Rare Character Exceptional Series Kentucky Malt Whiskey 2011 S3B7

The Exceptional Series from Rare Character exemplifies the driving mission of their brand: to release the most distinguished and highest quality whiskeys they can possibly source. While Rare Character's Single Barrel Series is focused on customization and creativity, this new series is focused on curation and exceptional craftsmanship.

These spirits are unique; they're even older and scarcely available than the rest of their offerings. Every bottle released through this series is at least 9 years old and is of exceptionally Rare Character.

From Lee Diaz, Topflight Series Panel Member: 

We have been astounded by the radical growth of Rare Character and their work to deliver highly custom single barrel releases and consistently tasty flavors, leveraging sourced casks from some of the most storied distilleries in the U.S. Because of this work, they have quickly developed a reputation for delivering extraordinary barrel releases and incredible examples of some of our favorite mash bills.

With that being said, when we were finally offered the opportunity to select a Rare Character Exceptional Series release, we were excited at the potential for what this would be. The tasting process left us (impatiently) awaiting this barrel, and I'm excited to finally share it with you. This is a Kentucky Straight Malt aged 12 years and 8 months. What exactly makes it a Kentucky Straight Malt? It was produced in Kentucky much in the same way as a straight bourbon; however, "at least 51%" of this mash bill, instead of corn in bourbon, is malted barley. Specifically, this mash bill comes in at 65% malted barley and 35% corn. Released at a cask strength that clocks in at 102.7, this is delightfully balanced, perfectly smooth, and full of flavor. The nose boasts malt, caramel, chocolate, and hazelnut. You'll discover flavors with every sip, including honey, marzipan, malt, dark fruit, walnut, and toasted oak. And on the finish, there are some prominent dark chocolate, cereal, stone fruit, and tea notes.

The team at Rare Character, led by restaurateur Pablo Moix and spirits storyteller Peter Nevenglosky, truly understands the virtues of honoring American whiskey heritage and here celebrates the virtues of the Kentucky Straight Malt. They make every Exceptional Series release standout; each has a unique piece of art from Pablo's wife—this ReserveBar release represents the Palm Springs Windmills in CA as seen from the 10 Freeway (represented by the gray space on the bottom of the image).

TOPFLIGHT: Series 3, Barrel No. 7

PROOF: 102.70

AGE: 12 Years, 8 Months

MASHBILL: 65% malt / 35% corn

FINISHING BARREL: New American Oak

BARRELED ON: March 2011

DATE PULLED: December 2023