Whipper Snapper
1 year, 40%, Oregon, Rating: 7.5
So far, the furthest west we’ve made it is Colorado (Stranahan’s). Now we’re heading all the way to the West Coast. Ransom’s new “hi-falutin’” whiskey comes in and doesn’t really follow any rules. First off, they start with malted barley, like Scotch, but then go off the chart by mixing in some Kentucky White Dog. Then comes the aging. Some in new American whiskey barrels, some in used barrels, and some, get this, in used pinot noir barrels, aged for about a year and then mixed together to make the best blend.
All this no rules following means one of two things. If you’re a traditionalist, please avoid. However, if you’re up for something new, it’ll give you something to get excited about. The nose is very Scotch heavy. Once it hits the pallet, it transitions quickly from Scotch to amazingly smooth White Dog to a light, slightly bitter, crisp clean finish. I like it.
Straight
The barley rides in first, with the Scotch flavor. It quickly dies away though, making way for other light, enjoyable flavors.Mixed
The uniqueness of Whipper Snapper carries over into a mixed drink. It actually is quite light and refreshing. The Scotch tones come out front, then transitions nicely out and allows the mixer to come forward.