Copperworks Urban Family Barleywine Cask Special Release is an American Single Malt Whiskey bottled at 100 proof, crafted from a five-malt recipe and finished for nine months in Urban Family Barleywine casks. This single cask release represents the innovative spirit of Seattle's craft distilling scene, where Pacific Northwest grain meets the city's renowned brewing heritage in a marriage of malt and barrel.
From the heart of Seattle's industrial district, Copperworks Distilling Co. has carved out a reputation for American Single Malt excellence, drawing from the region's craft malt tradition and pure Cascade mountain water. This special collaboration with Urban Family Brewing showcases the distillery's experimental approach, where three years of new American oak aging gives way to nine months of barleywine cask finishing, creating layers of complexity that speak to both whiskey and beer craftsmanship.
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Honey-glazed barley bread, dried stone fruits, toasted almonds, vanilla oak, subtle hop bitterness
- Palate: Rich malty sweetness, caramelized sugar, dark chocolate, roasted coffee beans, warming spice
- Finish: Medium to long finish with lingering barleywine complexity, oak tannins, sweet grain, gentle heat
Product Details
| Spirit Type | American Single Malt Whiskey |
|---|---|
| ABV | 50.0% (100 Proof) |
| Volume | 700ml |
| Age Statement | NAS (3 years new oak + 9 months barleywine cask) |
| Distillery | Copperworks Distilling Co. |
| Region | Seattle, Washington |
| Mash Bill | Five Malt |
| Barrel Type | Urban Family Barleywine Cask Finish |
| Release | Single Cask (Bottle 1 of 200) |
Perfect For
- Craft Spirit Enthusiasts: Collectors seeking unique American Single Malt expressions
- Neat Sipping: Evening contemplation with the complexity of barleywine finishing
- Brewery Collaborations: Appreciating the intersection of distilling and brewing crafts
- Pacific Northwest Pride: Celebrating Seattle's innovative spirit scene
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Copperworks Urban Family Barleywine Cask taste like?
This American Single Malt offers rich malty sweetness balanced with the complexity of barleywine cask finishing. The five-malt recipe creates a foundation of honey-glazed barley and toasted nuts, while the Urban Family barleywine cask adds layers of caramelized sugar, dark chocolate, and subtle hop character. The result is a uniquely American expression that bridges whiskey and beer traditions.
Is this whiskey good for cocktails?
While this special release can certainly be used in cocktails, its single cask rarity and complex barleywine finishing make it ideal for neat sipping. The 100 proof strength and unique flavor profile would work well in spirit-forward cocktails like Old Fashioneds, but many enthusiasts prefer to experience its distinctive character undiluted.
How should I drink Copperworks Urban Family Barleywine Cask?
This whiskey is best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water to open up the complex interplay between the five-malt base and barleywine cask influence. Serve in a Glencairn glass at room temperature to fully appreciate the aromatic complexity from both the distilling and brewing heritage. The 100 proof strength provides enough intensity to carry the flavors without overwhelming heat.
What makes this release special?
This is a single cask release limited to just 200 bottles, making it highly collectible. The collaboration with Urban Family Brewing creates a unique finishing process where the whiskey gains additional complexity from barleywine-seasoned wood. The combination of Copperworks' five-malt recipe with this innovative finishing represents the cutting edge of American Single Malt experimentation.
What is similar to this Copperworks release?
For similar American Single Malt experiences, consider other Pacific Northwest distilleries like Westland or Dry Fly, though few offer barleywine cask finishing. The malty character might appeal to fans of Scotch single malts, while the innovative cask finishing aligns with experimental American whiskeys like those from New Riff or Laws Whiskey House.
You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.