High West Campfire is a unique and collaborative whiskey that brings together the best of American and Scottish spirits. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of experiencing this exceptional blend firsthand, and I must say, it is truly one-of-a-kind.
The concept behind High West Campfire is to combine the flavors and characteristics of straight bourbon, straight rye, and peaty Scottish single malt. This combination creates a whiskey that is both complex and harmonious, with each component bringing its own distinct qualities to the blend.
Let's start by exploring the straight bourbon component of Campfire. Bourbon is a type of American whiskey that is legally required to be made from a mashbill containing at least 51% corn. In the case of Campfire, the bourbon used has a high corn content, which contributes to its sweet and rich flavor profile. This sweetness is complemented by notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, creating a smooth and velvety texture on the palate.
Moving on to the straight rye component of Campfire, rye whiskey is known for its spicy and robust character. The rye used in this blend has a high rye mashbill, which intensifies its peppery and herbal qualities. The rye adds a delightful kick to the whiskey, with flavors of black pepper, cinnamon, and cloves intermingling with the sweetness of the bourbon.
Now, let's talk about the peaty Scottish single malt that completes the Campfire blend. Peat is a traditional fuel source used in the malting process of certain Scottish whiskies, and it imparts a distinctive smoky flavor to the spirit. In Campfire, the peaty single malt adds a captivating layer of smokiness, reminiscent of a bonfire on a crisp autumn night. The earthy and slightly medicinal notes from the peat create a fascinating contrast to the sweetness of the bourbon and the spice of the rye.
When all these components come together in High West Campfire, the result is a truly remarkable whiskey that showcases the best of both American and Scottish traditions. The sweet corn, floral rye, and smoky Scotch harmonize beautifully, creating a complex and well-balanced flavor profile that is sure to delight whiskey enthusiasts.
In my personal experience, I found that the combination of flavors in High West Campfire was truly exceptional. The initial notes of sweet corn and caramel from the bourbon were immediately followed by a wave of peppery spice from the rye. Just as I thought the journey was complete, the smoky and peaty character of the Scottish single malt emerged, adding depth and complexity to the whiskey. The finish was long and satisfying, with the flavors lingering on the palate, inviting me to take another sip.
High West Campfire is a unique and collaborative whiskey that brings together the best of American bourbon, rye, and Scottish single malt. The combination of sweet corn, floral rye, and smoky Scotch creates a truly remarkable flavor profile that is both complex and harmonious. Whether you are a fan of bourbon, rye, or Scotch, Campfire offers a delightful blend that is sure to please even the most discerning whiskey connoisseur.