Ready for the Unique World of Flavored Whiskeys?
Like their name suggests, flavored whiskey is a type of whiskey that has been infused or blended with natural or artificial flavors. Contrary to what some ‘serious’ whiskey drinkers might tell you, flavored whiskeys are indeed making a big splash in the community. It all started when the big names like Wild Turkey and Jack Daniels added honey into their drinks to make them sweeter. Then others joined in and now, we’re in a flavored-whiskey boom!
But how do distillers create a flavored whiskey? Glad you asked!
To create flavored whiskey, one must infuse or blend the flavors into a base whiskey. There’s several ways to achieve this. Many flavored whiskeys go through a process called infusion, where distillers will use natural ingredients, like fruits or spices, add them to the whiskey and leave it to steep for days or weeks before filtering. Others will blend and mix flavored syrups or extracts with whiskey for consistent results, sometimes allowing the mixture to age briefly. And then there are some rarer cases where distillers age the whiskey in barrels that previously contained flavoring ingredients, subtly imparting those flavors to the whiskey. Each method aims to enhance the whiskey with unique, complimentary tastes.
Now that we know how flavored whiskey is made, let’s talk about some great options available at Spec’s!
Whiskey and… Peanut Butter?
When you think of peanut butter, you probably recall memories of school lunches. Where its’ nutty goodness is paired with a jelly and between two pieces of bread. You might take a pause and try to answer the age-old question “which peanut butter is better? Creamy or crunchy?” But a peanut butter whiskey? We’re pretty sure that was something that never crossed your mind and you probably raised your eyebrows at it in disbelief when you first saw it. We know we did when this nutty nectar first hit our shelves. But we knew and had to try and we’re so glad we did. Its texture is so rich and creamy, and with its sweet and saltiness, creates a smooth, dessert-like drink. After that first sip, we were hooked!
Elvis Whiskey Midnight Snack
This whiskey is a hunka hunka of burning love and is filled with a sweet and salty kick. And just as the King of Rock n Roll would have it, this peanut butter sandwich is bringing its friends, banana and bacon, along for the ride. Giving this whiskey a unique taste that light our morning sky.
Our favorite is a PB&J cocktail that evokes memories of the school lunches of our childhood. All you need to do is mix two parts of this whiskey with one part of Chambord to a rocks glass. Add ice and stir, like you would an Old Fashioned. Then, serve!
Add to cartHave You Tried Orange-Flavored Whiskey?
For years, bartenders and cocktail creators have been putting orange peels in whiskey. It’s even one of the main ingredients in an Old Fashioned. But now, distillers are infusing oranges into some of their whiskeys. These orange-flavored whiskeys feature prominent notes of orange and can range from sweet and juicy to tangy and slightly bitter. They also come with the same vanilla, caramel, and oak flavors normally found in whiskey. With this flavor profile, they can easily be sipped straight or served in cocktails, like an Orange Old Fashioned or Orange Manhattan.
Here’s one of our favorite Orange-Flavored Whiskey. Just don’t be surprised if we ask you “Orange you glad you tried it?” afterwards.
Watkins Spiced Orange
This bourbon’s zesty bite will definitely be one you remember. Made with orange flavor and Watkins’ famous spices, it packs enriching aromas one right after the other. Sweet caramel. Roasted nuts. Spice clove. And, of course, zesty citrus. When you sip, you’ll enjoy full-bodied flavors that are bright and tangy. Like we said, you’ll definitely remember this one. We sure do.
Add to cartOk, What Other Fruit-Flavored Whiskey Do You Recommend?
Basically if you can find a fruit in the produce aisle, odds are there’s been a flavored whiskey made to honor that produce. Lime. Pineapple. Apricot. Pear. The list goes on and on and we have shelves full of fruit-flavored whiskeys. Here’s some of our favorites we think you’d enjoy:
Ole Smoky Salty Watermelon
Nothing brings out watermelon’s sweetness like a sprinkle of salt, and the same can be said for this whiskey. This is a mouth watering, salty sweet combo that has been kicked up a notch with Ole Smoky Whiskey and is the perfect pairing for days spent chilling and grilling.
Add to cart
Howler Head Banana
No, we’re not monkeying around. We’re serious. Banana whiskey. And Howler Head is one of the best around. It’s real Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey aged in American oak barrels and blended together with natural banana flavor. Oh, and did we mention this bananarama goodness is from the mind of UFC CEO, Dana White?
Add to cartAre There Any Other Types of Flavored Whiskeys?
Yes! It’s not just fruit and peanut butter that’s being infused in whiskey. There’s a new trend of meat-infused whiskey that has popped up. Yes, you heard us right. Meat-infused whiskey. At the moment, it’s mostly venison flavored and those who have tried it said it tastes like Christmas dinner and isn’t as gamey as one would imagine.
And don’t forget dessert. There have been many dessert-based whiskeys popping up recently and we are in love with these decadent treats. Particularly this one.
Dough Ball Cookie Dough
This award-winning whiskey is full of the irresistible aroma of grandma’s freshly baked cookies and fills the palette with a bite of chocolate, butter and hints of caramel. Perfect for an after dinner sip, or anytime you want a sweet treat.
Add to cartThese All Sound Delicious! Where Can I Get Them?
At your neighborhood Spec’s, of course! And if you have any other questions, ask a member of our staff. They’ll be more than happy to help!
Cheers to you and cheers to flavored whiskey!
