Imagine indulging in a whiskey blend that combines the richness of rye, the elegance of Calvados, and the history of vintage Armagnac. Well, now you can, thanks to Raj Bhakta, the founder of WhistlePig. After his departure from WhistlePig, Bhakta embarked on a quest for self-discovery and ended up creating Bhakta 1928. This exquisite whiskey is a combination of 2018 vintage American straight rye whiskey, XO Calvados, and a mix of Armagnac dating back to 1928. With enticing notes of custard and caramel on the nose, followed by flavors of oak and spice on the palate, Bhakta 1928 offers a truly remarkable drinking experience. And the best part? It’s priced at an accessible $70, making it the perfect addition to any whiskey enthusiast’s collection.
Background on WhistlePig’s Founder, Raj Bhakta
Raj Bhakta, an American entrepreneur, is known for founding the popular whiskey brand WhistlePig in 2007. WhistlePig played a crucial role in the resurgence of rye whiskey and gained a loyal following for its high-quality offerings. However, in 2019, Bhakta had a split from WhistlePig, leading him on a new journey.
Raj Bhakta’s journey after a split from WhistlePig
After parting ways with WhistlePig, Raj Bhakta embarked on a journey of self-discovery and exploration within the spirits industry. It was during this time that he acquired a cellar in Condom, France, which housed a collection of Armagnac dating back to 1868. This acquisition sparked his creative inspiration and set the stage for his next venture.
Acquisition of a Cellar in France
The acquisition of the cellar in Condom, France, was a significant milestone for Raj Bhakta. The cellar contained a remarkable collection of Armagnac, a type of brandy produced in the Gascony region of France. The brandy in the cellar had been aged for several decades, with some dating back over a century. This collection served as the foundation for Bhakta’s future spirit creations.
Amalgamation of French Brandy and American Rye to create Bhakta 1928
Drawing inspiration from the cellar’s brandy collection, Raj Bhakta set out to create a unique and exceptional whiskey blend. He combined the rich flavors of the American rye with the elegance and complexity of French brandy, resulting in the creation of Bhakta 1928.
Composition of Bhakta 1928
Bhakta 1928 is a meticulously crafted whiskey blend that combines various spirits to achieve its distinctive flavor profile. It begins with a blend of 2018 vintage American straight rye whiskey, which forms the base of the blend. To enhance the complexity, Raj Bhakta included XO Calvados, a premium apple brandy from France’s Normandy region. Additionally, Bhakta 1928 is enriched with Armagnac from multiple vintage years, including 1928, 1941, 1962, 1973, and 1996. To add an extra layer of depth and character, touches of a 100-year-old brandy are incorporated into the blend.
Bhakta 1928’s Double Cask Finish
To further refine and enhance the flavors of Bhakta 1928, it undergoes a double cask finish. This process involves aging the whiskey blend in virgin French oak barrels after its initial maturation period. The virgin French oak barrels impart unique flavors and aromas to the spirit, contributing to its final taste profile.
Process of double cask finish
During the double cask finish, Bhakta 1928 is transferred to new, unused French oak barrels. This allows the whiskey blend to interact with the fresh wood and absorb the flavors and characteristics of the virgin oak. The additional aging period in these barrels adds depth, complexity, and a rich oak influence to the final product.
Role of Virgin French Oak in the final taste
The use of virgin French oak in the double cask finish plays a crucial role in shaping the flavor profile of Bhakta 1928. The virgin oak imparts distinct notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice to the whiskey blend, enhancing its overall complexity and providing a delightful sensory experience.
Raj Bhakta’s Views on Bhakta 1928
Raj Bhakta takes immense pride in the creation of Bhakta 1928 and its unique flavor profile. He considers the base rye used in the blend to be superior to anything he has created before. According to him, the addition of 1928 Armagnac grants Bhakta 1928 a transcendent quality, elevating it to the epitome of whiskey perfection. Furthermore, Bhakta 1928 serves as an ode to the spirit of the Roaring Twenties, bringing back the energy and excitement of that era.
Inspiration behind creation of a superior base rye
Raj Bhakta’s pursuit of creating a superior base rye stems from his dedication to quality and craftsmanship. He sought to push the boundaries of whiskey-making and surpass the excellence he had achieved with previous creations. By utilizing a base rye that surpasses his earlier endeavors, Bhakta 1928 stands as a testament to his continuous drive for innovation and improvement.
Vision behind the remake of the Roaring Twenties with Bhakta 1928
With Bhakta 1928, Raj Bhakta aimed to revive the spirit of the Roaring Twenties, a time of excitement, prosperity, and cultural vibrancy. By combining the elegance of French brandy with the boldness of American rye, Bhakta 1928 embodies the essence of that era. It is a celebration of the past while embracing the contemporary palate, inviting enthusiasts to reminisce and indulge in the legacy of the Roaring Twenties.
Sensory Experience of Bhakta 1928
Bhakta 1928 offers a sensory experience that captivates the senses with its rich and enticing characteristics. From the moment you take your first whiff to the lingering finish, each aspect of Bhakta 1928 presents a delightful journey of flavors and aromas.
Aroma characterization of Bhakta 1928
On the nose, Bhakta 1928 reveals a captivating bouquet of scents. The aromas of custard, caramel, and vanilla greet the senses, creating an inviting and comforting olfactory experience. These sweeter notes blend harmoniously with the inherent richness of the whiskey and brandy components.
