Over the years, Nicole Austin – General Manager and Distiller at Cascade Hollow Distilling Co. – and Todd Leopold – Founder and Master Distiller at Leopold Bros Distillery – have cultivated a mutual respect not only as peers in the whisky industry but as friends. Fast-forward to 2021, when Todd shared a sample of their trademark Three Chamber Rye with Nicole, he was looking for a partner to collaborate on a new blend to challenge the status quo for rye offerings on the market.
Dubbed the George Dickel x Leopold Bros Collaboration Blend, this union perfectly balances two different styles of rye whisky: Leopold Bros’ celebrated Three Chamber Rye and our George Dickel never-before-released traditional column still rye. The result is a rare, historically inspired blend of straight rye whiskies that is reminiscent of an era when heavy-bodied rye whiskies were served at bars and saloons across America.
“When you look back at official records for Three Chamber Rye Whiskies, they weren’t just sold as is, but they were also blended together with column still whiskies,” said Todd Leopold, Founder at Leopold Bros. “It feels fitting our rare rye release combines this historic style with something new from George Dickel. We hope whisky fans will enjoy this take on an American classic and inspire the resurgence of rare rye whisky.”
“At the core of both George Dickel and Leopold Bros is a shared spirit of commitment to producing quality and distinctly delightful whisky,” said Nicole Austin, General Manager and Distiller at Cascade Hollow Distilling Co. “I’ve been a personal fan of Leopold Bros for years, and it’s why I’m thrilled to collaborate with Todd and his team. I’m also particularly excited this partnership will mark the first time people will be able to enjoy a rye whisky distilled at Cascade Hollow.”
The George Dickel x Leopold Bros Collaboration Blend initially boasts a floral nose of lavender, elderflower and rose balanced by sweet hints of maple syrup, marshmallow and cocoa. On the palate, rosewater, blackberries, caramel, lavender, fig and citrus are present followed by a finish combining earl gray, honey and cocoa. At 100 proof, fans can best enjoy this whisky neat or in a classic cocktail like the Manhattan or Whiskey Sour.
George Dickel x Leopold Bros Collaboration Blend is a highly limited release, one whisky aficionados and collectors will want to get ahold of when they see it. Starting this November, consumers can find the George Dickel x Leopold Bros Collaboration Blend rolling out in select markets across the US for a suggested retail price of $109.99.
No matter how you choose to enjoy the George Dickel x Leopold Bros Collaboration Blend, please remember to drink responsibly.
