As a whiskey enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for new and unique blends to try. Recently, I had the pleasure of tasting Redwood Empire Lost Monarch, a bourbon-rye blend produced by a California distillery. Named after the world’s largest coastal Redwood, this whiskey promises an exceptional balance of sweetness and spice, making it the perfect choice for those who can’t decide between rye or bourbon.
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Redwood Empire Lost Monarch Overview
Redwood Empire Lost Monarch is a blend of bourbon and rye whiskey, aged for no less than 3 years. This whiskey is produced by Redwood Empire Distilling, a California-based distillery that is known for creating whiskeys of distinct character. Lost Monarch is one of the three expressions in their core range, alongside The Pipe Dream Bourbon and the Emerald Giant Rye.
Product History
According to the company website, Lost Monarch is a blend of 60% rye whiskey (95% rye, 5% malted barley, which was aged between 3-5 years) and 40% bourbon whiskey (75% corn, 21% raw rye, and 4% malted barley that was aged between 5 and 12 years). The blend is then aged for an additional period of time to ensure that the flavors are well integrated.
Price Range
As of 2021, the MSRP for Redwood Empire Lost Monarch is $35. However, the price may vary depending on the location and availability. In addition, Redwood Empire also offers a cask-strength version of Lost Monarch, which is priced at around $90 for a 750-mL bottle.
photo credit: redwoodempirewhiskey.com
Tasting Notes
Aroma
Upon opening the bottle, I was greeted with a pleasant aroma of chocolate and caramel. As I poured the Redwood Empire Lost Monarch into my glass, I picked up on some hints of oak and spice, which gave it a bit of complexity. Overall, the aroma was inviting and made me eager to take my first sip.
Flavor
On the palate, the Lost Monarch was smooth and easy to drink. The initial flavors were sweet, with notes of vanilla and brown sugar. As I continued to sip, I noticed a slight spiciness that reminded me of rye. The blend of bourbon and rye was well-balanced, and I appreciated the depth of flavor that it provided.
Finish
The finish on the Lost Monarch was medium in length and left a pleasant warmth in my throat. The sweetness from the initial sip lingered, but it was balanced out by a subtle bitterness that I found enjoyable. Overall, the finish was satisfying and made me want to take another sip.
Rating
I would rate the Redwood Empire Lost Monarch 9 out of 10. It’s not the most complex or unique blend out there, but it’s enjoyable and easy to drink. I appreciated the balance between the sweet and spicy flavors, and I think it would make a great addition to any whiskey collection.
Mixing and Pairing
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Best Mixers
When it comes to mixing Redwood Empire Lost Monarch, I prefer to keep it simple. This whiskey has a well-balanced flavor profile that doesn’t need much to shine. I recommend using high-quality tonic water or ginger ale to create a refreshing and easy-to-make cocktail.
photo credit: redwoodempirewhiskey.com
Cocktail Suggestions
If you’re looking for a cocktail that will highlight the unique flavor of Redwood Empire Lost Monarch, try making a classic Manhattan. To make this cocktail, combine 2 ounces of Lost Monarch with 1 ounce of sweet vermouth and a dash of bitters. Stir with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a cherry and enjoy.
Another great cocktail to try is the Old Fashioned. To make this classic drink, muddle a sugar cube with a few dashes of bitters in a glass. Add 2 ounces of Lost Monarch and stir with ice. Strain into a glass with fresh ice, and garnish with an orange peel.
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Food Pairings
Redwood Empire Lost Monarch is a versatile whiskey that pairs well with a variety of foods. For a savory pairing, try serving it with grilled meats or roasted vegetables. The whiskey’s spicy notes complement the smoky flavors of grilled meats, while its sweetness balances out the bitterness of roasted vegetables.
If you have a sweet tooth, try pairing Redwood Empire Lost Monarch with a dessert like apple pie or chocolate cake. The whiskey’s caramel and vanilla notes complement the sweetness of these desserts, making for a delicious and indulgent pairing.
Conclusion
I highly recommend giving Redwood Empire Lost Monarch a try. It’s a great example of a well-crafted whiskey that is both delicious and environmentally conscious. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey drinker or just starting to explore the world of spirits, this is a bottle that is definitely worth adding to your collection.
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