Castle & Key Cask Finish Series Spanish Manzanilla Sherry Cask Rye Experimental Edition

Step into the world of inventive craftsmanship with the Castle & Key Cask Finish Series Spanish Manzanilla Sherry Cask Rye – Experimental Edition. Hailing from the revered grounds of the historic Old Taylor Distillery, Castle & Key continues its legacy of heritage and innovation by reimagining Kentucky rye whiskey with an unconventional cask finish.

This limited Experimental Edition rye whiskey is aged in Spanish Manzanilla Sherry casks for 18 months, delivering bold, layered flavors and a distinctly European finesse. Bottled at a potent 57.95% ABV (115.9 proof) and unfiltered, this cask strength expression is a rich and complex pour that pushes boundaries while honoring tradition.

Perfect for whiskey enthusiasts and collectors, this release exemplifies Castle & Key’s commitment to small-batch excellence, boundary-testing maturation, and bold flavor exploration.

Key Features:

• Cask Finish Series – Finished in Spanish Manzanilla Sherry casks

• Age – Aged 18 months in finishing barrels

• Mash Bill – 63% Rye, 17% Corn, 20% Malted Barley

• Strength – Cask Strength, 115.9 Proof (57.95% ABV)

• Batch Details – 2025 Blend, 2 barrels

• Volume – 750ml

• Edition – Limited Experimental Series

• No Artificial Flavoring Agents

• Locally Sourced Corn – From Walnut Grove Farms, Kentucky

Tasting Notes:

• Nose: Bright and lively with green apple, dried fig, and a delicate saline character from the sherry finish

• Palate: Textured and flavorful, showcasing dark fruit, peppery spice, and toasted almond, with the rye adding a spicy backbone

• Finish: Long, warm, and dry with lingering notes of sherry, cedar, and baking spice

How to Enjoy:

• Sip neat or with a drop of water to unveil the complex sherry-influenced layers

• Excellent for rye lovers looking to explore more adventurous, wine-cask-finished expressions

• Ideal for small pour tastings and whiskey discussion groups

FAQ:

Q: What makes this release part of the "Experimental Edition"?
A: Castle & Key's Experimental Series explores small-batch innovations, unique cask finishes, and boundary-pushing blends not typically found in traditional rye whiskey.

Q: Is this a sweet sherry finish?
A: No, Spanish Manzanilla Sherry imparts dry, saline, and nuanced characteristics rather than overt sweetness—resulting in a complex and elegant finish.

Q: How limited is this release?
A: Very. Only two barrels were used in this 2025 batch, making this a collector’s gem and a rare drinking experience.