While Kentucky, Tennessee, and even Indiana have long been known for their top-notch brown liquors, a new crop of U.S. states are now producing bottles worthy of discussion. Case in point: Old Elk Distillery in Fort Collins, CO. Along with a strong core lineup, the distillery has added a new bottle to its Cask Finish Series: Straight Wheat Whiskey finished in French Limousin oak cognac barrels.
Old Elk Cognac Cask Finish Straight Wheat Whiskey—made from a blend of 95 percent soft red winter wheat and five percent malted barley—is matured for six years, then aged for another six months to one year in French Limousin oak barrels. The nose presents rich aromas of apricot, sandalwood, caramel, and candied orange. The palate presents aromas of honeycomb, orange blossom, and caramel, leading to a long, rich finish.
“We’ve had great success with our previous Cask Finish Series products, so it made sense to create another unique bottling, this time using our Straight Wheat Whiskey,” says Old Elk CEO Luis Gonzalez.
Old Elk Cognac Cask Finish Straight Wheat Whiskey is now available at retailers across the U.S. with a suggested retail price of $90 for a 750ml bottle.
To be considered a straight wheat whiskey, the liquid must have a mash bill of at least 51% wheat and must be aged in new charred oak barrels for at least two years. Over the last decade, wheated whiskeys in general have gained a strong reputation. This is thanks in part to bourbons that include wheat in their mash bills, such as Old Fitzerald, W.L. Weller, and Pappy Van Winkle. The grain adds a smooth, mild sweetness that is distinct from the corn, rye, and malted barley.
Related: The Best Wheated Bourbons to Buy When You Can't Find Pappy