Orphan Barrel Releases First Ever Rye

Diageo’s Orphan Barrel Whiskey Co. has introduced the first ever rye whiskey release, Orphan Barrel Scarlet Shade. This one is dubbed “a born traveler distilled in Indiana, aged to perfection in Kentucky and bottled in Tennessee.”

Presumably, that means it was sourced from MGP’s rye stock. That is a good guess, keeping in mind that Diageo brands Bulleit and George Dickel have sourced their rye through MGP for years. Among other warehouses, Dickel own the famous Stitzel-Weller property in Shively, Kentucky. Since they own Dickel, they naturally have bottling facilities in Tullahoma, Tennessee.

So it’s probably an MGP rye, but a special one, as befits Orphan Barrel releases. Take note that it is a 14 year old, bottled at  90 proof.

“For whiskey fans looking for a Rye with heritage, Scarlet Shade provides the opportunity to add a 14-year-old, incredibly rare offering to their collection,” said Samantha Johnson, Orphan Barrel Scarlet Shade Master Blender. “This latest Orphan Barrel offering is a nod to the journey we are all on and the travelers that we are. I can’t wait to share this unique experience with whiskey enthusiasts and showcase the dedication that went into crafting Scarlet Shade.”

Beginning this May, the new variant will begin rolling out at select spirits retailers across the nation with a suggested retail price of $199.99.