Classification: Straight Rye Finished in an ex-Vermouth Cask
Company: Lost Lantern
Distillery: Dad’s Hat Pennsylvania Rye
Release Date: June 8, 2022
Proof: 120
Age: 4 Years, Finished for 5 Months
Mashbill: 80% Rye, 15% Malted Barley, 5% Malted Rye
Color: Dark Rust
MSRP: $110 (2022)
Strawberry jam | Apricot | Spearmint | Bubble gum | Oak
Dark grape | Cinnamon | Citrus peel | Cardamom | French oak
Baking spice | Mild tannic oak | Light spearmint aftertaste | Slightly bitter & dry aftertaste
Vermouth has slowly been becoming a more popular finishing agent for American whiskey. Although not the most polarizing of flavors, depending on if it's dry or sweet, it can often come across as tart or bitter. As such, it is often used as an ingredient in cocktails adding layers of depth. This depth is produced by the wide array of methods vermouth is made, which can include roots, bark, herbs, and botanicals. On paper, it definitely sounds like a great way to finish a whiskey.
Where Lost Lantern 2022 Single Cask 8: Dad’s Hat Rye hit like a freight train at 127 proof, this 120 proof Dad’s Hat Rye Finished in a Vermouth Cask is very manageable. Because of this, its array of flavors are more distinguable and digestible. The whiskey’s rye heritage takes more of a back seat here, as the vermouth finish is more of the star, while using its rye base as a foundation. The palate is nicely layered with a myriad of dark and earthy notes. The finish is less so, and constrained by slightly more bitter and dry notes. As manageable as they are, they’re impossible to ignore, but thankfully you acclimate to them with subsequent sips. This won’t be for everyone, but those who enjoy Negroni or Manhattan cocktails should be right at home. With that, this Lost Lantern Dad’s Hat Rye Finished in a Vermouth Cask makes an excellent companion with the non-finished offering.