Rambling Spirit Single Cask Series is a 10-year straight bourbon whiskey distilled in 2016 at Cardinal Spirits in Indiana, featuring a high-rye mash bill of 60% corn, 36% rye, and 4% malted barley. This single cask expression represents the artisanal spirit of Indiana bourbon making, bottled exclusively by Lost Generation Bottling in Bloomington with the founder's signature adorning each bottle.

Cardinal Spirits has carved out a distinctive place in the Indiana whiskey landscape, embracing both tradition and innovation in their approach to bourbon production. The Rambling Spirit Single Cask Series showcases their commitment to exceptional barrel selection, with each cask hand-chosen for its unique character. The inclusion of a QR code linking to a companion playlist reflects the modern, experiential approach that defines this thoughtfully curated release.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Charred oak mingles with warm baking spices, vanilla custard, and hints of dried orange peel from the high-rye influence
• Palate: Rich caramel and toffee give way to black pepper and cinnamon bark, with underlying notes of leather-bound books and toasted grain
• Finish: Long and warming, featuring lingering rye spice, dark chocolate, and a gentle smokiness from well-seasoned American oak

Product Details

Perfect For

• Contemplative evenings: Sipping neat while exploring the companion playlist, letting the high-rye spice unfold slowly
• Bourbon collectors: Single cask expressions with founder signatures represent unique moments in distillery history
• Music and spirits pairing: The curated playlist experience elevates this beyond traditional bourbon tasting
• Indiana whiskey exploration: Discovering the distinctive character of Hoosier bourbon craftsmanship

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Rambling Spirit Single Cask taste like?

Rambling Spirit Single Cask offers a high-rye bourbon profile with pronounced spice notes balanced by rich caramel and vanilla. The 10-year aging brings depth with leather and oak influences, while the 36% rye content provides a distinctive peppery backbone that sets it apart from lower-rye Indiana bourbons.

Is this bourbon good for cocktails or better neat?

This single cask expression shines brightest when sipped neat or with a splash of water to unlock its complexity. The decade of aging and unique single barrel character makes it ideal for contemplative sipping rather than mixing, allowing you to fully appreciate the craftsmanship and barrel selection.

What makes this different from other Cardinal Spirits releases?

The Single Cask Series represents Cardinal Spirits' most selective barrel program, with each bottle coming from a single exceptional cask rather than a blend. The founder's signature, companion playlist, and special bottling by Lost Generation make this a truly unique release that captures a specific moment in the distillery's history.

How should I store and serve this bourbon?

Store upright in a cool, dark place away from temperature fluctuations. Serve neat in a Glencairn or rocks glass at room temperature, allowing 10-15 minutes for the bourbon to open up. The high-rye content means it benefits from a few drops of room temperature water to release additional aromatics.

Is this worth collecting as an investment piece?

Single cask bourbon releases with founder signatures and unique bottling stories often appreciate over time, especially from respected craft distilleries like Cardinal Spirits. The 2016 distillation date, limited nature, and special bottling details make this an interesting addition to any Indiana whiskey collection.

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