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Oaklore Distilling is launching a rye whiskey matured in port wine barrels

By Christopher Osburn Jun 8, 2025 6:25 PM

Oaklore

North Carolina-based Oaklore Distilling Co. recently announced the launch of a new, limited-edition whiskey that fans of unique barrel-aging won’t want to miss. The latest addition to its Oaklore Story Series, Port Cask Finish Rye Whiskey is a 92-proof rye whiskey finished in barrels that previously held port wine.

Oaklore Port Cask Finish Rye Whiskey

Oaklore

This memorable whiskey begins with a mash bill of 70% rye, 20% corn, and 10% malted barley (it’s the same as the brand’s signature 6-year-old straight rye whiskey). It’s first matured for six years in a combination of char #2 and char #3 new, white oak barrels. It’s then transferred to ex-port wine barrels for another twelve to eighteen months of finishing.

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According to the brand, the result is a sublime, sippable, non-chill-filtered, small-batch whiskey that begins with a nose of rye spice, dark cherries, and brown sugar. The palate is a mix of flavors, including “sweet, fermented fruit,” baking spices, raisins, herbs, and white pepper.

“Our Story Series whiskeys are meticulously crafted in small batches and designed to showcase a range of styles – whether that’s a cask strength release, or a spirit finished to perfection like our latest Port Cask Finish Rye. However, the one thing they all have in common is a rigorous taste-testing process among the Oaklore team to ensure that every whiskey in the Story Series reflects the quality, flavor, craftsmanship, and patience needed to make an exceptional aged spirit,” Oaklore Co-Founders Thomas Bogan, says.

Where can I buy it?

Whiskey in a glass — Haris Calkic / iStock

Available in limited quantities at the distillery, this award-winning limited release is also available online at Oaklore’s website and its Charlotte-based tasting room for the suggested retail price of $99.99 for a 750ml bottle.

Christopher Osburn is a food and drinks writer located in the Finger Lakes Region of New York. He’s been writing professional Read Full Bio

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