{"title":"Blackened","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"blackened-american-whiskey-750ml","title":"Blackened American Whiskey 750ML","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlackened American Whiskey 750ML\u003c\/strong\u003e is a 90-proof (45% ABV) blend of straight bourbon and rye whiskeys finished in brandy casks, bottled at 750ml. Awarded a Double Gold Medal at the SIP Awards and Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, it stands apart through its proprietary BLACK NOISE sonic-aging process, co-developed with Metallica and engineers at Meyer Sound.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 45% (90 Proof)  |  Origin: Tennessee \u0026amp; Kentucky, USA  |  Style: Blended American Whiskey, Brandy Cask Finished  |  Bottler: Sweet Amber Distilling Co., Columbus, OH\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBlackened was born from a collaboration between the late master distiller Dave Pickerell — renowned for his decades at Maker's Mark and numerous craft distillery projects — and the members of Metallica. Pickerell hand-selected a marriage of straight bourbon and rye whiskeys sourced from distilleries in Tennessee and Kentucky, then finished the blend in black brandy casks. What truly distinguishes this expression is the BLACK NOISE process: low-frequency sound waves generated from Metallica's music are channeled through the finishing barrels, causing the liquid to reverberate against the charred oak staves at an accelerated rate. Co-developed with acoustic engineers at Meyer Sound, this sonic enhancement is designed to intensify the extraction of flavor compounds from the wood during the finishing period.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sweet vanilla and burnt caramel lead, followed by layers of honey, lemon cream, and spiced apricot. Deeper investigation reveals cracked corn, ginger, and a wisp of licorice.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is sweet and well-textured, with honey and candied apple giving way to a mid-palate rush of cinnamon, allspice, and clove. Cooked plums and chocolate nuttiness develop toward the peak, while an unexpected apricot note threads throughout.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Long and smooth, with a slightly creamy texture carrying butterscotch taffy, maple, and lingering honey. The brandy cask influence shows in the finish's gentle fruit sweetness, which fades gradually into warm oak.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Blackened\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNeat or with a single large ice cube allows the brandy cask finish and layered spice character to unfold fully. A few drops of water can open up the apricot and vanilla notes without dulling the proof. For cocktails, Blackened works well in an \u003cstrong\u003eOld Fashioned\u003c\/strong\u003e, where its inherent sweetness and spice reduce the need for added sugar; a \u003cstrong\u003eWhiskey Sour\u003c\/strong\u003e, where the apricot and honey tones complement fresh citrus; and a \u003cstrong\u003eManhattan\u003c\/strong\u003e, where the brandy cask finish creates an unusually smooth interplay with sweet vermouth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting a Metallica fan or music enthusiast who also appreciates whiskey\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExploring brandy cask-finished American whiskeys beyond single-distillery offerings\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHosting a tasting flight comparing finishing techniques — brandy cask versus port cask versus standard bourbon\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdding a conversation-starting bottle to a home bar collection\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Blackened taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Blackened delivers a sweet, well-textured palate of honey, cinnamon, allspice, and candied apple, with an underlying apricot note from its brandy cask finish and a long, creamy butterscotch and maple finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Blackened compare to Angel's Envy?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are blended or finished American whiskeys in a similar price tier, but they diverge in finishing vessel — Blackened uses brandy casks while Angel's Envy uses port wine barrels, giving the latter a more pronounced dark fruit and berry character. Blackened's BLACK NOISE sonic process and its blend of both bourbon and rye also create a spicier, more texturally complex profile.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Blackened good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — at 90 proof it has enough structure to hold up neat without being overly hot, and the brandy cask finish provides a smooth, approachable sweetness that rewards slow sipping.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Blackened made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Blackened is a blend of straight bourbon and rye whiskeys distilled in Tennessee and Kentucky, then finished and bottled by Sweet Amber Distilling Co. in Columbus, Ohio, where the BLACK NOISE sonic process is applied during the brandy cask finishing stage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Blackened?\u003c\/strong\u003e Smoked brisket or pulled pork complements the whiskey's caramel and oak character. Dark chocolate with sea salt mirrors the sweet-and-spice interplay. Grilled stone fruit like peaches echoes the apricot notes. Aged cheddar or Gruyère stands up to the proof while highlighting the butterscotch finish. Pecan pie aligns naturally with the maple and honey tones.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Blackened come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard expression is widely available in the 750ml bottle size.