Castle & Key Experimental Series Rye Whiskey is a bold, limited-edition release from the historic Castle & Key distillery in Kentucky. This 2024 edition is finished in Vino de Naranja barrels—Spanish wine casks infused with orange peel—delivering a distinctive fusion of classic rye spice and vibrant citrus character. The mashbill is composed of 63% rye, 17% yellow corn, and 20% malted barley, and the whiskey is bottled at a robust 57.9% ABV.

On the nose, the whiskey offers candied orange peel, toasted oak, nutmeg, and floral honey with herbal rye depth. The palate leads with classic rye spice, black pepper, and baking notes before bright orange zest, honey, caramel, and dried apricot emerge. The finish is long and warming, with lingering spiced orange, dark chocolate, and toasted almonds.

Best enjoyed neat to appreciate the full barrel influence, though it also shines in cocktails such as an Old Fashioned with an orange twist or a Manhattan. Pairs well with roasted duck, spiced chocolate desserts, smoked meats, and charcuterie.