Redwood Empire "Haystack Needle" Single Barrel Straight Rye Whiskey

Redwood Empire Haystack Needle 8 Year Single Barrel Rye Whiskey Barrel #2766 is distilled grain to glass by Redwood Empire Distillery in Northern California. This California-exclusive single barrel rye is crafted from a mash bill of 90% rye, 5% wheat, and 5% malted barley, emphasizing bold spice and structure. The whiskey was aged for 8 years and 2 months in new American oak barrels with a char level of 3, allowing extended oak interaction while preserving rye-forward intensity. Bottled at barrel strength, this release highlights the individuality of the cask and the distillery’s hands-on approach to long-term aging.

Tasting Notes
Nose: Bold rye spice, cracked pepper, toasted oak, and subtle sweetness.

Palate: Intense rye grain, baking spice, dark honey, and layered oak with a firm, structured mouthfeel.

Finish: Long, warming, and spice-driven with lingering oak, pepper, and toasted grain.

What Makes It Special
Distilled grain to glass in Northern California

Single barrel release — Barrel #2766

Aged 8 years and 2 months

Mash bill: 90% rye, 5% wheat, 5% malted barley

New American oak barrels with char level 3

Bottled at barrel strength (118.8 proof)

California exclusive release

How to Enjoy
Redwood Empire Haystack Needle 8 Year Single Barrel Rye Whiskey Barrel #2766 is best enjoyed neat to experience its full rye intensity and structure. A few drops of water can help open the high-proof profile and balance spice and oak. It also performs well over a single large ice cube for a slower, evolving sip.