Single Barrel Series
The Single Barrel Series is designed to provide our customers with a one-of-a-kind American Whiskey experience that combines the traditions of American Whiskey with our desire to use a wide range of innovative exploration to create truly rare and distinctive whiskeys.
The combination of our years of expertise in American Whiskey and strong relationships with top distillers, distilleries, bottlers, retailers, and brand owners provides the necessary level of trust to introduce the tradition and spirit of independent bottling as perfected for decades in Scotch to American Whiskey.
Rare Character maintains a vast rotating menu of barrels that show a wide array of aromatics, flavor profiles, and weights.
This series is our handpicked selection of robust straight bourbons, ryes, and our specially finished whiskies. The Single Barrel Series consists of a constantly rotating menu of available barrels, including everything from classic Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskeys and Ryes, to unique mash bills found in small barrel lots to unique finishes such as Madeira and PX Sherry.
Explore the Collection
DYN
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 10 Years+
Mash bill: 74% Corn / 18% Rye / 8% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: Maroon
Cooperage: ISCABOUT
Distilled by a beloved Kentucky distillery, DYN’s are a perfect example of what happens when every barrel you plan for a project deserves to become single barrels. With 18% rye in the mash bill, there is a kiss of spice on the palate but the high corn content keeps it sweet and balanced. DYN combines cherry cola with tobacco for a fun profile that continuously delivers. A testament to the quality of a revered Kentucky distillery, the barrels selected for DYN were so exceptional that they all warranted designation as single barrels. The mash bill features an 18% rye content, which contributes a delicate hint of spice, beautifully balanced by the high corn content that ensures a consistent sweetness. DYN offers a delightful and dependable profile, characterized by notes of cherry cola and tobacco.
NOSE
Sweet oak, cherry syrup, cookie dough, vanilla wafer, tobacco, ground coffee, and allspice.
TASTE
Oily mouthfeel; clove, black pepper, vanilla custard, cherry cola, oak tannins, charred oak, maple syrup, brown sugar, and caramel.
FINISH
With a long finish, DYN keeps the rye spices up front; layering in nutmeg, allspice, clove, and pepper, before turning into a sweet medley of vanilla cream, caramel, and mixed berries. Cherry cola rounds out the palate with some slight drying oak tannins and tobacco for an extra complex finish.
DYM
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 10 Years+
Mash bill: 74% Corn / 18% Rye / 8% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: Amethyst
COOPERAGE: ISC Char 4ABOUT
With an 18% rye content, DYM sits right in the middle of what is considered traditional rye and high rye content. This helps provide a balanced mouthfeel with layers of spices and berries. DYM keeps true to what is traditional Kentucky Bourbon, bottled at cask strength, this particular run of barrels was chosen for its unique qualities we often search for in higher aged bourbons, such as, tobacco, leather, oak, and buttercream frosting.
NOSE
Blackberry jam, cherry syrup, roasted nuts, oxidized oak, buttercream frosting, cardamom, allspice, dark maple syrup, burnt sugars, and hints of ginger.
TASTE
Oily mouthfeel: DYM greets your palate with creamy vanilla custard, cherry cola, ginger spice, chewy caramel, bold oak, allspice, orange peel, dried tobacco, and tanned leather.
FINISH
Long finish: Buttercream and cherry cola fade into layers of allspice, orange bitters, and oak, before softening up with light brown sugar, butterscotch, tobacco, and more cola.
HRC
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 10 Years, 6 Months+
Mash bill: 60% Corn / 36% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Indiana
Aged in: Indiana
Wax Color: Amethyst
COOPERAGE: CantonABOUT
HRC, short for High Rye Canton, is distilled and aged in Indiana during a time when barrels were not able to be produced fast enough to keep up with distillation runs across the country. Enter Canton Cooperage, predominantly used with wine, these are a heavy char new oak barrel that bring strong fruit flavors and heavy notes of char and vanilla. HRC is a small run of barrels that will not be around forever and for those who want something unique on this 36% rye mashbill.
