Copperworks Distilling Co. of Seattle has announced two special single cask releases coming soon: Copperworks Color Cask and Copperworks Whidbey’s Port Cask.
Copperworks Color Cask American Single Malt Whiskey
This American Single Malt Whiskey was matured in a 200-year-old color cask: the rare and special result of a fading practice in the world of sherry production.
Spanish Sherry wineries used to produce a very dark sherry to color Oloroso sherry when it didn’t look dark enough to meet the maker’s expectations. Over time, the culture of the sherry industry has changed, and people have become less concerned with the actual color of the product, caring more about the authenticity of the process, and resulting wine.
Following a trip to Spain and Portugal by Copperworks Distilling Co. President and co-founder Jason Parker in 2019, the distillery was able to acquire one of six centuries-old Spanish casks from Bodegas Argüeso winery of Cádiz, Spain.
“Knowing how special these casks were, we decided not to finish a whiskey in the cask but instead do a full maturation,” said Parker. “The whiskey was matured for just under five years, resulting in a rich and intense whiskey unlike any we’ve ever tasted.”
The whiskey from this special cask is called a “Queen’s Run,” a term borrowed from the rum industry that means it is distilled entirely from the heads and tails from previous distillations.
“Queens Runs are known for producing highly flavorful distillates, fitting for this rare and special cask,” shared Copperworks Distilling Co. vice president and co-owner Jeff Kanof.
Tasting Notes:
Even more striking than the deep, dark appearance of this whiskey in the glass is the tasting experience itself. From the nose to the palate and all the way through the marathon-length finish, it delivers a bold and unforgettable journey. Aromas of burnt marshmallow, molasses, raw cookie dough, and dark chocolate-covered figs leap from the glass. On the palate you’ll find fig jam, dark chocolate, browned butter, and raisins, accented by a subtle touch of leather. The finish is long and complex, offering notes of dark chocolate-covered figs, lemongrass, and kefir lime, with a dry, nutty quality reminiscent of black walnut and pecans.
Details
Limited release
50% ABV (100 Proof)
$149.99 (+ tax and shipping)
Copperworks Whidbey’s Port Cask American Single Malt Whiskey
The Whidbey’s Port Cask American Single Malt Whiskey is distilled from Copperworks’ Five Malt recipe, matured for just under 7 years in a refilled American Single Malt Whiskey cask, and finished for another 7 months in a cask previously used to mature the local port-style wine Whidbey’s Port. Whidbey’s Port is produced in Prosser and Grandview, WA. It has been a Washington staple since it was first released in 1984.
“After tasting this locally crafted port-style wine, we knew it would be perfect to finish our whiskey in one of its casks,” said Kanof.
Tasting Notes:
Opens with delicate floral notes, cedar, orange oil, raspberry thumbprint cookies, and a hint of cardamom on the nose. The Port influence is evident yet subtle, allowing the spirit’s character to shine through. On the palate, orange marmalade, cinnamon, sarsaparilla, white pepper, and brioche come together in harmonious balance. The finish lingers gracefully, offering more marmalade and cinnamon alongside layers of applewood, eucalyptus, and dark cocoa.
Details
Limited release
50% ABV (100 Proof)
$89.99 (plus taxes and shipping)
PRE-ORDER FOR FIRST CUT MEMBERS
First Cut members can enjoy special early access to pre-order these unique and exciting whiskeys starting November 22, 2024.
First Cut Membership is available to purchase here!
PRE-ORDERS FOR THE PUBLIC
The public can pre-order on November 29, 2024 at 11 am PT.
Click here for more details and to register for a reminder email.
COPPERWORKS TASTING ROOMS
These two special cask releases will also be available to purchase at Copperworks Tasting Rooms.
Copperworks Seattle Distillery & Tasting Room ~ 1250 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98101.
Copperworks Kenmore ~ 7324 NE 175th St, Kenmore WA, 98028.