla, and those warm baking spices that make you think of home-cooked meals. But it's not just about taste—choosing winter rye is smart for the environment too. It helps the ground soak up water better, cuts down on erosion, and adds organic matter to the soil, making the land healthier for the long haul. Pair that with the distillery's setup that runs on solar power, and you've got a whiskey that's as kind to the planet as it is to your glass. This whole approach shows a real commitment to doing things sustainably, without cutting corners.
Christiansen didn't hold back when talking about why this matters. “The status quo is depleting and polluting our lands, while selling generic whiskey that largely comes from the same factories,” he said. Then he drove the point home: “Phyllis won’t be a part of that. If we plant seeds in the ground, we feed the soil. If we put whiskey in a barrel, we do it with patience. And if you’re going to buy a bottle of Phyllis Rye whiskey, you’re going to know it’s made the right way.” It's a straightforward message that hits home for anyone who's tired of the same old industrial slop and wants something with real story behind it.
Phyllis isn't just a name slapped on a bottle—it's got layers. The Phyllis Whiskey collection comes from Caledonia Spirits, who've picked up awards for their Barr Hill lineup. This rye whiskey is all about tying together the world of cocktails with farming, using practices that are good for the earth and keeping everything above board. They call it their "Landcrafted" mission, which basically means they're focused on making spirits that support agriculture without harming it. The name Phyllis honors two things: the copper still they use to make the whiskey, and Christiansen's own grandmother. It's a nod to family ties, old-school traditions, and that independent streak Vermont is known for. If you want to dig deeper, their site at https://www.phylliswhiskey.com/ has more on all that.
Clocking in at 93 proof, this whiskey packs a solid punch without overwhelming you. The suggested retail price is around $55, which feels fair for something crafted with this much care. Right now, you can grab it year-round at the Caledonia Spirits Distillery in Montpelier, Vermont. They've also got it at select stores across the state, and they're expanding to New Hampshire distributors soon. It's the kind of bottle you'd pick up for a quiet evening by the fire or to share with buddies over stories from the good old days.
Looking back, Caledonia's path to this release shows what happens when you prioritize quality over speed. They've been in the spirits business for years, starting with gin and building up their whiskey program bit by bit. That patience pays off in every sip of Phyllis Vermont Rye. The robust rye flavor, those sweet undertones of caramel and vanilla, and the spicy finish—it's all there because they let time do its work in those barrels. And knowing it's made from grains that actually help the land, not hurt it, adds a layer of satisfaction that's hard to find in big-brand options.
For guys who appreciate a good pour after a long day, this whiskey fits right in. It's not flashy or overhyped; it's honest work in a bottle. Whether you're new to rye or have a shelf full of favorites, Phyllis offers a taste of Vermont's grit and green thinking. As the distillery keeps growing their portfolio with those single barrels and special finishes, it's clear they're in it for the long run. This core release is just the start, but it's already turning heads for all the right reasons.
In the end, Phyllis Vermont Rye Whiskey reminds us that great things come from sticking to principles. It's a whiskey that respects the earth, honors heritage, and delivers on flavor—proving that doing it the right way is always worth the wait. If you're in Vermont or nearby, swing by the distillery or check local spots. Who knows, it might just become your new go-to.
