Wyoming Whiskey has once again stepped into the limelight with the announcement of its latest release, the much-anticipated 2024 edition of Outryder Straight American Whiskey. In the realm of spirits, where tradition often reigns supreme, Outryder stands apart as a whiskey that defies categorization, straddling the line between bourbon and rye with an enigmatic allure that has captivated connoisseurs since its inception.
Image credit: Wyoming Whiskey
The genesis of Outryder is as compelling as its flavor profile. It all began with a challenge issued by co-founder David DeFazio to the distiller of the time, none other than the esteemed Bourbon Hall of Famer, Steve Nally. DeFazio's request was simple yet audacious: to create a rye whiskey that would bear the Wyoming Whiskey stamp of excellence. However, Nally, wary of the notorious challenges associated with working with rye, initially balked at the idea. Rye, with its propensity to clog machinery and complicate the production process, was not a spirit for the faint of heart. Yet, under the persistent encouragement of the founders, Nally reluctantly acquiesced to their request.
In the year 2011, under Nally's expert guidance, two distinct whiskies were laid down in the hallowed barrels of Wyoming Whiskey's warehouses: one composed primarily of rye and the other a bourbon infused with rye. However, when the time came to unveil the fruits of Nally's labor, an unexpected revelation emerged. The so-called "rye" whiskey contained a mere 48% rye in its mash bill, falling short of the threshold required for classification as a true rye whiskey. Despite this deviation from the original plan, DeFazio was astonished by the exceptional quality of Nally's creation, leading to the birth of Wyoming Whiskey Outryder—a testament to the artistry and innovation that define the distillery's ethos.
Image credit: Wyoming Whiskey
Since its inaugural release in 2016, Outryder has continued to push the boundaries of what constitutes American whiskey, earning a devoted following among aficionados and critics alike. However, the 2024 edition heralds a significant departure from its predecessors. For the first time in its storied history, Outryder embraces a 51% rye recipe, marrying the classic high-rye bourbon with a genuine rye whiskey. This bold endeavor promises to imbue the spirit with a depth of flavor and complexity previously unexplored, further solidifying its status as a trailblazer in the world of whiskey.
According to DeFazio, the barrels selected for the 2024 release have weathered the passage of time, maturing through the heat of seven summer seasons in Wyoming Whiskey's warehouses. Each barrel, meticulously chosen for its exceptional quality and distinctive flavor profile, contributes to the harmonious symphony of aromas and tastes that define Outryder. From the inviting scent of baked orchard fruit infused with cinnamon and chocolate hazelnut to the rich palate of maple syrup, candied walnuts, and orange bitters, each sip offers a sensory journey unparalleled in its depth and complexity. The finish, characterized by lingering notes of chocolate and espresso bean, leaves a lasting impression—a testament to the craftsmanship and dedication invested in every bottle of Outryder.
With an ABV of 50% and 100 proof, the 2024 Outryder is bottled to perfection, ready to enthrall whiskey enthusiasts with its exquisite flavor profile and unparalleled character. Priced at $84.99, this exclusive release is a testament to Wyoming Whiskey's commitment to excellence and innovation, inviting discerning palates to embark on a journey of discovery unlike any other. As Outryder continues to redefine the boundaries of American whiskey, it stands as a shining example of the artistry and ingenuity that define the spirit of Wyoming Whiskey—a legacy that continues to inspire and delight whiskey lovers around the world.
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About Wyoming Whiskey
Wyoming Whiskey is a relatively young but rapidly emerging American craft distillery located in Kirby, Wyoming. Founded in 2009 by the Mead family, it represents a new generation of whiskey producers in the United States. The distillery's location in the heart of Wyoming's Big Horn Basin provides access to the pure mountain water from the nearby Bighorn Mountains, a key ingredient in their whiskey production.
One of Wyoming Whiskey's standout features is its dedication to crafting small-batch, handcrafted bourbon. The distillery takes pride in producing all aspects of their whiskey in-house, from mashing the grains to distillation and aging. This hands-on approach allows for meticulous quality control throughout the entire whiskey-making process.
Wyoming Whiskey's flagship product, the Wyoming Whiskey Small Batch Bourbon, has garnered acclaim for its rich and well-balanced flavor profile. Made from a mash bill primarily consisting of corn, along with wheat, malted barley, and a touch of rye, it is aged in new American oak barrels for a minimum of five years. The result is a bourbon with notes of caramel, vanilla, and a subtle spiciness that has gained recognition among bourbon enthusiasts.
In addition to their Small Batch Bourbon, Wyoming Whiskey offers a variety of limited-edition releases and single barrel expressions. These offerings showcase the distillery's commitment to innovation and experimentation, allowing whiskey lovers to explore different facets of their craft.
Wyoming Whiskey's commitment to quality and the use of locally sourced ingredients have contributed to its reputation as one of the rising stars in the American whiskey scene. The distillery's emphasis on sustainability and community engagement aligns with the values of the Wyoming community, further solidifying its place in the craft whiskey landscape.
The distillery also offers tours and tastings, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn about their production process and appreciate the unique flavors of Wyoming-made bourbon. In summary, Wyoming Whiskey is an exciting addition to the American craft whiskey scene, known for its small-batch, handcrafted bourbon and its commitment to quality, tradition, and sustainability. With a focus on excellence and a growing reputation, Wyoming Whiskey is poised for continued success in the world of American whiskey.
