Last year, I highlighted the Redwood Empire Distillery as it’s my opinion they continue to release amazing and new products at very reasonable pricing. Although this will not be a distillery highlight, this week and next will feature three new bottles that I have recently had the pleasure of finding from this distillery. Today’s review comes from the Redwood Empire Distillery and is an Exclusive Barrel Made for The Rockies; Redwood Empire Haystack Needle Single Barrel Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

Bottle Information

From the Redwood Empire Whiskey website: Single barrel, 100% grain-to-glass expressions. Each barrel is different. Each embraces a unique harmony between grain, distilling, barreling, and aging that showcases our hard-earned house style. We only produce 4 barrels a day. With such a small production we have an intimate relationship with every barrel, from start to finish. Haystack Needle is a true expression of our distillation philosophy and ability.

• Distiller: Distilled and Bottled by Redwood Empire Distilling
• Mash Bill: 72% Corn, 18% Rye, 5% Wheat, and 5% Malted Barley
• Proof: 119.6
• Age: 8
• Year: 2024
• MSRP: $149
• 2025 National Average: $TBD
• Official Website

This particular release is still a bit elusive in the NoCo area, and I have only seen two of the bourbon single barrels and one of the rye releases. Overall, this is a great pour that I am excited to have in my collection and to be able to share with others. This pour is a rollercoaster of enjoyment with an amazing balance of flavors. With that said, let’s get our taste on!

• Nose: Caramel, Motts Apple Juice, Brown Sugar, Baking Spice, and Slight Oak
• Palate: Baking Spice, Caramel Apple basted in Buttered Brown Sugar, Oak, and Bright Citrus
• Finish: Medium to Long with Notes of Bright Citrus and Baking Spice
• My Rating: Drink It! (This pour is a rollercoaster of enjoyment with an amazing balance of flavors!)

Please remember, drinking bourbon is a personal adventure, so do not be afraid to drink it neat, with ice, or add some water. It’s your bourbon, you bought it, and you should enjoy it how you want to enjoy it!

Cheers! Prost! Sláinte!

Bourbon Bossman®