Old Potrero 18th Century Style Whiskey is the re-creation of the original whiskey of America. This release was distilled in a small copper pot still at the distillery on San Francisco's Potrero Hill, from a mash of 100% rye malt. Rye was the grain of choice for America's first distillers, and using a mash of 100% rye malt produces a uniquely American whiskey. It was found that handmade oak barrels, lightly toasted in the traditional manner, impart a wonderfully subtle flavor to the 18th-century-style American whiskey. In the 18th century, barrels were made by heating the staves over a fire of oak chips, allowing them to be bent and formed into a barrel shape. During this process, the inside of the barrel would become toasted-but not charred. For aging, several uncharred oak barrels were chosen-both new and used-to achieve the balanced complexity that complements this whiskey's traditional heritage.

Nose: When the bottle was first opened the nose was like funky rotting grain in a barn. After the bottle was opened for 3 weeks the nose shifted to pleasant ripe grain with hints of rye spice, a little medicinal odour, and maple sugar. Taste: Extremely intense rye spices with a bit of a sour and sweet alternation of flavours. The taste buds sizzle and pop with pepper, wood sweetness, and alcohol astringency. Finish: Long intense rye flavours simmering on the tongue forever. Balance: This is an experienced drinker's drink. I prefer to drink this neat, even though the company suggests adding water or ice. The more I drink this the more I love it. The flavours are astonishingly intense.