NOSE
Soft notes of sweet oak, strawberry, creamy caramel; followed by clover honey, sun tea, and expressed citrus peel. The barrel comes through very strongly but without over powering the whiskey, letting the rye grain poke through brightening up the experience. Fresh baked rye bread, cherry, and black pepper round out the nose.
TASTE
HRC brings a light bit of heat, even with their lower proofs, the age and oak tannins provide a creamy texture and hit every part of the palate. Honey and fruit candies with a hint of cinnamon, HRC really lays into the high rye heavy profile. Toasted almonds, graham crackers, strawberry jam hit the mid palate and carry through to the back with nuances of toasted oak and toffee.
FINISH
Starting the finish, that strawberry jam note, HRC tricks you into thinking this is going to be nothing but candy; enter the cracked black pepper, a touch of mint, and honey tea, the finish gives off rye whiskey vibes, but in a good way! Barrel char and more vanilla come through with thick layers of honey and citrus. Letting HRC open in the glass will allow more barrel notes and cornbread sweetness, balancing hefty amounts of char with subtle sweet flavors that remind you this is a bourbon that is like no other.
N21
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 8 Years+
Mash bill: 70% Corn / 21% Rye / 9% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: Pastel Yellow
COOPERAGE: Mix of ISC and KelvinNOSE
Sweet honey, herbaceous tea, sweet cream, caramel, clove, dried fruit, tart citrus, and sugar cookie.
TASTE
Dense mouthfeel; Caramel chews, vanilla cream, sweet tea, toasted sugars, roasted nuts, spiced tobacco, brown butter, charred oak, and hint of peach.
FINISH
Long finish which kicks off with peach sweet tea, fresh vanilla bean and loads of caramel. Oak tannins create an effervescent sensation which lends to the clove and pepper baking spices before rounding out with orange zest and tobacco.
ELE
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 11 Years+
Mash bill: 78% Corn / 13% Rye / 9% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: Copper
COOPERAGE: ISCABOUT
For those who want vintage notes like musty oak, leather, and oxidized brown sugar. ELE are as unique as they will be rare. Aged on the top floors of their original warehouse, ELE are high proof hitters that are big on flavor and age.
NOSE
Charred marshmallow, oxidized brown sugar, musty oak, floral honey, and French vanilla leading into burnt toffee, roasted nuts, and dried cherries. Baking spices such as cardamom, clove, and black pepper create an expressive nose that keeps you coming back.
TASTE
ELE brings out the big guns, kicking it off with a bunch of earthy notes of aged oak, leather, and dried tobacco, with dried cherry and brown sugar breaking through as well, along with nuances of vanilla, cola spices, and more dried fruit. With a thick, dense mouthfeel, ELE coats the palate and allows for time in between sips to really dig deep.
FINISH
ELE has a long length finish, notes of cola spice, dried cherry, and bold oak at the start, with nuances of brown sugar and baking spices throughout. Tobacco and vanilla lend to the well-aged profile and round off the finish for a complete experience.
BRW
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 10 Years+
Mash bill: 70% Corn / 21% Rye / 9% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: Cream
COOPERAGE: KelvinABOUT
BRW carries a mash that has become well known with Kentucky Bourbon the last few years, but BRW were actually contract distilled before this distillery was back open and operational. Aged in Kentucky their whole time, BRW is a big profile that pleases those who enjoy proof, oak and tannin rich flavor, with various layers and depth on the finish.
NOSE
Starting with brown butter and maple syrup; oak and tobacco come through with a touch of baking spice and brown sugar. A hint of charred oak and slight mesquite smoke are present with a strong sweet undertone still on the nose. With time in the glass, the deep dark notes transition over into more delicate dark fruit with hints of cocoa and white pepper.
