Whisky Review/Tasting: Collingwood 21 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Canadian
Type: Rye Whisky
Distillation and Maturation Process: Matured for 21 years, 100% malted rye in used barrels with a unique maple wood finish. The whisky underwent a mellowing process involving toasted maple wood, which is not commonly detailed but involves caramelizing the sugars inside the maple wood, enhancing the whisky's flavor profile.
Age Statement: 21 years
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the emphasis on the maple wood finish suggests a potentially rich, amber hue.
Bottle Design: Described as very beautiful, though it features a plastic cap and dispenser, which the reviewer sees as areas for improvement.

Balance of Flavors: Dominated by very ripe berry notes and a significant maple syrup influence, despite not containing maple syrup directly. The flavor profile is complex, with a notable spiciness attributed to the rye and a unique chili-like spiciness.
Unique Characteristics: The whisky is exceptionally fruity for a non-wine or sherry barrel-aged spirit, with a long-lasting berry finish. It's described as the most complex among North American whiskies the reviewer has tasted.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, its complexity and unique maple wood mellowing process set it apart from typical North American rye whiskies.

Anecdote: The Collingwood 21 years rye was discovered by chance in a warehouse, from a "forgotten lot" due to a mix-up in bookkeeping or machinery. This lot, numbered 410691, was unexpectedly found to be 21 years old, leading to its special bottling.

Canadian Whisky Tradition: The use of maple wood for mellowing and the emphasis on rye highlight aspects of Canadian whisky craftsmanship. The story of discovering a forgotten lot adds a layer of intrigue and rarity to this particular bottle, underscoring the serendipitous nature of whisky aging and discovery.

"That is the most complex...from the North American whiskies that I've tried so far."
"The most fruity thing I've ever tasted that was not matured in wine barrels or sherry barrels."

Collingwood 21 years is a Canadian rye whisky, aged for 21 years, with a unique maple wood finish.
It features a complex flavor profile dominated by ripe berries and maple syrup, with a spicy rye backbone and a chili-like spiciness.
The whisky was discovered as part of a "forgotten lot," adding to its rarity and story.
The use of maple wood for mellowing is a distinctive process that contributes to its unique flavor profile.
The bottle design is aesthetically pleasing, though the use of plastic components is noted as a drawback.
This whisky is described as exceptionally complex and fruity for a spirit not aged in wine or sherry barrels.

For the Whisky Connoisseur: The complexity and unique story of this whisky make it a must-try for those who appreciate rare finds and intricate flavor profiles.
For the Rye Whisky Lover: Its robust rye character, enhanced by the maple wood mellowing, offers a new experience even for seasoned rye enthusiasts.
For the Adventurous Drinker: The unusual discovery story and the unconventional use of maple wood for flavoring will appeal to those looking to explore beyond traditional whisky profiles.