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Blackened worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Blackened positions as a mid-premium American whiskey, and its combination of multi-state sourcing, brandy cask finishing, and the proprietary BLACK NOISE process delivers a level of complexity and novelty that justifies its place in the category alongside other finished whiskeys in its tier.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Blackened?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe BLACK NOISE process is not a gimmick — the low-frequency sound wave technology was engineered by Meyer Sound, a leader in professional audio, specifically to accelerate the interaction between spirit and wood. Combined with Dave Pickerell's careful selection of bourbon and rye stocks from Tennessee and Kentucky and the brandy cask finishing step, the result is a whiskey with genuine layered complexity that has earned a 90-point rating from Wine Enthusiast and multiple competition medals. For drinkers seeking an American whiskey that pushes beyond conventional bourbon finishing without sacrificing balance, Blackened delivers a distinctive and well-executed expression.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Blackened","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837750276265,"sku":"31206","price":49.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Blackened-American-Whiskey__96285.jpg?v=1730493185"},{"product_id":"blackened-rye-750ml","title":"Blackened Rye 750ML","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlackened Rye 750ML\u003c\/strong\u003e is a 45% ABV (90 proof) American rye whiskey blending 5–8 year old straight rye and finished in both rum barrels and madeira casks. Named Whisky Advocate's No. 16 Whisky of 2022 with a 93-point score, this expression stands apart through its dual-cask finishing regimen and the brand's proprietary Black Noise sonic enhancement process developed in partnership with Metallica.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 45%  |  Origin: USA (Bottled in Columbus, OH)  |  5–8 Year Old Blend  |  Bottler: Sweet Amber Distilling Co.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBlackened is a collaboration between the late master distiller Dave Pickerell and the members of Metallica. Bottled by Sweet Amber Distilling Co. in Columbus, Ohio, this rye expression uses a 95% rye and 5% malted barley mashbill. The base whiskeys, aged between five and eight years, undergo sequential finishing in rum barrels and madeira casks for two to fourteen weeks each. During the entire finishing period, the barrels are subjected to Black Noise — a proprietary process in which Metallica's music is played on loop at low frequencies. The resulting sound waves vibrate the liquid inside the barrel, driving increased interaction between whiskey and wood to extract deeper flavors from the cask.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cinnamon baked apples and Red Hots candy lead the nose, followed by vanilla, monkey bread, and caramel swirl. A layer of musty oak and sugarless mint gum sits underneath, with dried fig, hay, and rum cake emerging as the whiskey opens up.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is rich with clover honey and sugar cane, transitioning into a spiced mid-palate of cinnamon, vanilla cream, and baked peaches. At its peak, burnt sugar cookies, candied nuts, and corn husk create layered sweetness, punctuated by dashes of jalapeño heat and walnut bitterness that keep it from tipping too sweet.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e The finish runs long and warm, anchored by sweet tea and mint with a tingling menthol sensation on the tongue. Wood spice and lingering cinnamon slowly fade, leaving a dry, lightly tannic close.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Blackened Rye\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eNeat or with a few drops of water is the ideal starting point — the dual-cask finishing delivers enough complexity to reward patient sipping, and water opens up the rum and madeira influences. On the rocks, the honey and mint notes become more pronounced. For cocktails, try it in a \u003cstrong\u003eManhattan\u003c\/strong\u003e, where the madeira-influenced sweetness pairs naturally with sweet vermouth; a \u003cstrong\u003eSazerac\u003c\/strong\u003e, where the 95% rye mashbill delivers the assertive spice the drink demands; or a \u003cstrong\u003eRum Old Fashioned riff\u003c\/strong\u003e, substituting this rye for rum to play on its rum-barrel finishing character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting a Metallica fan who also appreciates quality whiskey\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExploring finished rye whiskeys beyond single-barrel expressions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdding a conversation-starting bottle to a home bar\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSide-by-side tastings comparing dual-cask finishing techniques\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Blackened Rye taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Blackened Rye leads with cinnamon, clover honey, and baked apple sweetness, layered over vanilla cream and candied nuts. The rum-barrel and madeira-cask finishing adds tropical sweetness and dried fruit depth that sets it apart from typical straight rye profiles.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Blackened Rye compare to Barrell Seagrass?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are finished ryes that use multiple cask types — Barrell Seagrass employs rum, apricot brandy, and Martinique rum barrels, while Blackened Rye uses rum and madeira casks plus the Black Noise sonic process. Seagrass tends to lean more tropical and briny, whereas Blackened Rye emphasizes baking spice, honey, and mint.