2014 WhistlePig Boss Hog Mortimer Straight Rye Whiskey 119.5 Proof 750ml

Condition notes: Minor scratches on the label

A testament to master blending and meticulous aging, WhistlePig The Boss Hog 13 Year Old (Barrel 41) is a single barrel rye whiskey hand-bottled directly from the farm in Vermont. This robust 119.5 proof expression delivers an unparalleled symphony of spice, sweetness, and oak complexity, perfect for the discerning collector or connoisseur.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A rich and complex bouquet unfolds with classic rye spice upfront – notes of spearmint, black pepper, and baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Deeper exploration reveals caramelized sugar, dried dark fruits (prune, fig), toasted oak, hints of maple, and a faint whisper of orange zest and tobacco leaf, showcasing its age and barrel influence.

Palate: The palate is robust and full-bodied, delivering a powerful yet balanced explosion of flavors. Initial warmth of high proof gives way to sweet caramel, vanilla bean, and dark chocolate, quickly followed by a wave of vibrant rye spice – dill, anise, and a lingering peppery heat. Undertones of leather, aged oak tannins, and a subtle stone fruit sweetness (cherry, apricot) add layers of complexity, with a creamy, almost buttery texture.

Finish: A long, evolving, and exceptionally satisfying finish. The warmth persists, carrying notes of spiced oak, dark honey, and lingering vanilla. A pleasant menthol cooling sensation emerges, intertwined with a touch of roasted coffee bean and a dry, leathery earthiness. The rye spice gently fades, leaving behind a memorable impression of complexity and maturity.