Whiskey Culture Monthly Picks (February 2022)
As January fades and February brings in early promises of spring, our recommendations shift from warm and heavy pours to something a little brighter. Here we have for you our top, easier-to-find picks for this month.
1) Nashville Barrel Co. Single Barrel Bourbon
Nashville Barrel Co. is headed up by power-duo Mike Hinds and James Davenport. By their powers combined, they took a fairly untapped concept, one that people used to turn their nose up at, and made it mainstream.
NBC has shown us just how much flavor, maturity, and character can be stuffed into a bourbon around 5 years old. These single barrels have been amongst some of the most unique and enjoyable whiskey under 6 years we’ve been able to find.
If you have an opportunity to grab one of these flavor bombs, you’d be remiss not to swipe your card.
2) New Riff Single Barrel
New Riff is still a newer player on the block at under a decade old, but they’ve made a big splash in a small amount of time. And, that’s for a good reason: their whiskey is pretty damn good.
They were built on their bourbon, and their Single Barrel takes all of the viscous caramel goodness and amps it up. It’s no wonder New Riff picks are becoming popular in groups around the country. They’re a solid bourbon that’s approachable for younger whiskey enthusiasts, but complex enough to keep veteran sippers happy.
3) Sagamore Spirit Rye
Sagamore has entered the phase where they have multiple good entries, unique single barrels, and a whole lotta options for a whole lotta different kinds of drinkers.
However, that being said, there is something to be said about their OG rye. It’s the backbone upon which their line is founded, and maintains a great balance of approachability to classical rye flavors that’ll keep you sipping for a while.
4) The Glenlivet 12
I always try to include a scotch in my lists for two reasons. First, because I like them. Second, because I feel they aren’t given a fair shake in the midst of the bourbon boom.
The Glenlivet 12 doesn’t have as many of the bolder flavors that might turn off fledgling scotch drinkers. It’s got a nice amount of smoke, light and sweet malty notes, and very little burn.
5) Green Spot Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey
Single pot still whiskey is on the rise in the United States. So much so that it’s one of the fastest-growing whiskey categories. And, one particular brand has really carved a name for itself in a market that’s quickly growing in competition.
Green Spot is the entry-level expression from Spot Whiskey. But, boy does it pack a lot of great flavor into a bottle at an affordable price. That distinctive single pot still malt flavor is out in full force while still being surprisingly crisp and smooth.
6) Laws Whiskey House Cask Strength Rye
Rye whiskey is one of those things that, when done right, is just unbelievably delicious. People don’t give rye credit for the diversity of expression and profile that rye whiskey can be found in. And, Laws Whiskey House has found a great and balanced profile of sweet, earthy, and tangy with this expression.
For there to be such a great balance of flavors, heat, boldness, and drinkability, this one is a rye whiskey for rye lovers.
Greg Sinadinos started his spirits journey writing a whiskey periodical for Fine Tobacco NYC Magazine. He began answering review requests under a social media page he named “Whiskey Culture,” which quickly merged with Greg’s passion for connecting with others and his interest in history.
Today, Greg travels the country not just looking for great whiskey, but also exploring the history and individuals that the whiskey community is founded upon. He has authored “Whiskey History From Around The World” and is the host of “The Rickhouse” web series.