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Blackened Rye good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — at 90 proof, it sits at a comfortable strength for neat sipping, and the dual-cask finishing provides enough depth and complexity to hold attention across an extended pour.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Blackened Rye made?\u003c\/strong\u003e The rye whiskeys in this blend are sourced from American distilleries and bottled by Sweet Amber Distilling Co. in Columbus, Ohio. The finishing and Black Noise process also take place under Sweet Amber's oversight.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Blackened Rye?\u003c\/strong\u003e Pecan pie complements the honey and cinnamon notes; smoked pork belly mirrors the whiskey's warm spice; dark chocolate truffles accentuate the madeira-cask sweetness; sharp aged cheddar provides a savory counterpoint; and apple tart with brown butter echoes the baked fruit character on the nose.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Blackened Rye come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Blackened Rye is commonly available in the standard 750ml bottle size.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Blackened Rye worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Blackened Rye positions as a premium finished rye, and the dual-cask treatment plus 5–8 year age range place it above entry-level offerings. Its 93-point Whisky Advocate score and multiple awards suggest strong value relative to other finished ryes in its tier.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Blackened Rye?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe dual-cask finishing in rum and madeira barrels is the clearest differentiator here — very few American ryes undergo both treatments sequentially, and the combination creates a flavor profile that bridges the warmth of Caribbean rum aging with the oxidative richness of fortified wine casks. The Black Noise process, while unconventional, has been credited by multiple reviewers with contributing to the whiskey's pronounced barrel influence relative to its finishing duration. A 93-point score from Whisky Advocate and a spot on their Top 20 list in 2022 confirm this is more than a novelty — it is a seriously constructed rye that competes with established finished expressions from Barrell and High West.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Blackened","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837977981097,"sku":"36152","price":74.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Blackened-Rye__93542.jpg?v=1730502831"},{"product_id":"blackened-x-wes-henderson-bourbon-750ml","title":"Blackened X Wes Henderson Bourbon 750ML","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlackened X Wes Henderson Bourbon 750ML\u003c\/strong\u003e is a cask strength Kentucky straight bourbon finished in white port wine casks, bottled at 116.2 proof (58.1% ABV) in a 750ml bottle. This collaboration earned a Grand Gold medal at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, underscoring its standing among top-tier finished bourbons.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 58.1% (116.2 proof)  |  Origin: Kentucky, USA  |  6-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon  |  Produced by: Blackened American Whiskey (sourced from undisclosed Kentucky distillery)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBlackened American Whiskey is the spirits brand founded by Metallica and the late Master Distiller Dave Pickerell. This particular release pairs the brand with Wes Henderson, co-founder of Angel's Envy and one of the most respected names in finished whiskey production. The 6-year Kentucky straight bourbon was finished in white port wine casks — a deliberate nod to Henderson's expertise with port-finished whiskey — and then subjected to Blackened's proprietary BLACK NOISE™ sonic enhancement process, in which low-hertz frequencies from Metallica's music vibrate the finishing barrels to intensify the interaction between liquid and wood. The result is bottled at cask strength with no chill filtration, preserving every layer of flavor extracted during finishing.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ripe pear and dark raisin arrive first, followed by warm cinnamon and an undercurrent of cigar box. Deeper investigation reveals jammy fruit, toasted oak, and threads of caramel sweetness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is rich with pear and honey, building quickly into a complex mid-palate of chipotle-laced cinnamon, vanilla, and roasted citrus. As it develops at full proof, layers of walnut, barn hay, cocoa, leather, and soft marshmallow emerge, showcasing the influence of the white port cask finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Long, viscous, and deeply satisfying, with lingering warmth from the cask strength proof. Cinnamon spice and dried fruit carry through, framed by gentle oak tannins that fade slowly.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Blackened X Wes Henderson\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt 116.2 proof, this bourbon rewards patient sipping neat — start undiluted, then add a few drops of water to open the port cask sweetness without drowning the proof-driven intensity. For cocktails, the cask strength backbone holds its own: an \u003cstrong\u003eOld Fashioned\u003c\/strong\u003e benefits from the pear and cinnamon complexity replacing the need for elaborate bitters choices; a \u003cstrong\u003eBoulevardier\u003c\/strong\u003e gains unexpected depth as the white port finish harmonizes with Campari's bitterness; and a \u003cstrong\u003eWhiskey Sour\u003c\/strong\u003e at this proof delivers a rich, full-bodied version where the honey and vanilla notes balance the citrus beautifully.