Stranahan’s Founder’s Release is a limited-edition American single malt created to mark the brand’s 20th anniversary. The whiskey was developed by head blender Justin Aden in collaboration with founder Jess Graber. Made from 100% malted barley, it is initially aged 8 to 11 years in new charred American oak. A portion is then finished 1 to 4 years in ex-bourbon and blonde ale casks for a total maturation of about 12 years.
Bottled at 60% ABV (120 proof), it typically retails for $199.
The first sip is semi-creamy, with the consistency of full-sugar root beer. Maybe that’s flavor by association, as initial tastes carry the smallest influence of sassafras. But it’s predominantly spiced, sweet, and borderline effervescent, reminiscent of cola with some added kick. (Both Coca-Cola Cinnamon and Coca-Cola Spiced come to mind, for fans of limited edition sodas.)