WhistlePig whiskey is distilled by a team of passionate and innovative individuals led by the legendary Dave Pickerell. Pickerell, often referred to as the “Johnny Appleseed of American Whiskey,” was a master distiller with over 25 years of experience in the industry. He was responsible for reviving the iconic Maker's Mark brand and played a crucial role in the success of many other well-known distilleries.
After working with various distilleries and helping them establish their own whiskey identities, Pickerell decided to create his own dream playground for experimental whiskey. This led to the creation of WhistlePig Farm in Shoreham, Vermont. The farm, with its rolling hills and fertile soil, provided the perfect backdrop for Pickerell and his team to push the boundaries of whiskey production.
At WhistlePig, Pickerell oversaw every step of the whiskey-making process, from the selection of grains to the aging and bottling of the final product. He was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his relentless pursuit of perfection. Pickerell believed that whiskey should reflect the terroir in which it was produced, and he worked tirelessly to achieve this goal.
Sadly, Dave Pickerell passed away in November 2018, leaving behind a legacy of exceptional whiskey and a team of talented individuals who were eager to carry on his vision. Today, the WhistlePig team, which includes master blenders, distillers, and other whiskey enthusiasts, continues to honor Pickerell's legacy by producing some of the finest rye whiskey in the world.
The WhistlePig team is known for their restless and rebellious nature. They are constantly pushing the boundaries of traditional whiskey-making, experimenting with different aging techniques, barrel finishes, and grain blends. This commitment to innovation has resulted in a wide range of unique and exciting expressions, each with its own distinct flavor profile.
One of the key aspects of the WhistlePig distillation process is their use of 100% rye grain. Rye is known for its spicy and robust character, and it forms the backbone of WhistlePig's whiskey. The team at WhistlePig carefully selects the rye grains, ensuring that only the highest quality ingredients are used in the production of their whiskey.
Another important factor in the distillation process is the aging of the whiskey. WhistlePig whiskey is aged in a combination of new American oak barrels and used bourbon barrels, which impart rich flavors and complexity to the spirit. The team also experiments with different barrel finishes, such as port, Madeira, and Sauternes, to create unique and flavorful expressions.
In addition to their traditional whiskey offerings, WhistlePig also produces a range of limited edition and experimental releases. These expressions often push the boundaries of what is considered traditional whiskey, incorporating innovative aging techniques, unique grain blends, and unconventional barrel finishes. These limited releases are highly sought after by whiskey enthusiasts and collectors alike.
WhistlePig whiskey is distilled by a team of passionate and innovative individuals who are dedicated to pushing the boundaries of traditional whiskey-making. Led by the late Dave Pickerell, the team at WhistlePig continues to honor his legacy by producing exceptional rye whiskey that showcases the unique terroir of Vermont. Their restless and rebellious nature drives them to constantly experiment and innovate, resulting in a wide range of unique and exciting expressions. Whether it's their traditional offerings or their limited edition releases, WhistlePig whiskey is a testament to the skill and creativity of its distillers.