Flavors experienced in the palate
As the whiskey blend touches your palate, a symphony of flavors unfolds. The oak influence from the aging process becomes apparent, providing a foundation of rich, woody notes. Spice elements mingle with the sweetness of the rye and brandy, creating a complex and layered taste profile. Vanilla nuances add depth and contribute to a smooth and enjoyable drinking experience.
Concluding notes in the finish of the whiskey blend
The finish of Bhakta 1928 leaves a lasting impression. The oak notes persist, accompanied by mellow tannins that harmonize with the other flavors. The lingering finish is balanced and satisfying, ensuring that each sip of Bhakta 1928 is a moment to savor and appreciate.
Overview of Bhakta Spirits
Bhakta 1928 is part of the portfolio of Bhakta Spirits, a company founded by Raj Bhakta. This venture represents his continued passion for crafting exceptional spirits with unique stories and flavor profiles.
Launch and positioning of Bhakta Spirits
Bhakta Spirits was launched following Raj Bhakta’s split from WhistlePig. The brand aims to establish itself as a producer of premium and innovative spirits that push the boundaries of traditional craftsmanship. With unique offerings and a commitment to quality, Bhakta Spirits seeks to captivate spirits enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike.
Other spirit varieties released by Bhakta Spirits
In addition to Bhakta 1928, Bhakta Spirits has released a range of other exceptional spirits. One notable offering is Bhakta 1990 Rum, a premium rum featuring distinct flavors and a luxurious drinking experience. Priced at $500 per bottle, Bhakta 1990 Rum serves as a testament to the brand’s dedication to excellence and craftsmanship.
Bhakta 1990 Rum
Bhakta 1990 Rum is a premium rum that showcases the brand’s commitment to crafting exceptional spirits. This limited-edition rum is meticulously crafted using the finest ingredients and a meticulous aging process. With its unique flavor profile and exquisite presentation, Bhakta 1990 Rum offers a truly indulgent experience for discerning rum enthusiasts.
Features and price detail of Bhakta 1990 Rum
Bhakta 1990 Rum stands as a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of Bhakta Spirits. The rum captivates the palate with its rich, complex flavors and luxurious texture. Priced at $500 per bottle, Bhakta 1990 Rum represents a premium offering for those seeking an unforgettable rum experience.
50-Year-Old Brandy
Another remarkable spirit released by Bhakta Spirits is the 50-Year-Old Brandy. This exquisite offering showcases the brand’s dedication to aging and maturing spirits to perfection. The 50-Year-Old Brandy is a unique blend that has been finished in Islay Scotch whisky casks, adding a distinct and intriguing twist to the traditional brandy profile.
Unique traits of the 50-Year-Old Brandy
The 50-Year-Old Brandy sets itself apart with its exceptional age and finishes. The brandy has undergone a meticulous aging process for five decades, allowing the flavors to develop and mature over time. The finishing touch in Islay Scotch whisky casks adds layers of complexity, creating a truly exceptional and one-of-a-kind drinking experience.
Current market price
As a premium and rare offering, the 50-Year-Old Brandy carries a price tag that reflects its exceptional quality. Currently priced at $450 per bottle, it is a treasure for collectors and brandy enthusiasts seeking a remarkable addition to their collection.
Affordability of Bhakta 1928
While Bhakta Spirits offers a range of premium spirits, Bhakta 1928 stands out as a more accessible option. Priced at $70 per bottle, it provides an opportunity for whiskey enthusiasts to experience the excellence crafted by Raj Bhakta at a more affordable price point. This affordability ensures that more individuals can enjoy the unique flavor profile and refinement of Bhakta 1928.
Positioning of Bhakta 1928 as an accessible product
Raj Bhakta intentionally positioned Bhakta 1928 as a more accessible product within the Bhakta Spirits portfolio. By offering this exceptional whiskey blend at a reasonable price, he aims to share his passion for high-quality spirits with a broader audience. Bhakta 1928 provides an opportunity for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to experience the craftsmanship and sophistication of Bhakta Spirits.
Retail price for Bhakta 1928
Bhakta 1928 is available for purchase at a retail price of $70 per bottle. This pricing reflects the brand’s commitment to making the whiskey blend accessible to a wider audience. With its unique flavor profile and exceptional quality, Bhakta 1928 offers a compelling option for those seeking an outstanding whiskey experience.
Purchase Details for Bhakta 1928
For those interested in experiencing Bhakta 1928 firsthand, it is readily available for purchase. The whiskey blend can be obtained through Bhakta Spirits’ official website. By visiting the brand’s online store, whiskey enthusiasts have the opportunity to secure their own bottle of Bhakta 1928 and indulge in the distinctive flavor profile crafted by Raj Bhakta.
Availability of Bhakta 1928
Bhakta 1928 is currently available for purchase through Bhakta Spirits’ official website. This accessibility ensures that whiskey enthusiasts from various locations can acquire a bottle of Bhakta 1928 and experience the unique flavor profile for themselves. The availability of Bhakta 1928 online enables fans to conveniently enjoy this exceptional whiskey blend without the limitations of geographical boundaries.
Official website for purchasing Bhakta 1928
The official website of Bhakta Spirits serves as the platform for purchasing Bhakta 1928. By visiting the brand’s online store, enthusiasts have a streamlined and secure process to acquire a bottle of this remarkable whiskey blend. The website provides detailed information about Bhakta 1928 and allows customers to explore other offerings from Bhakta Spirits.
