Julie Macklowe, an entrepreneur with a passion for whiskey, introduced her eponymous whiskey brand in 2019, aiming to create a high-end luxury American single malt that rivaled scotch. Fast forward to today, Macklowe is set to disrupt the world of rye with the launch of The Macklowe Silver Edition, a non-age-stated Kentucky straight rye priced at $99 per bottle.
The Macklowe Silver Edition stands out from other ryes on the market due to its one-of-a-kind finish in ex-American single malt barrels. This distinctive profile, crafted by master blender Brendan McCarron, offers a new perspective for rye enthusiasts. The whiskey’s maturation process involves aging in new charred American oak barrels before being transferred to casks previously used for Macklowe’s other releases, resulting in a honeyed softness reminiscent of Highland scotch.
Despite being a rye at heart, The Macklowe Silver Edition surprises drinkers with its earthy, menthol notes, and a slow, spice-filled finish featuring dill and cracked peppercorn. The 95% rye and 5% malted barley mashbill delivers a unique balance of flavors, enhanced by the influence of the single malt finish. Macklowe’s innovative idea for the rye’s finish, approved by McCarron, showcases her commitment to creating a product that resonates with the brand’s core values.
The release of The Macklowe Silver Edition comes at a time when high-end rye whiskey is gaining popularity and recognition in the spirits market. Brands like WhistlePig and Michter’s have paved the way for ultra-premium ryes, setting the stage for a “rye-naissance.” The entrance of Beyoncé’s SirDavis rye further highlights the evolving landscape of rye whiskey, with a focus on appealing to scotch aficionados through unique finishing techniques and mashbill variations.
With The Macklowe Silver Edition hitting shelves and Beyoncé’s SirDavis making waves in the market, there is a growing opportunity for new and seasoned whiskey drinkers to explore a diverse range of luxury spirits. Macklowe emphasizes the importance of creating a new taste profile within the rye category, offering consumers a different product experience that was previously unavailable. The collaboration with Jean-Georges, a renowned chef, further solidifies The Macklowe Silver Edition’s presence in the culinary world.
The Macklowe Silver Edition is poised to revolutionize the world of rye whiskey by marrying traditional rye characteristics with innovative finishing techniques inspired by the world of single malt scotch. As consumer tastes continue to evolve, brands like The Macklowe Silver Edition and Beyoncé’s SirDavis are reshaping the luxury whiskey landscape, paving the way for new and exciting flavor experiences. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, The Macklowe Silver Edition promises a journey of discovery for whiskey enthusiasts everywhere.