Redwood Empire The Lost Monarch is a small batch American whiskey that marries straight rye whiskeys and straight bourbon whiskeys, aged at least 3 years in the temperate climate of Northern California's coast. At 45% ABV, this exceptional blend delivers remarkable balance and complexity, drawing inspiration from the world's largest coastal redwood by volume — a towering 321-foot giant in Grove of Titans, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park.

Named after the majestic Lost Monarch redwood, this whiskey embodies the patient artistry of Corning & Company Distillers in Northern California. The coastal climate's gentle influence allows for slow, even extraction of flavors from the barrels, creating a whiskey that reflects both the boldness of rye and the sweetness of bourbon. Like the ancient giants that inspire its name, this blend represents time, patience, and the profound connection between place and spirit.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Warm honey, toasted oak, black pepper spice, dried orange peel, vanilla cream
• Palate: Caramel and toffee sweetness, rye spice bite, charred oak, cinnamon bark, dark chocolate
• Finish: Medium length with lingering spice, oak tannins, and a touch of coastal sea salt

Product Details

Perfect For

• Contemplative evenings: Sipping neat while watching the fog roll in from the Pacific
• Campfire gatherings: Sharing stories under the towering canopy of ancient trees
• Whiskey exploration: Discovering the unique character of California coastal aging
• Classic cocktails: Adding complexity to Old Fashioneds and Manhattans

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Redwood Empire The Lost Monarch taste like?

The Lost Monarch offers a harmonious balance between the spicy bite of straight rye whiskey and the sweet, caramel notes of bourbon. The Northern California coastal aging imparts subtle complexity with notes of honey, toasted oak, and a distinctive hint of sea salt on the finish. It's neither too sweet nor too spicy, making it approachable for both bourbon and rye whiskey enthusiasts.

Is The Lost Monarch good for cocktails?

Yes, The Lost Monarch excels in classic whiskey cocktails. Its balanced profile of rye spice and bourbon sweetness makes it ideal for Old Fashioneds, Manhattans, and Whiskey Sours. The 45% ABV provides enough backbone to stand up to mixers while maintaining its distinctive character. The coastal aging adds subtle complexity that elevates traditional cocktail recipes.

How should I drink Redwood Empire The Lost Monarch?

The Lost Monarch is best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to open up its complex flavors. Serve it in a Glencairn glass or rocks glass at room temperature. The blend's balanced nature also makes it excellent on the rocks, where slight dilution enhances the interplay between rye spice and bourbon sweetness. Allow it to breathe for a few minutes to fully appreciate the coastal aging influence.

What makes Northern California whiskey aging unique?

Northern California's temperate coastal climate creates ideal conditions for slow, even whiskey maturation. Unlike the extreme temperature swings of Kentucky or Tennessee, the consistent, moderate temperatures allow for gentle extraction of flavors from the wood. This results in exceptional balance and complexity without harsh edges, producing whiskeys that showcase both the grain character and barrel influence in perfect harmony.

What is similar to The Lost Monarch?

If you enjoy The Lost Monarch, you might appreciate other blended American whiskeys like High West American Prairie or Redemption High Rye Bourbon. The balanced rye-bourbon blend also appeals to fans of wheated bourbons like Maker's Mark or rye-forward spirits like Bulleit Rye. The coastal aging gives it a unique character that sets it apart from traditional Kentucky or Tennessee whiskeys.

You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.