Doc Swinson’s is quickly becoming a household name among spirits enthusiasts, thanks in part to their innovative blending techniques and exceptional flavor profiles. This Washington-based brand prides itself on sourcing some of the best wine, rum, brandy, whiskey, and port casks worldwide, ensuring each blend offers a unique and unforgettable taste experience. Their attention to detail and use of rare casks are just a few reasons they stand out from the crowd, and their success in recent years speaks volumes. For instance, they expanded into 25 states in 2022 alone, won Best High Rye Bourbon at Tales of the Cocktail with their Blender’s Cut Bourbon, and were named Washington State Bourbon Distillery of the Year. These achievements are just the tip of the iceberg, as they offer a range of intriguing spirits that will delight even the most discerning palate. Let’s take a closer look at some of their most popular and unique offerings and see what makes this brand so special.
Blenders Cut Series
This series showcases the skill and artistry of the master blender, featuring unique blends of high-quality, aged bourbons and ryes that have been expertly selected and combined to create a distinctive flavor profile. Each release in the Blenders Cut Series is different, with its own unique combination of whiskies and flavor characteristics. The blends are carefully crafted to achieve a perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and complexity, with each component contributing something special to the final product.
Straight Bourbon Whiskey Bottled at Cask Strength
Part of the Blenders Cut Series is their 115 Proof Straight Bourbon – a distinguished spirit that packs a powerful punch. Blended by the skillful hands of Jesse Parker, Doc’s Master Blender, this bourbon will become a new favorite in your collection with its familiar balance of sweetness, spice, and oak. The nose on this whiskey is full of brown sugar, vanilla, and caramel, while the palate is a symphony of flavors and florals, including toasted nuts, lavender sprigs, baking spice, and dark fruit. Serve it over a nice piece of ice or with a splash of water, and let the layers of complexity enchant your senses. If you’re looking for something you can’t put down, this one is definitely worth a try.
Doc Swinson’s will be adding a 7-year Bottled in Bond to the Blenders Cut Series this year, with LTOs released twice a year in May and October.
Alter Ego Series
The name says it all here with Doc Swinson’s Alter Ego Series – a limited-edition line of premium blended bourbons that are designed to showcase the creative and experimental side of Doc Swinson’s brand. The series features unique blends that are crafted using high-quality, aged bourbons sourced from various distilleries across the United States. Each release in the Alter Ego Series is different, with its own distinctive flavor profile and character. Some of the releases are finished in unique casks, such as rum or port barrels, which impart additional layers of complexity and depth to the final product.
Solera Method: Alter Ego Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in Rum Casks
It was hard not to resist Doc Swinson’s award-winning Solera Method Rye – a must-try for any whiskey (or rum) lover. Using blending techniques from South and Central America and methods inspired by Spanish Sherry Bodegas, this whiskey stands out with its unique blending process. The aroma is an intoxicating mix of ripe cherries dipped in heavy cream and warm spices, and the taste is a complex blend of figs, cinnamon, and brown sugar with a cracked peppercorn finish. Made with patience and ingenuity, Doc Swinson’s Solera Method Straight Rye Whiskey is a standout among rye whiskies. Serve neat or in a classic spirit-forward cocktail of your choice.
The Exploratory Cask Series
If you want to explore beyond the boundaries of traditional whiskey today, look no further than Doc Swinson’s Exploratory Cask Series. Satisfying even the more adventurous whiskey connoisseurs, this line of experimental whiskeys pushes the limits of what’s possible. Head Blender Jesse Parker’s creative concepts really shine with this series, allowing him to play around with different flavors and methods, resulting in an array of unique and fantastic spirits.
Smoke on Water: Exploratory Cask Straight Rye Whiskey Finished in Ex-Peated Scotch Quarter Casks
My top choice in this line is Doc Swinson’s Smoke on Water – a true example of whiskey exploration. As a limited release, this straight rye whiskey is finished in ex-peated Scotch quarter casks, resulting in a complex and luxurious flavor profile. Jesse Parker has done it again, blending two five-year rye whiskies and barreling them in those super smokey scotch quarter casks, creating a rare and exceptional spirit that is robust yet smooth and nods to old-world charms. It’s no wonder Smoke on Water was awarded a Gold Medal at the American Spirits Competition. This whiskey’s richness and silky texture stand out even among the most highly regarded spirits. The aroma is delightfully crisp, with hints of salt and sea, dates, and vanilla bean, while the taste is a mesmerizing balance of subtle smoked peat, stone fruit, tobacco, and a finish of ripe chili peppers. Doc Swinson’s Smoke on Water is a thought-provoking experience that any whiskey enthusiast can get behind, but their French Toasted Straight Bourbon in French Oak and Funky Drummer Rye finished in Jamaican Rum Casks are equally enjoyable!
All in all, Doc Swinson’s is a brand that is worth keeping an eye on. Their whiskeys are innovative, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey drinker or just looking to dip your toes into the world of Washington bourbon and rye, there’s something for everyone in the Doc Swinson’s lineup. So, give them a try and see what all the hype is about. Your taste buds will thank you.
