Pinhook’s Third Collaboration Series Whisky Is From Australia and Was Blended With the Help of a Renowned Sommelier

(Photo: Pinhook Bourbon)

On Tuesday, Pinhook Bourbon unveiled the third release in its annual Collaboration Series. This time around, the American non-distilling producer teamed up with Starward, the popular Australian distiller that ages all of its whiskies in red wine casks (a smart choice, considering Australia’s celebrated wine scene), and award-winning sommelier Jordan Salcito.

Pinhook co-founder and Master Blender Sean Josephs and Salcito blended this whisky together from 28 barrels comprising four different styles of Starward single malt. The finished product is a 114.8-proof single malt whisky that was aged for four to five years in red wine barrels in Melbourne, Australia.

Salcito has a storied career in the wine world. She has worked at respected restaurants including Restaurant Daniel, Eleven Madison Park, and Momofuku, where her wine list was named the “Most Original Wine List in the World” by World of Fine Wine Magazine. Salcito is also the founder of Ramona, a canned sparkling wine and spritz brand.

Pinhook’s Collaboration Series Edition No. 3 has a suggested retail price of $99.99 and is available from select U.S. retailers, as well as Pinhook’s website and Breeze, Pinhook’s text-to-buy platform (833-332-2118).

Pinhook kicked off its Collaboration Series in 2021 by working with André Hueston Mack, the founder of Maison Noir Wines. The following year, Pinhook teamed up with Garrett Oliver, Brooklyn Brewery brewmaster and James Beard award-winner, for the second release.

Pinhook Collaboration Series No. 3 Australian Single Malt Whisky Tasting Notes, Via the Brand

Nose: Poached pear, vanilla curd, cardamom and light cedar

Taste: Raspberries, wild honey, clove and graham cracker