Just in time to help get cozy this season, Seattle-based Copperworks Distilling Co. is introducing its latest special release: Copperworks Barleywine Cask American Single Malt Whiskey.
“Our latest special whiskey release is our first collaboration with Seattle’s Urban Family Brewing Co.,” said Copperworks Distilling co-founder, co-owner and president Jason Parker. “This seven-year-old American Single Malt Whiskey was finished in a cask that previously held Copperworks American Single Malt Whiskey and Urban Family’s Treehouse in the City Barleywine.”
What is Barleywine?
Contrary to its name, barleywine is not wine at all. Rather, it is a style of beer (more specifically, a strong ale) that was popularized in England centuries ago. Barleywine often has prominent malty characteristics and is known for its relatively high alcohol content. Barleywines often range from an ABV of 8-13% (occasionally even greater than 13%), an alcohol content more akin to a wine, hence the name. Styles of barleywine do vary, but generally this strong, flavorful ale is an especially suitable candidate for aging.
Copperworks Barleywine Cask American Single Malt Whiskey
232 bottles produced (750ml)
50% ABV (100 Proof)
$89.99 (+ tax and shipping)
Production Notes
A single cask release, this whiskey was crafted from the distillery’s Five Malt recipe and began its journey in Cask No. 023-2, a refilled Copperworks American Single Malt Whiskey cask, where it matured for just over seven years. Meanwhile, the distillery had given one of its used whiskey casks to Urban Family Brewing in Seattle. Urban Family Brewing finished a 13.5% barleywine for seven months in the cask, then returned the cask to Copperworks. The seven-year-old whiskey from Cask No. 023-2 was then transferred to the barleywine cask to finish for an additional 25 days.
Tasting Notes
Coruscating wheat in the glass, you’ll also note the slowly forming legs. Dried mango, candy orange slices, eucalyptus, and sweet cinnamon on the nose are only the beginning of this rollercoaster of a dram. The palate is raucous with citrus candy, malted milk balls, chocolate drizzled grilled pineapple, and an earthy florality. The finish highlights the barleywine cask with accompanying light tannins and notes of honeysuckle, cocoa, and a hint of hops. This whiskey is quite fun neat, or a nice surprise mixed with some amaretto in a Godfather cocktail.
“This is a first for Copperworks in several ways. We’re no stranger to unique cask finishes – in the past, we’ve finished our whiskey in casks that previously held tequila, amaro, rum, sherry, wine, beer, and more—but this marks the very first barleywine cask finish,” said Copperworks Distilling Co. Co-Owner and Vice President Jeff Kanof. “We’re always thrilled when we can collaborate with local craft brewers, such as Urban Family Brewing Co.”
To Purchase
To purchase online:
To purchase in person:
Copperworks – Seattle Distillery & Tasting Room at 1250 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101.
Copperworks – Kenmore, located at 7324 NE 175th St, Kenmore WA, 98028.