TASTE
BRW hits hard up front with a nice layering of oak, vanilla, and maple. Every sip starts with something unique; from cranberry and vanilla, to fresh cracked pepper and cinnamon sugar. BRW carries a very thick and syrupy mouthfeel that also lends to the darker maple/molasses notes that are very present. Big tannins and oak spice come through the mid palate, giving off much older aged flavors than expected. Strong leather and rickhouse floor notes continue to add the feeling that this could be blinded as a much older bourbon.
FINISH
Black cherry, cranberry, and cocoa nibs start the finish; blood orange and lemon citrus medley adding a nice acidic component to balance the dry tannins and ethanol present. Maple and vanilla are a strong layer as well, with burnt caramel, black pepper, and tobacco rounding out the finish. BRW is a wave of flavors that will please those who want the darker, more oak heavy notes and with a splash of water, BRW blossoms into a sweeter finish with vanilla buttercream and sugar cookie dough.
AQU
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 9 Years+
Mash bill: 70% Corn / 21% Rye / 9% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: Mint Blue
COOPERAGE: KelvinABOUT
Some of the oldest stocks from this historic distillery, AQU is for those wanting a bold profile and a lasting experience.
NOSE
Burnt sugars, vintage cola spices, charred oak, sweet cream, honey graham crackers, raspberry puree, muddled citrus.
TASTE
Bold yet silky mouthfeel; spiced citrus with red berries up front; followed by sweet oak, cinnamon sugar, butterscotch, vanilla cola, and well aged tobacco.
FINISH
Long length; waves upon waves of red fruit, oak, and cola, with a slight punch of black pepper, cardamom, and brown sugar, rounding out with creamy vanilla, more berries, and tobacco.
HRK
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 11 Years+
Mash bill: 60% Corn / 36% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Indiana
Aged in: Indiana
Wax Color: Golden NuggetABOUT
HRK, short for High Rye Kelvin, is an Indiana distilled and aged 36% high rye bourbon, which is sure to please anyone who are fans of the older single barrels that were highly sought after from Indiana. Cherry cola notes, subtle hints of musty oak, rich vanilla, and balanced spices. Over a decade in waiting, HRK brings the flavor for anyone wanting a truly exceptional pour, sip after sip.
NOSE
Kicking off with burnt sugars, toasted oak, and bright cherry; HRK then transitions into cola flavors, such as, clove, oak, caramel, and vanilla. Subtle notes of brown sugar, maple, and sweet tea come through before fading away into honey grahams and cinnamon sugar.
TASTE
With a silky mouthfeel, HRK leads off with cherry cola, oxidized oak, and brown sugar; trailing behind that comes black pepper, vanilla cream cheese frosting, with dried spiced tobacco. Giving way to the more airy flavors like raspberry whipped cream and herbal bread - HRK carries with it a lot of range and flavors that make you sit and think about each sip.
FINISH
HRK has a medium-long finish, with savory hints of oak and pepper, before transitioning into a cherry cola bomb that is more syrupy in nature. Think pretzel coated in caramel and burnt toffee with nuances of dried berries and balanced oak.
MEL
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 9 Years+
Mash bill: 75% Corn / 13% Rye / 12% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: WatermelonNOSE
Soft brown sugar, light citrus zest, oxidized oak, rickhouse floor, vanilla, butterscotch and a medley of baking spices.
TASTE
Buttery mouthfeel, MEL hits with a touch of black pepper, citrus, and vanilla on the front palate; caramel, oak, and nutmeg follow suit mid palate before rounding out with notes of dried cherry, honey, black tea, and butterscotch.
FINISH
Medium length finish, MEL allows the whiskey to tell its story without being too brash or in your face. The finish starts soft with a base of caramel, oak and vanilla, folding in layers of citrus, black tea, honey, and more oak. MEL is for those who want to savor, but not for too long and enjoy each sip with confidence it will taste great each time.
99C
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 10 Years, 6 Months+
Mash bill: 99% Corn / 1% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Indiana
Aged in: Indiana
Wax Color: RedNOSE
Sweet notes of fruity candy, white sugar, vanilla, toasted oak, caramel, honey graham cereal, and a touch of cinnamon.
