Whistlepig 15 vs Whistlepig 18: Whiskey Comparison

Last Updated on: 12th April 2024, 03:39 am

J Highland

J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.

Discover the differences between Whistlepig 15 vs Whistlepig 18 in this head-to-head comparison and decide which Whiskey is better for You!

Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Written by: J Highland

Whistlepig 15 vs Whistlepig 18: Comparison

WhistlePig 15: A standout rye whiskey that surprises with its combination of oak, vanilla, and leather on the nose, and a palate rich in caramel and rye spice. It’s a well-balanced dram with a long finish, featuring oak and tobacco notes, making it a favorite for those who appreciate a bold yet sweet rye.

WhistlePig 18: Known as Double Malt, this whiskey emphasizes oak and leather, with a touch of citrus. Its palate is dominated by oak and rye spice, offering a smoother experience with a long, vanilla-infused finish. While it offers a unique take on rye, its strong oak presence might not appeal to all, especially considering its premium positioning.

Verdict: The 15-year-old variant is celebrated for its complexity and sweetness, appealing to a broad audience. The 18-year-old, while smooth and refined, may be best suited for those with a preference for oak-forward flavors, though it might not match the complexity expected at its price point, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Top Whistlepig Bourbons

WhistlePig 15: A Bold Rye with a Sweet Surprise

Nose: Oak, vanilla, leather
Palate: Caramel, floral, rye spice, vanilla
Finish: Long, oak, tobacco, cardamom
Alcohol content: 92 proof (46% ABV)
How to drink: Add water, rocks
Similar to: Whistlepig 12

The WhistlePig 15 stands out for its unique mash bill, using 100% rye grain compared to the typical 51% minimum. This twist creates a distinct flavor profile.

Intriguing Aroma:

Expect oaky and leathery notes, reminiscent of aged Scotch whisky, on the nose.

Sweet & Spicy Delight:

The palate offers a surprising sweetness with prominent honeysuckle, followed by a satisfying rye spice kick. The smooth texture delivers a gentle warming sensation.

Refined Finish:

The finish features toasty oak, tobacco, and a range of spices, all without any harsh burn.

Overall:

The WhistlePig 15 is a delightful rye whiskey with a unique and flavorful profile. While leaning towards the sweeter side, it surpasses the 12-year expression and might be considered Whistlepig’s finest release.

Bonus Facts:

Aged in 3 cask types: new charred oak, used bourbon barrels, and new charred Vermont white oak.
Vermont white oak, grown on the WhistlePig estate, is said to add depth and flavor.
Earned a 97-point rating from Wine Enthusiast.

WhistlePig 18: A Smooth, Oak-Forward Rye

Nose: Oak, leather, lemon, orange
Palate: Oak spice, rye spice, leather, vanilla
Finish: Long, vanilla, oak
Alcohol content: 92 proof (46% ABV)
How to drink: Add water, rocks

The WhistlePig 18, also known as Double Malt, is a rye whiskey with a unique twist. It uses two malted grains: rye (79%) and barley (6%), alongside corn (15%). This gives it a distinct flavor profile.

What to expect:

Aroma: Strong oak and leather notes initially, with hints of citrus emerging over time.
Taste: Bold oak and rye spice upfront, followed by smoother notes of leather, vanilla, and lemon.
Finish: Long-lasting, dominated by oak and vanilla, with a touch of bitterness.

Smooth, but not complex:

While enjoyable, the WhistlePig 18 leans heavily on oak flavors, common in aged whiskies. Adding water reveals some caramel, but the oak remains prominent.

Considering the Price:

For the price, some might find other options offer more complexity. For instance, the Macallan Sherry Oak, known for its exceptional quality, delivers a richer experience for discerning whiskey lovers. While they belong to different categories, the Macallan offers a wider range of flavor notes.

A Bit of History:

Traditionally, before rye whiskey became widespread, farmers would malt their rye to convert starches into sugars, kickstarting fermentation. This practice is reflected in the WhistlePig 18’s unique mash bill.

In short:

The WhistlePig 18 is a smooth rye whiskey with a strong oak influence. While enjoyable, its price point might lead some to explore options offering greater complexity.