Danish distillery Stauning has released what is thought to be the world’s first rye whisky finished in vermouth barrels.
El Clásico is aged for three years in virgin American oak before spending another year maturing in Spanish vermouth casks.
According to the brand, the time in vermouth barrels lends ‘subtle notes of bitter botanicals’ to the spicy, sweet palate.
The 45.7% ABV whisky retails for RRP £60 (US$83) from Master of Malt. Stauning recommends sipping it over ice or serving it in classic cocktails such as the Sazerac.
El Clásico is the third bottling in the distillery’s research series, joining Bastard, a rye whisky finished in mezcal barrels, and Curious, a peated new make spirit.
Denmark’s Stauning Distillery is part‐owned by Diageo-backed Distill Ventures, which invested around £50 million (US$US$64m) in the producer.