One factor that contributes to the higher cost of Angel's Envy rye is the unique production process that is used. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can attest to the fact that this whiskey is made in small batches, which requires a great deal of time and attention to detail. The production process for Angel's Envy involves finishing the whiskey in port wine barrels, which adds complexity and depth to the final product. This finishing process is not commonly found in other rye whiskeys, and it requires additional resources and expertise.
The decision to use port wine barrels for finishing the whiskey is a deliberate choice made by the distillers at Angel's Envy. These barrels are sourced from Portugal and are known for their unique flavor profile. The whiskey is aged in traditional American oak barrels initially, but it is then transferred to the port wine barrels for a period of time to undergo the finishing process. This imparts additional flavors and aromas to the whiskey, resulting in a more complex and nuanced final product.
The use of port wine barrels for finishing is not a simple or inexpensive process. These barrels must be carefully selected and prepared before they can be used. They must be thoroughly cleaned and inspected to ensure that they are free from any impurities that could affect the flavor of the whiskey. The barrels must also be properly seasoned to ensure that they are ready to impart the desired flavors to the whiskey. All of these steps require time, resources, and expertise, which contribute to the higher cost of the whiskey.
Furthermore, the finishing process itself is a time-consuming endeavor. The whiskey must be carefully monitored and tasted throughout the finishing period to ensure that it is developing the desired flavors and characteristics. This requires a great deal of skill and attention to detail, as even minor variations in temperature or time can have a significant impact on the final product. The distillers at Angel's Envy are dedicated to creating a high-quality whiskey, and they are willing to invest the necessary time and resources to achieve this goal.
In addition to the unique production process, Angel's Envy Rye is also made from high-quality ingredients. The distillery uses a combination of malted barley, corn, and rye in their mash bill, which contributes to the rich and complex flavor profile of the whiskey. These ingredients are carefully selected and sourced, and they undergo rigorous quality control measures to ensure that only the best grains are used in the production process.
The small-batch nature of Angel's Envy Rye also contributes to its higher cost. Producing whiskey in small batches allows for greater control over the quality and consistency of the final product. It also allows the distillers to focus on the details and intricacies of the production process, resulting in a whiskey that is truly unique and special. However, producing whiskey in small batches requires more time and resources, which can drive up the cost of the final product.
The higher cost of Angel's Envy Rye can be attributed to a combination of factors. The unique production process, which involves finishing the whiskey in port wine barrels, requires a significant investment of time, resources, and expertise. The high-quality ingredients and small-batch production further contribute to the cost. However, these factors also contribute to the exceptional quality and complexity of the whiskey, making it a worthwhile investment for whiskey enthusiasts.