A new round of trial whiskies are set to hit the shelves in Utah soon. These trial releases are a great opportunity for locals to explore new flavors and help determine which ones will become permanent fixtures in the state’s selection. The upcoming lineup includes three new choices: Uncle Nearest Green Tennessee Whiskey, Jim Beam Winter Reserve, and PiggyBack Rye Pig Head Pour VAP.
A few time a year, Utah will release trial whiskies at select Utah stores. They do this to determine if they want to include them as one of their general distributed products. Make sure to purchase any whisky that you want to make a permanent fixture of Utah’s shelves. Let’s dive into what makes each of these bottles worth checking out!
1. Uncle Nearest Green Tennessee Whiskey
First on the list is Uncle Nearest Green Tennessee Whiskey, a name that honors one of the most important yet underappreciated figures in American whiskey history—Nathan “Nearest” Green. He was a formerly enslaved man who taught Jack Daniel the art of distilling, leaving an enduring legacy in the whiskey world. Uncle Nearest Whiskey, produced in Tennessee, has gained a reputation for its meticulous attention to quality and heritage.
For this trial release in Utah, we can expect the signature Tennessee whiskey experience. Uncle Nearest Green is known for its charcoal filtering (a process called the Lincoln County Process), which results in a smooth and mellow profile. On the nose, you’ll likely pick up notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. The palate often brings flavors of toffee, dried fruits, and a hint of spice, rounded out by a velvety finish.
2. Jim Beam Winter Reserve
Jim Beam is a household name in the whiskey world, and their seasonal releases always generate excitement. The upcoming Jim Beam Winter Reserve is specially crafted to be enjoyed during the colder months, embodying the warmth and comfort we seek in wintertime drams.
Jim Beam Winter Reserve is expected to be a bourbon with a twist, featuring rich notes that complement the winter season. This expression might offer a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove on the nose, reminiscent of holiday baking. On the palate, anticipate a warming spice profile, with caramel, vanilla, and oak playing key roles, followed by a smooth, lingering finish.
3. PiggyBack Rye Pig Head Pour VAP
Last but certainly not least is the PiggyBack Rye Pig Head Pour VAP. PiggyBack Rye comes from the innovative minds at WhistlePig, known for their high-quality rye whiskies. This trial release in Utah promises to deliver a bold and robust rye experience with a playful edge.
PiggyBack Rye Pig Head Pour VAP (Value Added Pack) is crafted from 100% rye grain, distilled and aged to perfection, resulting in a whiskey that packs a flavorful punch. Expect a nose brimming with hints of spice, orchard fruits, and honey. On the palate, PiggyBack Rye delivers strong notes of baking spices, dark chocolate, and caramel, balanced by a peppery kick typical of a well-made rye. The finish is long, with lingering spice and a hint of citrus zest.
Summary
These three trial whiskies offer something for every palate. From the rich history of Uncle Nearest Green Tennessee Whiskey, the seasonal warmth of Jim Beam Winter Reserve, to the bold spiciness of PiggyBack Rye Pig Head Pour VAP, there’s plenty to explore. Keep an eye out for these bottles as they make their way to Utah shelves, and be sure to grab a bottle or two to help decide which of these might become a permanent addition to the state’s whiskey selection. Happy tasting!
