For the third straight year, Koopers Whiskey is pushing the finishing envelope by releasing its annual Cognac-finished rye whiskey. Distilled and aged in Indiana and finished in French barrels, it’s the perfect combination of new and old world distilling.
Koopers Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in Cognac Casks
Featuring a mash bill of 45% corn, 51% rye, and 4% barley, this whiskey was distilled in Indiana, matured seven years in new charred American oak, then finished eleven weeks in French cognac casks in Texas.
According to the brand, the 96-proof expression is memorable and balanced. It opens with aromas of sticky toffee pudding, candy apples, and pipe tobacco. The palate highlights peppery rye, spiced vanilla, and brown sugar, ending with a long, warm finish of caramelized fruit, oak, and cracked black pepper.
“With this Cognac finished release, we are building contrast and balance by adding a second, elegant voice to a premium whiskey,” Koopers Whiskey master blender, Troy Kooper, says.
“The spice of the rye speaks first, then a soft, fruit-laced warmth from the French Oak, and the kiss of Cognac character finishes the sentence. It’s a conversation between traditions, bridging American whiskey with Old World influence. Rye has always had a confident edge. The finishing brings layered, expressive, refinement without losing backbone.”
Where can I buy it?
Only 225 bottles of this limited-edition expression will be made available beginning on April 11 at 11 am at the Koopers Whiskey Texas Tasting Room in Ledbetter, Texas, for the suggested retail price of $80.
