In a world filled with artisanal spirits, Julie Macklowe has carved out a niche for herself with the launch of her whiskey brand that brings an elevated approach to American single malt. Established in 2019, her brand aims to compete on the same shelf as the world’s most respected scotches. Macklowe’s vision was clear: to create a luxury whiskey experience that embodies the character and boisterous flavor profiles found in traditional Scottish offerings, but with an American twist. With the imminent arrival of her new release, The Macklowe Silver Edition, it seems she is determined to raise the standard for rye whiskey while simultaneously catching the attention of whiskey aficionados and newcomers alike.
Macklowe’s quest for groundbreaking whiskey was fueled by a personal passion for Highland scotch—an affinity she could not sidestep when conceptualizing her products. “I always loved scotch single malt,” she confesses, which highlights the core principle driving her creativity. The Silver Edition reflects this passion, but with the unique twist of being a rye whiskey. Priced at $99 a bottle, this Kentucky straight rye employs an innovative finishing process using ex-American single malt barrels that sets it apart from the offerings currently available on the market.
Macklowe is not just raising the stakes with her blending techniques—she’s also brought in master blender Brendan McCarron, who has a storied career navigating the world of single malts, having worked with esteemed distilleries like Deanston and Bunnahabhain. With their combined skills, they crafted a whiskey that is both innovative and reflective of traditional rye roots.
Diving into the flavor profile of The Macklowe Silver Edition reveals a depth and complexity rarely encountered in rye. The whiskey spent a minimum of four years maturing in new charred American oak before it was transferred to the distinctive ex-single malt casks. This secondary aging process infuses the spirit with a honeyed softness reminiscent of Highland scotch while still maintaining the assertive character one expects from rye. The blend features a mashbill consisting of 95% rye and 5% malted barley, an unusual mix that proves vital in developing its unique flavor profile.
Upon tasting, earthy menthol notes emerge right from the nose and persist throughout the palate, enriched by accents of dill and freshly cracked peppercorn that define its finish. The brilliance of the malted barley shines through as it introduces soft, fruity elements, ultimately making the final experience both robust and exquisitely balanced.
Even more remarkable is the timing of this release, which aligns with the resurgence of high-end rye whiskey within the spirit industry. Macklowe’s debut comes as the rye category—once relegated to dusty shelves—begins to be recognized for its depth and premium potential. This transformation has been propelled by industry leaders like WhistlePig and Michter’s, setting the stage for modern rye bottlings that appeal to both seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers.
Adding fuel to this renaissance, global pop icon Beyoncé has confirmed her own rye launch, named SirDavis, pegged to further popularize this spirit category. The similarity in approach—targeting scotch fans and employing intriguing finishing methods—draws a creative link between Macklowe’s Silver Edition and Beyoncé’s venture. “I’d like to think that Beyoncé was inspired by my product,” Macklowe remarks, revealing an optimistic perspective on industry trends and innovations.
As anticipation builds for The Macklowe Silver Edition, there is excitement surrounding its availability, with planned distribution set for local liquor stores and select high-end restaurants like Jean-Georges in New York City, where Macklowe has partnered with the celebrated chef to present an exclusive limited edition of just 60 bottles. The timing couldn’t be better for whiskey enthusiasts looking to explore new taste profiles in luxury spirits that break the mold of traditional categories.
The Macklowe Silver Edition heralds not just a new flavor of rye but an opportunity for renewed interest and adventure in high-end whiskey. Aiming to attract both seasoned whiskey drinkers and newcomers looking to explore, Macklowe bridges two worlds and solidifies her place as a leader in this renaissance of American whiskey.
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