TASTE
Light/Delicate mouthfeel. 99C starts with a touch of proof, you are hit with some baking spices such as cinnamon and clove, then quickly followed up by honey grahams, vanilla, and toasted oak. The bright sugary candy notes bring it all together for a balance of tannins and sugars, rounding out the palate with caramel and vanilla.
FINISH
Medium-Long finish. The finish starts with caramel and vanilla, cinnamon finds its way back in with nuances of charred oak, lemon zest, and graham cracker. One thing 99C does well is the sweet component, red fruit candies are consistent across the board and really bring out a unique flavor; that seems to work with the citrus, oak, and confectionary flavors.
20L
American Light Whiskey
Aged: 20 Years+
Mash bill: 99% Corn / 1% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Indiana
Aged in: Indiana
Wax Color: Sand duneNOSE
Rickhouse floor, vanilla buttercream, creme Brulé, oxidized vintage oak, maple syrup, pound cake, and powdered sugar.
TASTE
Thick/Syrupy. 20L starts off with a hefty amount of oak tannins and maple syrup with a touch of brown sugar. Going from a slight savory quality to a deep, dark and bold roasted coffee with vanilla buttercream, caramel, and black pepper. Following suit, are more sweet notes of powdered sugar, toffee, and a hint of cocoa powder.
FINISH
Extra Long finish. 20L punches hard on the finish, which being around hazmat, it should. Bold notes of oak tannins, slight touches of ethanol, and bold vanilla cream notes - this is meant for those who want their whiskey to talk back to them. Cocoa powder, vanilla buttercream, and maple syrup are key defining notes that make your palate want more sweetness, but then 20L introduces strong flavors of oak and coffee.
F13/HF13
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 8 Years+
Mash bill: 78% Corn / 13% Rye / 9% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: Gold (F13) / Tallow (HF13)NOSE
Baking chocolate, light tobacco, charred oak, black pepper, Tahitian vanilla bean, brown sugar, and spiced citrus.
TASTE
Sharp mouthfeel with strong tannins. Dried fruits; think raisin and plums, brown sugar, leather, dark chocolate, big oak, and vanilla.
FINISH
Medium to long finish. Slight bite of oak and tannins on the front, vanilla and caramel are the big flavors through the finish with nuances of dried fruit and a hefty seasoning of black pepper, clove, and oak.
JIT
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 7 Years+
Mash bill: 75% Corn / 21% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: PurpleABOUT
Named JIT for Pablo’s literal timing to show up before the first meeting to offer this run, JIT stands for “Just In Time,” and while it’s an inside joke, it spread to the label because the business is always moving at different paces to make sure we can deliver the best possible product.
NOSE
A delightful blend of honey graham cracker, sweet vanilla, soft oak, and light baking spice. These notes are carried on a honeyed trail, with subtle hints of maple, citrus oil, cherry pie, and cinnamon sugar glaze.
TASTE
On the palate, you’ll find a delightful combination of flavors reminiscent of freshly baked goods with light spiced nuances. Imagine the sweetness of honey graham crackers, the warmth of cinnamon sugar crumbles, the light brown sugar of sugar cookies, and the tanginess of tart blueberries. These flavors are complemented by a subtle touch of oak tannins and cardamom, adding depth and complexity to the overall taste experience.
FINISH
With a medium-long finish, JIT leads the way with a light brown sugar, ripe berry, and sugar glaze. Midway through, it introduces more graham cracker notes and toasted marshmallows with a sweet oak presence. Continuing on, it hints at caramel corn, black pepper, and browned butter. JIT perfectly sits in the slightly decadent area of the flavor wheel, with nuances of spice, citrus, and caramel.
SBG
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 8 Years+
Mash bill: 75% Corn / 21% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: Bright YellowABOUT
The fourth iteration into the “One company, Two distilleries, different aging location” run - SBG is a sister to the KOA, VEN, and GLN.
