Old Potrero Straight Rye 6 Year is a pot-distilled straight rye whiskey made from a mash of 100% malted rye, aged six years in new handmade, fine-grain charred American oak barrels and bottled at 97 proof (48.5% ABV).
Old Potrero is credited as the first American craft whiskey to reach the market after Prohibition. Its rye revival was fuelled by the realisation that rye was the grain of choice for America's first distillers, and that no pot-distilled whiskeys were being made legally in America in the early 1990s. Inspired by the rye whiskeys of America's past and by Scotland's great single malts, the small San Francisco team began experimenting, and the first whiskey went into the barrel in 1994.
In traditional barrel making, the cooper heats the staves over a fire of oak chips so they can be bent into shape. By the early 19th century, coopers had learned that letting the heat continue would set the inside of the barrel alight and char it. Barrels charred in this traditional way give this rye its rich colour and character. It is rich, complex and smooth, with cinnamon, orange, cherry and red-hot candies, and a nutty finish.
A pioneer of American craft whiskey, it makes a fine gift for rye lovers. It earned 85 points and a silver medal from the Beverage Testing Institute in 2020.
Enjoy it neat or in a classic Manhattan.
Tasting Notes
-
Flavour: Cinnamon, orange and cherry.
-
Sweetness: Red-hot candies.
-
Finish: Nutty.
Specifications
-
Producer: Old Potrero (Hotaling & Co.)
-
Style: Straight Rye Whiskey, pot distilled
-
Mash Bill: 100% malted rye
-
Age: 6 years
-
Proof / ABV: 97 proof (48.5% ABV)
-
Cask / Finish: New handmade charred American oak
-
Region: San Francisco, California, United States
-
Size: 700ml
How to Enjoy It
Enjoy it neat or in a Manhattan. It pairs with cherry desserts, roasted nuts or a cigar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the mash bill?
100% malted rye, pot distilled.
How old is it?
Six years.
Why is Old Potrero notable?
It is credited as the first American craft whiskey after Prohibition.
Explore more in our Rye collection.
