After a decade-long journey of discovery, Montpelier, Vermont-based Caledonia Spirits, creators of the award-winning Barr Hill Gin, proudly introduces Phyllis Whiskey—a true Vermont rye whiskey. The launch of the first ‘Phyllis & Her Walk in the Woods’ experimental collection marks the distillery’s venture into whiskey production, building on its award-winning reputation for exceptional gin.
Phyllis Rye Whiskey embodies Caledonia Spirits’ commitment to craftsmanship, environmental stewardship, and transparent production methods. Unlike many in the industry, every drop of Phyllis Rye Whiskey is made using 100% Vermont-grown organic grains, reflecting the company’s “Landcrafted” mission to reconnect cocktail culture to agriculture.
‘Phyllis & Her Walk in the Woods’ is a collection of distinctly Vermont rye whiskeys harmonizing the flavors and terroir of local agriculture with cask finishes from around the world. This 2024 collection will offer four releases: Double Oaked, Port Cask, Tokaji, and PX Sherry – all bold, intense, and uniquely Vermont in character. A 2025 collection is also in the works.
The first two expressions in the collection include:
- Phyllis & Her Walk in the Woods: Double Oaked Rye Whiskey A blend of some of Caledonia Spirits’ oldest, most complex rye whiskey with some of its favorite newer barrels, finished in used Moscatel wine and ex-Rye barrels to create a complex and well-balanced rye whiskey. Tasting Notes: Abundant Vermont rye spice and fruity top notes, with warm pastry and spiced cookie aromas. 84% Vermont Rye | 16% Vermont Barley | 100 Proof / 50% ABV
- Phyllis & Her Walk in the Woods: Port Cask Finished An adventurous iteration of Phyllis Whiskey finished for nine months in a Port wine barrel. Gritty rye spice melds beautifully with the jammy, dark fruit wine notes. Tasting Notes: Bold rye spice with layers of black cherry, fig jam, and dark caramel aromas. 84% Vermont Rye | 16% Vermont Barley | 100 Proof / 50% ABV
This experimental spirit extends beyond flavor profiles to an intentional focus on regenerative agriculture, soil health, environmental impact, and local grains — Phyllis Whiskey is crafted using winter rye, aptly named for its hardy nature and ability to grow through Vermont’s cold, snowy winters. This rye also enriches and builds soil, reduces runoff and erosion, sequesters nitrogen, improves water infiltration, and increases organic matter.
“When we decided to make rye whiskey, every aspect of the craft was considered. From how the trees are selectively harvested to make the barrels, how the grains are grown and their impact on soil health, to the malting, milling, fermenting and finally, the distilling,” said Ryan Christiansen, president and head distiller. “The status quo is depleting our lands of nutrition, polluting our rivers and streams, while selling whiskey that largely comes from the same factories. We’re proud to make whiskey the way we want to drink whiskey – patiently.”
The name “Phyllis” honors Christiansen’s grandmother and is also the name of the still on which the whiskey is produced. This personal touch reflects the distillery’s dedication to family, tradition, and Vermont’s rich agricultural heritage, while the experimental nature of the whiskey line showcases their forward-thinking approach.
Caledonia Spirits invites spirits enthusiasts to visit their distillery at Gin Lane in Montpelier, Vermont. Here, visitors can experience firsthand the distilling process, sample unique expressions, and enjoy craft cocktails and local cuisine at a James Beard Award-nominated bar, as well as learning and shopping opportunities, all while immersing themselves in Vermont’s natural beauty.
Phyllis Rye Whiskey is available online and at the distillery’s on-site shop. For more information about Phyllis Whiskey and future experimental releases, please visit phylliswhiskey.com, or follow @phylliswhiskey on Instagram.