TASTE
With a stronger spice forward flavor profile, SBG is very silky on the palate and also comes with some delectable citrus and brown sugar notes. SBG’s carry a little bit of flavors similar to the other three, but having been aged on pallets versus traditional rickhouse aging, you retain more of the barrel char and consistency across the profile.
FINISH
With a medium-long finish, SBG goes in waves, like the palate. The underlying baking spice is a nice foundation that hits every part of the tongue and combined with a bit of earthiness, it helps with the nuances of honey, brown sugar, oak, and vanilla to make their way forward adding depth and complexity. SBG’s have a lot in common on the finish with GLN and VEN, but are more spice forward across the board.
W45
Wheated Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 8 Years+
Mash bill: 51% Corn / 45% Wheat / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Indiana
Aged in: Indiana
Wax Color: Navy BlueABOUT
With a super high wheat content, 45%, W45 is exactly what you want if you crave sweet and love caramel and vanilla! With a corn content of 51%, this barely legal wheated bourbon is cranked up to 11 compared to other wheaters you may encounter. This is a small, yet fun, run of barrels that we wanted to do for a while now, but had to wait for the right time to start showing them off. If you are a fan of softer, high proof wheat bourbons, W45 is what you’re looking for!
10K
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 10 Years+
Mash bill: 75% Corn / 13% Rye / 12% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: BlackABOUT
10K is a run of barrels, similar to a few others we initially set aside to enhance depth and age our RCLR series. While some of these barrels were blended, we reserved all those that possessed the additional “oomph” we sought in a higher-aged Single Barrel Series expression. We could have easily incorporated these barrels into the Exceptional Series, but we believed they would be best enjoyed at a lower price point while still delivering exceptional quality. The foundation of this bourbon is a medley of light brown sugar, vanilla, and dried leather, complemented by subtle notes of light cherry, oak, and caramel. We hope you’ll enjoy 10K, as there are fewer than 30 of these barrels that went to market, and they are scattered far and wide!
VER
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 7 Years+
Mash bill: 75% Corn / 21% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: MustardABOUT
This bourbon boasts a bold and robust spice on the nose and palate, making it a must-try for enthusiasts of deep and intricate pours. Rich in oak, burnt citrus, and dried fruit, it’s an irresistible allure that compels you to keep sniffing and savoring each sip. Imagine the essence of autumn approaching, capturing the dry leaves, the warmth of the season, and the impending chill. This bourbon is as unique and captivating as we can offer.
NOSE
On the nose, this fragrance features dark brown sugars, burnt orange peel, dried berries, toasted oak, vanilla cream, and black pepper.
PLT
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 10 Years+
Mash bill: 78% Corn / 13% Rye / 9% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: PlatinumABOUT
PLT, short for Platinum, is the name behind this quality lot of Single Barrel Series code. These barrels, which have been aged over a decade in oak, consistently produce higher proof, averaging around 65% ABV with intense flavors of French vanilla and layered oak. While we believe every code we release is of exceptional quality, we felt compelled to share these amazing barrels with the world after tasting them!
NOSE
The nose is greeted with sweet notes, including toffee, graham cracker, and French vanilla. These are followed by earthy notes of musty oak, dried tobacco, rickhouse floor, and strong cinnamon bark. The nose is bold and inviting, allowing you to sniff it continuously. It provides a clear indication of what to expect on the palate.
TASTE
The palate offers a delightful journey, featuring spiced tobacco leaf, vanilla bean, chewy toffee, and cinnamon candy, followed by spiced caramel, peanut brittle, black tea, and rich oak. Similar to that of a well aged cigar, PLT is a range of flavors that just keeps going.
FINISH
With a long finish, you’ll find flavors of cardamom, cayenne pepper, rickhouse floor; layers of aged oak, and sweet oak. There are also touches of toffee, brown sugar, and French vanilla. The finish hits with waves of oak, spice, and vanilla, which may sound stereotypical, but each sip extends the finish more and more, allowing you to sit and truly experience why we considered these as “Platinum.”
