Castle & Key Cask Finish Series French Blanc Pineau des Charentes Cask Rye Experimental Edition

Step into the realm of bold creativity with the Castle & Key Cask Finish Series French Blanc Pineau des Charentes Cask Rye – Experimental Edition. This limited-release rye whiskey is a part of Castle & Key's revered Experimental Series, showcasing innovation, craftsmanship, and a fearless pursuit of flavor exploration.

Crafted on the historic grounds of the Old Taylor Distillery, this spirit honors tradition while embracing experimental finishes. Finished for 18 months in French Blanc Pineau des Charentes casks, this rare expression enhances the spicy rye backbone with delicate, fruit-forward French sweetness and a soft vinous complexity.

Bottled at a commanding 57.95% ABV (115.9 Proof) and non-chill filtered, this rye stands as a cask-strength celebration of boundary-breaking whiskey making.

Key Features:

• French Cask Finish – Aged in French Blanc Pineau des Charentes casks for 18 months

• Mash Bill – 63% Rye, 17% Corn, 20% Malted Barley

• Cask Strength – 57.95% ABV (115.9 Proof)

• Edition – Limited Experimental Series, 2025 Blend

• Batch Size – Only 2 barrels used

• No Artificial Flavoring Agents

• Volume – 750ml

• Locally Sourced Corn – From Walnut Grove Farms, Kentucky

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Aromas of white peach, green apple, and light vanilla florals, with subtle herbal undertones

• Palate: A bright and lively blend of stone fruit, honeyed grain, and spiced oak, layered with the unmistakable influence of Pineau des Charentes

• Finish: Long, clean, and warming with lingering notes of white wine, light tannin, and baking spice

How to Enjoy:

• Best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water to unlock its fruity depth and cask influence

• A conversation-starting pour for advanced rye drinkers and lovers of wine-cask-finished spirits

• Great for collectors and enthusiasts seeking one-of-a-kind small-batch releases

FAQ:

Q: What is Pineau des Charentes and how does it impact the flavor?
A: Pineau des Charentes is a French fortified wine made by blending fresh grape juice with Cognac. Its casks add rich grapey sweetness, floral notes, and a gentle wine-like complexity to the rye.

Q: Is this part of Castle & Key’s regular lineup?
A: No, this is part of the Experimental Series, a limited-release program focused on small-batch, boundary-pushing whiskey.

Q: How many bottles were made?
A: Only two barrels were used for this batch, making it a truly limited edition.