Impartial bottlers typically highlight single casks of world whiskies, with American whiskey remaining a uncommon and coveted gem. Barrel International invitations whiskey fans on a journey of its personal with MaltyVerse — a novel fusion of limited-edition whiskies, immersive storytelling, and hanging comedian artwork by illustrator Carl Harrison.
Set 100 years sooner or later, the MaltyVerse unfolds in a world the place whiskey has develop into a scarce and treasured commodity. Enter the villains, the Drooms, led by the crafty Mr. Neat, who’re continuously scheming to grab these valuable bottles. Opposing them is the relentless Company of Barrel Vigilance (ABV), devoted to defending each drop of this liquid gold.
Whereas MaltyVerse is certain to captivate comedian lovers with its wealthy narrative and paintings, it additionally stands out as a compelling alternative for whiskey aficionados who merely search top-quality single casks — even with out the comedian connection. So, why are the Drooms and Mr. Neat so decided to assert these bottles? Let’s dive in and uncover the story behind the spirit.
A Wreck inn Kentucky: MaltyVerse x Inexperienced River Bourbon Evaluation
A Wreck in Kentucky was distilled at Inexperienced River Distilling earlier than Jacob Name left Owensboro to discovered Western Kentucky Distilling simply 40 miles away in Beaver Dam, Kentucky. Whereas bourbon fans are properly acquainted with Inexperienced River’s core choices, cask #31020233 stands aside from the standard expressions broadly out there throughout america.
Past the flagship mashbill, Jacob Name crafted a number of mashbills—together with one with 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley. Though this specific mashbill is usually linked to MGP, this bourbon is authentically Owensboro via and thru. Distilled in 2018 and aged for no less than six years, it matured in a barrel sourced from Impartial Stave Firm, primarily resting on the bottom ground of a small rickhouse at Bluegrass Bottlers. Bottled in 2024 at 96 proof, this single barrel launch yielded simply 159 bottles—making it an fascinating discover for fans who wish to discover extra of what Owensboro gives.
The nostril opens with a particular aroma harking back to Bananas Foster, quickly shifting to dried apricot and rum raisin ice cream. These scents put together you for a bourbon that guarantees a pronounced sweetness.
On the palate, peach ice cream stands out as the first taste. After the preliminary burst, vanilla steps ahead and is joined by the spicy notes of cloves and white pepper, making a balanced distinction. The mouthfeel carries a medium thickness, offering a satisfying texture. The end reveals flavors of candied ginger, spicy cardamom, and peach cobbler, with the peach notice right here being extra restrained and fewer candy than the primary impression.
A Wreck in Kentucky is a enjoyable and flavorful bourbon from Owensboro, particularly interesting to those that take pleasure in sweeter profiles. It’s a bottle I’d be glad to have in my assortment. Nonetheless, the urged worth of $100 for a 700ml bottle feels a bit excessive. For these looking for comparable qualities at a greater worth, Silk Velvet Whiskey gives the identical mashbill distilled at Inexperienced River and a comparable age, however is bottled at a better proof of 107 and priced round $80 for 750ml.
If the comedian storytelling provides to the expertise for you, this bottle will ship. However for those who’re centered purely on worth and taste, MaltyVerse’s A Wreck in Kentucky is excellent, although I’d critically contemplate Silk Velvet Whiskey as a substitute. 96 proof. B+ / $100
No Strain Whiskey: MaltyVerse x MB Roland Distillery Evaluation
No Strain Whiskey is distilled by MB Roland, situated in Pembroke, Kentucky. As soon as an Amish dairy farm, MB Roland now stands as a proud cease on the State Line Whiskey Tour, which spans western Kentucky and Tennessee.
The mashbill options 78% white corn, 17% rye, and 5% malted barley. After fermenting for 3 to 4 days, the mash is twice distilled on a Trident Nonetheless manufactured in Etna, Maine. The distillation begins with the pot nonetheless producing spirit at 155 proof, slicing to tails at 115 proof, leading to a white canine at a strong 145 proof. Distillate is then aged in #4 char barrels provided by Kelvin Cooperate, getting into the barrels at 110 proof. After greater than 5 years of maturation, the bourbon is bottled at 96 proof, yielding a restricted run of simply 218 bottles.
The bouquet opens with salted peanuts and the candy, crunchy scent of Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes cereal. Quickly, notes of sentimental leather-based present construction, accompanied by aromas of Karo syrup and stewed black cherries. On the palate, flavors of cherry cordial and toffee come ahead. Salted peanuts seem once more, whereas the darkish fruit shifts to a jammy blackberry character. The end options the heat of German-roasted pecans, milk chocolate, and lingering cherry preserves.
This bourbon gives spectacular stability from begin to end, with nutty and darkish fruit notes mixing seamlessly. At a urged worth of $80 for a 700ml bottle, No Strain Whiskey presents a stronger worth, particularly in comparison with A Wreck in Kentucky. Whether or not or not you’re within the comedian facet, this one is a stable buy that’s unlikely to disappoint. 96 proof. A- / $80
No Strain Whiskey: MaltyVerse x MB Roland Distillery
USD80
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