The Best Spirits of 2016: A Guide to Unforgettable Sips
The tumultuous waves of 2016 demanded nothing short of potent spirits to steady the senses and uplift the soul. Whisky and whiskey, with their undeniable prowess, dominated the shelves alongside vibrant contenders from the world of mezcal, gin, cognac, rum, and cachaça. Each entry offers a narrative, a testament to the year's spirit transformation. Let's dive into the best spirits of 2016 that redefined indulgence and camaraderie.
1. Booker's Rye ($300, Limited Edition)
Booker's Rye is a tribute to the legacy of Booker Noe, the Master Distiller behind Jim Beam. Embodying more than 70% rye, this cask-strength whiskey offers an unmatched boldness with intricate notes of oak, leather, and cherries. Despite its high proof, it surprises with a complex, palatable essence, making it a coveted collector's piece for rye enthusiasts.
2. Novo Fogo Graciosa Cachaça ($35)
As the Rio Olympics put cachaça in the spotlight, Novo Fogo's Graciosa rose to be a crowd favorite. Aged in Brazilian oak, this cachaça melds custard nuances with the richness of oak, coffee, and anise, presenting an evolved taste of this Brazilian classic.
3. Hennessy Master Blender's Selection No. 1 Cognac ($80, Limited Edition)
Marking Yann Fillioux's creative swan song, this unique cognac embraces freedom in blending. With its higher proof, it strikes a delightful balance of sweet plums and apricots with a spicy, woody conclusion, making it a sensorial journey for cognac lovers.
4. Midleton Dair Ghaelach Irish Whiskey ($270)
Embrace Irish heritage with Midleton's Dair Ghaelach. Aged in rare Irish oak, it offers a luscious blend of vanilla and toffee. Its crème brûlée finish ensures a lasting impression, as the distillery continues to preserve Ireland's oak legacy for future connoisseurs.
5. Plantation O.F.T.D. Overproof Dark Rum ($25/1 liter)
This overproof creation, designed for the bold, accommodates a blend of Caribbean rums. It weaves dark, woody flavors with tropical fruits, while making a stalwart statement in any cocktail, especially in a daring Mai Tai.
6. Highland Park Ice Edition Single Malt Scotch Whisky ($300, Limited Edition)
Inspired by Norse mythology, this scotch is a 17-year journey through citrus, ginger, and profound smoke. A collectible dram that promises a mythic, lingering experience with its minimal bottle release.
7. The Revivalist Botanical Gin, Summertide Expression ($36)
Hailing from Pennsylvania, this gin revives the classic juniper essence while adding seasonal botanicals such as jasmine and rose. Perfectly refreshing, especially when paired with tonic or enjoyed simply over ice.
8. Berkshire Mountain Distillers Two Lanterns American Whiskey ($120, Limited Edition)
An inventive distillation from Sam Adams' Boston Lager, this whiskey brims with lychee and hops, marrying the essence of craft beer with whiskey. A symphony for both whiskey and beer aficionados.
9. Creyente Mezcal ($50)
A fusion from Joe Cuervo's fine crafting, this mezcal celebrates its robust, smoke-kissed heritage against a backdrop of citrus and nuts. Whether a novice or an aficionado, its vibrant spirit offers a perfect initiation or conclusion to any tasting journey.
10. Macallan 12 Year Old Double Cask Scotch Single Malt Whisky ($65)
With American oak inflections, Macallan's latest creation harmonizes bourbon-like sweetness with sherry complexity. Spanning from orange peel to vanilla, it revitalizes a classic scotch with contemporary flair.
These spirits encapsulate the resilience and richness of 2016, presenting a spectrum of palates from spicy embers to sweet solace. Cheers to navigating uncertain times with a glass half full.