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting a bourbon enthusiast who appreciates limited collaboration releases\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdding a cask strength, wine-finished bourbon to a home whiskey collection\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHosting a comparative tasting alongside port-finished whiskeys\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMetallica fans who want a genuinely excellent whiskey tied to the band's legacy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Blackened X Wes Henderson taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e It leads with ripe pear and honey, layered with chipotle cinnamon, vanilla, roasted citrus, and cocoa, all amplified by cask strength intensity and the sweetness imparted by white port wine cask finishing.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Blackened X Wes Henderson compare to Angel's Envy?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both share a connection to Wes Henderson and a philosophy of wine-cask finishing, but Angel's Envy Bourbon is finished in ruby port barrels at a lower 86.6 proof, making it softer and more approachable. Blackened X Wes Henderson uses white port casks and is bottled at a considerably higher 116.2 proof, delivering a bolder, more viscous drinking experience with greater barrel influence.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Blackened X Wes Henderson good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e Absolutely — the non-chill filtered, cask strength profile was designed for neat sipping, though a splash of water will open up additional fruit and honey notes hidden behind the high proof.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Blackened X Wes Henderson made?\u003c\/strong\u003e The bourbon is sourced from an undisclosed Kentucky distillery, aged for six years, and then finished and subjected to the BLACK NOISE™ process under the Blackened American Whiskey label.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Blackened X Wes Henderson?\u003c\/strong\u003e Smoked brisket complements the chipotle cinnamon spice; dark chocolate truffles echo the cocoa and vanilla; aged Gouda mirrors the caramel sweetness; pecan pie amplifies the nutty, honeyed profile; and charcuterie with dried fruits ties into the pear and raisin aromatics.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Blackened X Wes Henderson come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard release is available in a 750ml bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Blackened X Wes Henderson worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e It positions as a premium, limited-collaboration release with cask strength potency, wine-cask finishing, and a Grand Gold medal from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition — placing it competitively among specialty finished bourbons in the upper-premium tier.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Blackened X Wes Henderson?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis release represents the intersection of two significant names in American whiskey: Blackened's unconventional sonic aging approach and Wes Henderson's decades of mastery in wine-cask finishing. The white port cask finish is uncommon in bourbon, setting it apart from the more typical ruby port, sherry, or rum barrel finishes flooding the market. Its Grand Gold medal at the 2023 San Francisco World Spirits Competition validates the quality beyond novelty, and the non-chill filtered, cask strength bottling ensures nothing is lost between barrel and glass. For drinkers seeking a finished bourbon with genuine complexity and provenance behind the label, this collaboration delivers substance that matches its story.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Blackened","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44837997740201,"sku":"36883","price":129.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Blackened-X-Wes-Henderson-Bourbon__67305.jpg?v=1730504070"},{"product_id":"blackened-x-rabbit-hole-bourbon-750ml","title":"Blackened X Rabbit Hole Bourbon 750ML","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBlackened X Rabbit Hole Bourbon 750ML\u003c\/strong\u003e is a cask-strength collaboration bourbon finished in Calvados apple brandy casks, bottled at 53.3% ABV (106.59 proof) in a 750ml bottle. This Double Platinum winner at the ASCOT Awards marries a 13-year-old Tennessee straight bourbon with Rabbit Hole's Heigold high-rye double malt Kentucky straight bourbon, creating a layered profile that bridges two distinct whiskey-making traditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 53.3% (106.59 Proof)  |  Origin: Tennessee \u0026amp; Kentucky, USA  |  Cask Strength, Non-Chill Filtered  |  Distilleries: Sweet Amber Distilling Co. \u0026amp; Rabbit Hole Distillery\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis release draws from two mashbills: a 13-year-old Tennessee straight bourbon composed of 64% corn and 36% rye, and Rabbit Hole Distillery's Heigold expression built on 70% corn, 25% malted rye, and 5% malted barley. After blending, the whiskey was finished in Calvados apple brandy casks sourced from Normandy, France, adding a fruit-forward dimension to the already complex base spirits. Like all Blackened releases, the barrels underwent the proprietary Black Noise process, in which low-hertz sound waves—often drawn from Metallica albums such as \u003cem\u003eMaster of Puppets\u003c\/em\u003e—pulse against the casks to intensify interaction between the wood and whiskey. The final liquid was bottled at cask strength without chill filtration, preserving its full body and texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Apple butter and honeysuckle lead the nose, followed by rhubarb, graham cracker, and a subtle macadamia nut warmth. With time in the glass, dark spices, toffee, and honey-roasted peanuts emerge and round out the bouquet.