PRE-SALE ITEM – ETA: October 2026 (delays are possible). Any other items in your order will be held and shipped together in one shipment as soon as this bottle arrives.

WhistlePig 12 Year Bespoke Barrel Rye, Maple Crème Brûlée Cask is a limited straight rye whiskey that takes WhistlePig's 12-year-old rye in a deliciously different direction. Built on a high-rye mash bill of 94% rye and 6% malted barley, the whiskey is aged for a full 12 years and then finished in proprietary custom casks that once held maple syrup. Bottled at an easy-sipping 86 proof (43% ABV), it keeps the bold spice and structure that WhistlePig is known for while adding layers of maple, caramelized sugar, and vanilla custard. It's a standout for rye lovers, dessert-finished whiskey fans, and WhistlePig collectors.

What Is the WhistlePig Bespoke Barrel Program?

WhistlePig's Bespoke Barrel releases are limited, custom expressions built from its 12 year rye whiskey program. Each one explores a different barrel finish, letting the distillery show how the same mature rye can change character depending on the cask. This 2026 release turns to maple crème brûlée for a sweet, dessert-inspired counterpoint to rye's natural spice.

A 12 Year Rye Finished in Maple Casks

The whiskey begins with 12 years of maturation, which builds the oak, spice, and grain-driven depth of the rye. It is then finished in proprietary Maple Brûlée casks, custom barrels created from ones that previously aged WhistlePig's own house maple syrup. Only a small number of these casks were produced, which makes this one of the more inventive and limited expressions in the WhistlePig lineup. The finish softens the rye's heat into caramelized sweetness and warm, custard-like richness without losing its backbone.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: maple syrup, vanilla custard, toasted brown sugar, and cinnamon, with rye spice, toasted oak, and a touch of citrus peel.
• Palate: rich and smooth, with brown sugar, caramel, graham cracker, and crème brûlée over warm baking spice and rye character.
• Finish: long and sweet, with lingering burnt maple, torched sugar, vanilla cream, and oak spice.

How to Enjoy WhistlePig Maple Crème Brûlée Cask Rye

Sip it neat to appreciate the maple crème brûlée finish, and let it rest in the glass for a few minutes before tasting. A few drops of water open up the maple, vanilla, and caramel, while a large ice cube gives a slower, softer pour. It also makes a rich base for a Manhattan or Rye Old Fashioned, and pairs beautifully with crème brûlée, bread pudding, pecan pie, dark chocolate, roasted nuts, or a fine cigar.

Why Collectors Want This Bottle

• A limited WhistlePig Bespoke Barrel release aged 12 years.
• Finished in proprietary maple casks that previously aged WhistlePig's house maple syrup.
• High-rye mash bill of 94% rye and 6% malted barley.
• Bottled at 86 proof (43% ABV) for an approachable, dessert-style pour.
• A great gift for whiskey lovers who enjoy sweeter, cask-finished ryes.

Product Details

• Brand: WhistlePig
• Type: Straight rye whiskey, Bespoke Barrel release
• Age: 12 years
• Finish: Maple Crème Brûlée cask
• Mash bill: 94% rye, 6% malted barley
• Size: 750ml
• ABV: 43% (86 proof)
• Release: 2026, limited

Frequently Asked Questions

What is WhistlePig 12 Year Bespoke Barrel Rye Maple Crème Brûlée Cask?

It is a limited 12 year straight rye whiskey from WhistlePig's Bespoke Barrel program, finished in a custom maple crème brûlée cask for a rich, dessert-inspired profile.

What is the alcohol content?

It is bottled at 43% ABV, which is 86 proof.

How old is this whiskey?

It is aged for 12 years as part of WhistlePig's 12 year rye whiskey program.

What is the mash bill?

The mash bill is 94% rye and 6% malted barley, a high-rye recipe that delivers bold spice to balance the sweetness of the maple cask finish.

What makes the finish unique?

The whiskey is finished in proprietary casks that previously held WhistlePig's house maple syrup, which adds maple, caramelized sugar, and vanilla custard notes to the rye.

What is the best way to drink it?

Try it neat first, then experiment with a few drops of water or a large ice cube. It also works well in a Manhattan or Rye Old Fashioned.

Order WhistlePig 12 Year Bespoke Barrel Rye Maple Crème Brûlée Cask from Craft City and add this limited dessert-style rye to your collection.