K45
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 7 Years+
Mash bill: 51% Corn / 45% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: Antique GoldABOUT
K45, while not likely to be the highest rye bourbon you’ll ever encounter, certainly stands out! With only the minimum amount of corn required to qualify as bourbon, you might expect a spicy flavor due to its 45% rye mashbill. Aged in a historic Kentucky warehouse, this barrel code offers an inviting profile with notes of sweet citrus and vanilla.
NOSE
With a pleasant orange peel aroma, you’ll also find notes of vanilla, baking spice, and rye bread with a touch of oak present on the nose.
FINISH
With its exceptionally high rye content, this whiskey delivers a long, vibrant finish bursting with the flavors of orange zest, black pepper, and notes of honey, fresh baked rye bread, bruleed sugars, and cinnamon.
VTO
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 9 Years+
Mash bill: 75% Corn / 21% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Indiana
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: Bright PurpleABOUT
Ventuno, or VTO for short, is a popular mashbill that we all know and love. Originating from Indiana, VTO’s unique aging process in Kelvin Char 4 barrels within the bluegrass state exposes them to a wide range of temperature swings and humidity. This meticulous aging process results in a deep, dark, and rich bourbon with a complex flavor profile, featuring notes of vintage cherry cola and tobacco.
NOSE
Upon sniffing the glass, you’re greeted with a delightful aroma of cherry syrup, dense oak, sarsaparilla, vanilla cream, baking spice, and subtle notes of butterscotch.
TASTE
Across your palate, you’ll find similar notes to those on your nose, ranging from root beer to cream soda, and even cherry vanilla cola. These notes are complemented by nuances of butterscotch, baking spice, and tobacco.
FINISH
This barrel code offers a medium-long finish that reminds you of its cola bomb nature. It features caramel, butterscotch, vanilla, and light baking spice flavors in the middle, followed by dry leather, tobacco, and aged oak notes at the end.
SEG
Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
Aged: 8 Years+
Mash bill: 30% Corn / 64% Rye / 6% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: Metallic BlueABOUT
SEG, short for segale, is an Italian word for rye. This unique run carries distinct earthy flavors and spices, with a rye content of 64%, SEG offers a harmonious blend for those who prefer rye-forward profiles and sweet notes from corn and malt, reminiscent of caramel and vanilla.
NOSE
The nose offers deep rye with the aroma of lime zest, burnt caramel, toffee, whipped cream, rosemary, clove, nutmeg, thyme, and cardamom.
TASTE
This series of barrels showcases a diverse array of citrus flavors, including lime zest, grapefruit, and lemon, as well as unique herbal notes like thyme and rosemary.
GLN
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 8 Years+
Mash bill: 75% Corn / 21% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: SilverABOUT
These barrels almost read like a wheated bourbon with lots of light baking spice, fried dough, and fruit.
Fun note: these barrels were originally meant for blends. When digging through them, every barrel checked the boxes, and we couldn’t help but move them into the single barrel series to share with you.
VEN
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 8 Years+
Mash bill: 75% Corn / 21% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: Pastel OrangeABOUT
Aged in central KY in between the horse and bbn capitals of the world, these barrels experienced over 8 years of hot humid summers and mild winters. This creates a silky mouthfeel with nice tannins and oak presence without being too dry and oak rich.
Being a sister to the new and already well known KOA series that aged in Bardstown KY on the high floors of a special rickhouse, the VENs aged mid to high floors about 45 minutes away. This shows how location and climate can affect the overall taste and balance
KOA
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 8 Years+
Mash bill: 75% Corn / 21% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: MaroonABOUT
Aged in Bardstown, KY, this run gets plenty of heat and temperature swings, resulting in a high average proof of over 135 per barrel. These KOA barrels spent over 8 years aging in one of the windiest environments in KY, which lends to adding key notes like cinnamon, tobacco, and leather; robust, very big, very tasty.
