Raconteur Rye - Batch II - "Brazen"

After the successful launch of Raconteur Rye in May 2024, decisions were in order. We knew a second batch could be fashioned similarly, as the original components lie slumbering in WoodWork Collective’s warehouse. But, should we repeat the process and strive for consistency or push the established flavor profile into new frontiers?

Nature, it seems, had a plan of its own.

This summer’s extraordinary “heat dome” effect left its mark not only on the landscape, but on the barrels resting in warehouses across Kentucky. As we sampled from the whiskey destined for the second batch of Raconteur Rye, we noticed subtle, yet remarkable changes. For lack of a better phrase, everything was “dialed up” – the vanilla and caramel notes were darker, the fruit notes were richer, and the oak backbone was strengthened in both structure and spice. Seizing on the opportunity, Batch 1’s formula was carefully revised.

The initial result was an impressively robust spirit – one that not only accentuated the heavier components of Batch 1, but offered an entirely new level of complexity. All that was left to refine was its balance. While some producers might accomplish this task via dilution or the addition of lighter, sweeter whiskey, we opted for a brazen approach. Instead of taming or softening the darker elements, we bolstered them with older whiskey and choice cooperage. Balance was then achieved with the final blend spending additional time in Mizunara casks that previously held 17-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

The second batch of Raconteur Rye carries the name “Brazen” on its label, not as an assertion of boldness, but as a reminder that every whiskey has a unique story to tell. Typically, producers bend and shape that story to align with a predetermined flavor profile. But every once in a while, if we as blenders listen to our palates and trust in Mother Nature, astonishing things can happen. That’s what Brazen means to us, and we can’t wait to share its story with you.

Raconteur Rye is to be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, in a cocktail, or however you appreciate your whiskey. But regardless of your preference, always enjoy it responsibly.

Curated by David Jennings and The WoodWork Collective. Distilled in Indiana. Aged in Indiana and Kentucky. Bottled by The WoodWork Collective, Louisville, Kentucky.

Recipe: 95% rye, 5% malted barley
Age: 7 years
Finishing Time: 9 months
ABV/Proof: 61.37%/122.74
Volume: 750ml
Yield: 1,000 bottles