WhistlePig 10-Year Small Batch Rye Whiskey Review

Distillery: Canadian Whiskey; Bottled by WhistlePig Whiskey Co.—Shoreham, Vermont

Proof: 100.0 (50.0% ABV)

Age: Ten Years

Mashbill: Not disclosed—High Rye Whiskey

MSRP: $90

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Who They Are

Blended bourbons are becoming another part of the saturated whiskey marketplace.  WhistlePig will undoubtedly be among the top contenders on many rye enthusiast’s top rye list. WhistlePig fans seem to be are diehard in their love for the brand.  And who can blame them for loving a heavily awarded brand?

This 10-year-old expression is a high rye Canadian whiskey. Distilled in a combination of stills, it is aged for a decade before making its way to WhistlePig’s Vermont farm, where it is blended and bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV).

Over the years, WhistlePig has staked a claim for experimenting with unique cask finishes and higher-age statements. Yet, their 10-Year Small Batch Rye remains the foundation of their lineup—a bold, spice-laden whiskey that showcases rye grain.

WhistlePig 10-Year Small Batch Rye Whiskey Review: Tasting Notes

Full disclosure:  while my bourbon experience runs deep, my Irish whiskey exploration is in development.  So, I’m approaching this expression primarily through a bourbon lens.

Nose – 4.25/5

Unmistakably rye-forward. There’s an initial burst of bright fresh mint and clove, closely followed by notes of vanilla, caramel, and the citrusy aroma of orange peel. Slight evergreen and pine rise from down deep evoking an outdoorsy freshness.

Palate – 4.25/5

Right out of the gate, the rye spice hits hard delivering bold black pepper and cinnamon but is moderated quickly by the sweet spice of black licorice.  An oily richness coats the tongue, providing for a touch of toffee and dark chocolate that wonderfully balances the initial heat.

Finish – 3.5/5

Long, layered and dry.  The Finish lingers with a strong rye spice, and a hit of cola and some sweet oak.  A slight bitterness develops on the back end.  As the flavors begin to slide out there is a completely unexpected note of cocoa.

Value – 4/5

At $90, WhistlePig 10-Year Small Batch Rye sits firmly in a premium price range near a lot of competing brands. Its 100% rye mash bill and decade-long aging helps justify the premium price point for those who love bold, spice-driven whiskey.

WhistlePig 10-Year Small Batch Rye Whiskey Review: The Verdict

WhistlePig 10-Year Small Batch Rye is a classic and unapologetic rye whiskey. Bold spice and a rich herbal character with a significant influence from the long oak aging makes it an excellent choice for rye enthusiasts. The influence of Canadian distillation and Vermont blending has created a whiskey that is both powerful and refined.

While its dry finish and premium price tag may not appeal to everyone, those who enjoy rye-heavy, spice-dominant pours will find this bottle to be a rewarding sipper.

Verdict – 4/5

We score each bourbon based on nose, palate, finish, and value.

Scoring System:

• Platinum – 4.5 – 5
• Gold – 4 – 4.5
• Silver – 3 – 4
• Bronze – <3