Orphan Barrel is not a distillery itself, but rather a brand that sources and bottles limited edition whiskies from various distilleries. They search for forgotten barrels of whiskey that have been aging for an extended period, often in the range of 15 to 25 years. These barrels are discovered in different rickhouses across the country, where they have been overlooked or simply lost in the shuffle.
The team at Orphan Barrel carefully selects and samples these barrels to ensure they meet their standards of quality and uniqueness. Once chosen, the barrels are then bottled under the Orphan Barrel label as a standalone release. Each release is accompanied by detailed information about the whiskey, including its age, provenance, and tasting notes.
By rescuing these forgotten barrels and giving them a new lease on life, Orphan Barrel allows whiskey enthusiasts to experience flavors and aromas that may have otherwise been lost to time. The aging process imparts unique characteristics to the whiskey, resulting in complex and nuanced profiles that are highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the privilege of tasting several releases from Orphan Barrel, including the Rhetoric series. Each bottle offers a journey through time, with flavors that have developed and matured over decades. The craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into each release is evident in every sip.