Add a drop of water to bring out more maple, brown sugar, and vanilla, and increase the texture of the whiskey
K21
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 6 Years, 6 Months+
Mash bill: 70% Corn / 21% Rye / 9% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: Pastel YellowABOUT
Aged in both Western and Central Kentucky, this mash bill utilizes an experimental yeast that adds more floral and citrus notes. These barrels show slight flavor variations, lending a spice-rich profile with subtle fruit and oak.
HIC
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 8 Years+
Mash bill: 60% Corn / 36% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Indiana
Aged in: Indiana
Wax Color: Pastel BlueABOUT
Two different warehouses give a unique profile that adds some tropical notes, as well as punchy oak with light tannins. This high rye mash bill is awesome for those wanting a high rye bourbon that doesn’t have as much bite. Easy drinking, low proof barrels that showcase well-aged bourbon.
TKO
Straight Rye Whiskey
Aged: 8 Years+
Mash bill: 25% Corn / 70% Rye / 5% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Tennessee
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: PinkABOUT
The Kentucky Warehouse, where this rye spent its entire life, is an old, famous warehouse that has housed and produced some of the best whiskey on the market from years past. These barrels are some of the highest proof single barrels we’ve released and TKO drinks more like a BouRye blend.
WTN
Wheated Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 8 Years+
Mash bill: 60% Corn / 22% wheat / 18% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Tennessee
Aged in: Tennessee
Wax Color: PurpleABOUT
WTN is the first wheated release under the single barrel series, and a small lot at that—fewer than 10 barrels were released. Barrel char is very present and adds a lot of depth. Super rich dessert profile—perfect to pair with sweets and baked goods.
HRY
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 6 Years+
Mash bill: 60% Corn / 36% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Indiana
Aged in: Indiana
Wax Color: Royal BlueABOUT
HRY is considered to be the “sister barrels” to the beloved HR7 series. These barrels tend to be very high proof.
KBT
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 10 Years+
Mash bill: 72% Corn / 18% Rye / 10% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: Bright YellowABOUT
KBT is a Kentucky style high rye mash bill. These barrels were aged in central Kentucky for their entire life in traditional style rick houses, which help give it the signature brown sugar and oak notes commonly associated with Kentucky Bourbon. Winner of Double Gold at the 204 San Francisco World Spirits Competition.
KEL
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 8 Years+
Mash bill: 75% Corn / 21% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Indiana
Aged in: Indiana
Wax Color: RedABOUT
Aged in Kelvin Char 4 barrels that give the bourbon a gorgeous color that matches the wax.
NIO
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 6 Years, 9 Months+
Mash bill: 75% Corn / 21% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Indiana
Aged in: Indiana
Wax Color: CreamABOUT
Only a few have been released so far, including the RC Clubhouse “Polebridge Mercantile,” but more are coming.
TASTE
Vanilla, chocolate, stone fruit, slight rye spice, marshmallows, brown sugar, cherry, cinnamon, oak, clove, pecan.
SRY
Straight Rye Whiskey
Aged: 6 Years, 3 months+
Mash bill: 45% Corn / 51% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Indiana
Aged in: Indiana
Wax Color: Dark GreenABOUT
What’s known as “barely legal rye” since it only contains the minimum legal requirement to be considered rye. SRY barrels are perfect for those coming from other spirits, such as malt, to venture into because of the light fruit and earthy notes; but also, perfect for bourbon drinkers who’ve yet to take the plunge into the rye realm.
TNR
Tennessee Straight Rye Whiskey
Aged: 5 Years, 8 months+
Mash bill: 95% Rye / 5% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Tennessee
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: Kelley GreenABOUT
One of the original Rare Character Single Barrel Series barrel classes. Distilled in an 1800s distillery, then moved to Western Kentucky to age in a brick warehouse. Very unusual 95/5—has a beautiful, very pronounced honey note and almost imitates a French Brandy or Petit Champagne Cognac at certain points.