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry delivers ripe pear and cinnamon stick alongside smoky campfire notes. At mid-palate, bursts of cherry and brown sugar give way to warming rye spice, field clover, honey, and black walnut. Extended time reveals silky maple tones and baked apple from the Calvados cask influence.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Long and layered, with a drying cocoa note that grounds the lingering sweetness. Cherry pie crust, char, and a subtle pine resinousness carry through to the very end.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Blackened X Rabbit Hole\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAt cask strength, this bourbon rewards a patient neat pour—let it rest five minutes to allow the toffee and baked apple notes to fully open. A few drops of water soften the proof and amplify the Calvados-driven fruit character without sacrificing body.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOld Fashioned:\u003c\/strong\u003e The high proof and layered spice hold up beautifully against bitters and a sugar cube, with the apple brandy finish adding a unique fruit undertone.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eManhattan:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rye spice and dark cherry notes in the bourbon complement sweet vermouth, while the cask-strength backbone prevents the cocktail from becoming too soft.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBoulevardier:\u003c\/strong\u003e The whiskey's toffee sweetness and smoky depth balance Campari's bitterness, creating a rich, autumnal variation of the classic.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCollectors who seek limited collaboration releases between notable distilleries\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting a whiskey enthusiast who appreciates cask-strength, barrel-finished expressions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSide-by-side tastings comparing Tennessee and Kentucky bourbon characteristics\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSpecial-occasion sipping when you want a bourbon that evolves dramatically in the glass\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Blackened X Rabbit Hole taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e It leads with ripe pear, cinnamon, and cherry, layered over smoky campfire and brown sugar notes that build toward a drying cocoa finish. The Calvados cask finishing contributes distinct baked apple and maple sweetness throughout.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Blackened X Rabbit Hole compare to Blackened X Wes Henderson?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are cask-strength Blackened collaborations, but the Rabbit Hole edition incorporates a high-rye double malt bourbon and a Calvados cask finish, giving it a more pronounced fruit character. The Wes Henderson release used a different blending and finishing approach, and some reviewers have noted it delivers a more traditional bourbon profile at a slightly lower price point.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Blackened X Rabbit Hole good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes—its non-chill-filtered, cask-strength character rewards neat sipping, particularly after a few minutes of rest in the glass, which allows the initial dark spice intensity to soften into silky, rounded layers of honey, cinnamon, and baked apple.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Blackened X Rabbit Hole made?\u003c\/strong\u003e The bourbon is a blend of Tennessee straight bourbon from Sweet Amber Distilling Co. and Kentucky straight bourbon from Rabbit Hole Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky. The blending, Calvados cask finishing, and Black Noise sonic-enhancement process are handled under the Blackened Whiskey program.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Blackened X Rabbit Hole?\u003c\/strong\u003e Smoked pork belly complements the whiskey's campfire and char notes. Apple tarte tatin echoes the Calvados cask influence. Aged Gruyère matches the toffee and nutty aromas. Pecan pie mirrors the brown sugar and maple sweetness. Dark chocolate truffles align with the drying cocoa on the finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Blackened X Rabbit Hole come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e The standard release is available in a 750ml bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Blackened X Rabbit Hole worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e It positions as a premium limited-release collaboration, and its cask-strength proof, 13-year-old component whiskey, Calvados finishing, and Double Platinum ASCOT Award place it in competitive standing within the high-end bourbon category for its price tier.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Blackened X Rabbit Hole?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe marriage of a well-aged Tennessee bourbon with Rabbit Hole's grain-forward Heigold expression creates a base that few single-distillery releases can replicate. Finishing in genuine Calvados casks—not generic apple brandy barrels—adds a specificity of fruit character that separates this from the wave of flavored or simply finished bourbons flooding the market. A Double Platinum at the ASCOT Awards and a Gold Medal at the 2023 New York Wine \u0026amp; Spirits Competition validate the blend's quality beyond marketing claims. At 106.59 proof and non-chill filtered, this is a bourbon that delivers full transparency of flavor from barrel to glass.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Blackened","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44839212089513,"sku":"38440","price":149.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Blackened-X-Rabbit-Hole-Bourbon__70888.jpg?v=1730518073"}],"url":"https:\/\/theliquorbarn.com\/collections\/blackened.oembed","provider":"The Liquor Barn","version":"1.0","type":"link"}