A Legacy Reborn: Old Potrero Toasted Barrel Whiskey
Hotaling & Co. is proud to announce the reintroduction of Old Potrero 18th Century Style Whiskey, now renamed Old Potrero Toasted Barrel Whiskey. Distilled in a small copper pot still from a mash of 100% rye malt, this exquisite whiskey is aged in new, toasted, 24-month air-dried, handmade, extra-fine grain American White Oak barrels for a minimum of 6 years. This refined process pays homage to the traditional methods while ensuring a unique and sophisticated flavor profile.
Celebrating American Independence Day
Old Potrero Toasted Barrel Whiskey will be released on Thursday, July 4, in commemoration of American Independence Day. This release not only celebrates the nation’s history but also acknowledges America’s pioneering role in the craft whiskey distilling industry. The launch is a fitting tribute to the spirit of independence and innovation that defines both the country and the craft.
The Rebirth of Rye Whiskey
Noah Rothbaum, author of The Art of American Whiskey and the forthcoming Whiskey Bible, emphasized the significance of this release: “America’s first great whiskey was rye, originally made in copper pot stills. By the late twentieth century, rye whiskey was nearly extinct. Anchor Distilling, now Hotaling & Co., revived the spirit with the launch of Old Potrero Whiskey, maintaining the tradition of copper pot stills.” This reintroduction underscores the brand’s commitment to preserving and enhancing the legacy of rye whiskey.
Traditional Craftsmanship
18th Century Techniques
Master Distiller Bruce Joseph explained the origins of the original name: “We called it 18th Century Style Whiskey because, in traditional barrel making, the cooper heats the staves over a fire of oak chips to bend and form them into barrels. This process lightly toasts the inside of the barrel. Charred barrels, as we know them today, weren’t introduced until the 19th Century. We are reintroducing Old Potrero Toasted Barrel Whiskey at a much older age than the original, maintaining its unique distinction as the only rye aged entirely in toasted oak barrels.”
Unique Flavor Profile
Old Potrero Toasted Barrel Whiskey, bottled at 51.2% ABV, is known for its rich and complex flavor. The meticulous aging process in toasted oak barrels imparts subtle notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice, creating a well-rounded and memorable tasting experience. Priced at $64.99 for a 700ml bottle, this whiskey offers exceptional value for its quality.
A San Francisco Legacy
Pioneering Spirit
Dan Leese, CEO of Hotaling & Co., highlighted the brand’s enduring legacy: “Our dedication to artisanal spirits began 30 years ago. Today, the Hotaling name remains integral to San Francisco’s drinking culture. Old Potrero Whiskey, like its birthplace, San Francisco, embodies boldness and innovation. Old Potrero Toasted Barrel Whiskey continues to represent our deep connection to the city’s history and the timeless traditions of American whiskey.”
Discover More About Old Potrero
For more information on Old Potrero, visit OldPotrero.com; to learn more about Hotaling & Co., visit HotalingandCo.com.
About Old Potrero
Old Potrero Rye Whiskey stands as a testament to the pioneering spirit and the revival of pot-distilled whiskey in the United States. Created by Fritz Maytag, the visionary behind the craft beer movement and founder of Anchor Brewing and Anchor Distilling Co. (now Hotaling & Co.), Old Potrero whiskies are distilled in small copper pot stills at the Hotaling & Co. Distillery in San Francisco from a mash of 100% rye malt.
