High West Cask Collection Finished in Petite Sirah Barrels (750Ml)

High West Cask Collection Petite Sirah is a limited release from the Utah distiller. It begins as a blend of straight bourbon and straight rye. Those whiskeys are 6 to 10 years old. The blend then rests for seven months in barrels that once held Petite Sirah wine. It is bottled at 100 proof.

Petite Sirah is a dark, inky red grape with firm tannins. Its barrels give the whiskey plenty of fruit and a bit of grip. The rye in the blend keeps a spicy backbone running through it.

Bring the glass close and you find dark berries and ripe plum. Caramel, vanilla and toasted oak sit just behind. On your tongue, blackberry and plum lead, joined by dried fig and baking spice. Wine tannins and charred oak give it structure. The finish is long and slightly drying, with dark fruit, spice and oak that hang around.

Try it neat first, then add a few drops of water. A large ice cube also works well. Pair it with grilled ribeye, smoked brisket or aged Gouda. A blackberry tart or roasted walnuts bring out the fruit.

This bottle suits you if you like both whiskey and big red wine. Since Cask Collection runs are small, it may not be around for long.