“Great for rum or brandy drinkers, almost like a grain scotch whiskey had a baby with a 95/5 rye” —Pablo Moix
RHY
Straight Rye Whiskey
Aged: 4 Years, 2 months+
Mash bill: 45% Corn / 51% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Indiana
Aged in: Indiana
Wax Color: Dark GreenABOUT
Not a traditional Indiana rye mash bill, more “Kentucky Style.” Only 6 barrels were ever released.
“Very sweet and spicy.” -Pablo Moix
K13
Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 6 Years, 8 months+
Mash bill: 78% Corn / 13% Rye / 9% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Kentucky
Aged in: Kentucky
Wax Color: Pastel YellowABOUT
This limited run of barrels is a mash bill different than what’s typically distilled by its distillery. Utilizing an experimental mash bill and yeast strain, there are just over two dozen of these barrels produced and released by Rare Character Whiskey Co. under the Single Barrel Series lineup. Fun note: The K21 are a different mash bill, but utilize the same yeast as K13.
HR7
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 7 Years, 6 months+
Mash bill: 60% Corn / 36% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Indiana
Aged in: Indiana
Wax Color: OrangeABOUT
Some of the highest proof single barrels Rare Character had released at the time, with many HR7’s clocking in at over 120 proof.
“Possibly the very best MGP whiskey we’ve sourced” —Pablo Moix
TASTE
Honey, baked bread, vanilla, cinnamon, fresh fruit, black pepper, clove, charred oak, apple, mint, cocoa.
IRT
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 5 Years+
Mash bill: 60% Corn / 36% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Indiana
Aged in: Tennessee
Wax Color: RedABOUT
Coming from a small warehouse, “more modest” to this whiskey’s benefit, as a result of the warehouse size, great airflow allowed the whiskey to mature and skew away from what you’d expect. IRT barrels are a high rye and much drier than a typical bourbon. We recommend you taste alongside Four Roses Small Batch Select or E.H. Taylor Single Barrel.
“Just a really good high rye bourbon.” —Pablo Moix
TASTE
Heavy caramel, vanilla, chocolate, cocoa, roasted nuts, rye spice.
RIO-200s
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 6 Years, 7 months+
Mash bill: 75% Corn / 21% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Indiana
Aged in: kentucky
Wax Color: maroonABOUT
An absolute crowd favorite, the RIO-200’s were aged in a stone warehouse in Kentucky built in 1887. The aging process on this particular group of barrels brought out a lot of spice; it’s a heavy and complex whiskey beyond just being sweet. Pablo says this is the most complex 21% rye mash bill he’s ever had in his life. Low tone spice, very dynamic, very “it’s own “ because of its warehouse.
TASTE
Notes of apricot pit vs the flesh (pure pits). Compare to and drink alongside Old Forester 1920.
I95
Straight Rye Whiskey
Aged: 5 Years+
Mash bill: 95% Rye / 5% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Indiana
Aged in: Indiana
Wax Color: Forest GreenABOUT
I95 is a traditional “Indiana Style” rye that leans into much more tropical notes than most 95/5 ryes with a bold, lingering rye spice. Pablo bought this whole lot of barrels because it was “highly unusual” with a very unique profile. Only seven I95 barrels have ever been released.
TASTE
Spearmint, dill, rye spice, pineapple, mango, papaya, banana, caramel, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, and floral notes.
I21
Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged: 4 Years, 9 months+
Mash bill: 75% Corn / 21% Rye / 4% Malted Barley
Distilled in: Indiana
Aged in: Indiana
Wax Color: Navy BlueABOUT
I21 is a “rye bourbon” with additional finishing aging done in Kentucky.
“Pretty sweetness to it, but the sweet fruits taste charred” —Pablo Moix
TASTE
Caramel, vanilla, fruit, dried fruit, slightly candied, slight spice, cream, light rye spice in the finish.
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