Do you believe you have consumed enough spirits endorsed by celebrities to last a lifetime? You have not yet, possibly because you were unaware that actor William H. Macy had become the “spokesdude” for Woody Creek Distillers in Colorado. The most recent offering from the distillery is William H. Macy Reserve Straight Rye Whiskey, an aptly named ten-year-old expression that stands as the eldest to date.
In the spring of 2013, the inaugural rye whiskey casks were laid down at Woody Creek Distillers, established in 2012. The new Macy Reserve is a bottled-in-bond whiskey crafted from a mashbill of 80% rye and 20% malted barley. It is at least four years old, has a proof of 100, and is the product of a single distillery and distillation season. According to co-founder Mark Kleckner, Macy himself sampled and adored the whiskey casks from which it originated; this experience inspired the group to produce this offering.
Macy asserts that rye whiskey occupies a unique position in his affections. “It was only natural that it was my first taste of whiskey, given that my parents had always stored a bottle of rye in a cabinet beneath our kitchen sink,” he stated. “The individuals at Woody Creek are perpetually innovating and possess an incredible assortment of one-of-a-kind barrels.” I discovered I had an aptitude while sampling a considerable number of them; therefore, I did not need to deceive the other tasters. After testing the barrel, I had a revelation that was my favorite. I previously believed enchantment existed in the universe; I now understand it. “Being the proud owner of Macy Reserve, I wish for its patrons the same pleasure that I have.”
The official tasting notes describe Clove, raisin, and cinnamon fragrances. One will find hazelnut and baking spice flavors on the palate, and the aftertaste will be dry with a hint of smoke. The inaugural offering of the Woody Creek Barrel Select initiative is Macy Reserve. Subsequent releases will be selected from the distillery’s 5,000 casks of exceptional quality. The whiskey is presently available for purchase on the website for $200. As of December 1st, it will also be available at select merchants in California, Colorado, and New York. Additional expressions, such as the gin, are offered via ReserveBar.
