Metallica’s Blackened Whiskey recently released a new bottle as part of its Masters of Whiskey series, and it may just be their best offering yet. The collaboration behind this release is clearly laid out in the whiskey’s incredibly long name—Blackened x Rabbit Hole Blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys Distilled in Tennessee & Kentucky Finished in Calvados Casks—but a little further explanation might be in order.

Earlier this summer, I had the opportunity to see Metallica perform at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, and it was during this experience that I truly grasped the level of technical skill these guys possess. Playing songs from their extensive back catalogue with precision and near automation, having done this for over 40 years, it became evident that while they may be masters of their craft, their passion and heart still shine through. This same sentiment can be attributed to the individuals responsible for crafting Blackened Whiskey, albeit on a smaller scale.

The late Dave Pickerell played a pivotal role in creating the brand alongside the band, having previously worked on various whiskey projects such as WhistlePig, Hillrock Estate, and Garrison Brothers. Taking over as the Blackened master distiller and blender is Rob Dietrich, who established his reputation at Stranahan’s in Colorado, specializing in single malt whiskey production. Joining him in this collaboration is Kaveh Zamanian, the Bourbon Hall of Fame whiskey maker and founder of Rabbit Hole Distillery in Louisville.

For this particular release, Dietrich and Zamanian expertly selected two distinct whiskeys to blend together. One is a 13-year-old straight Tennessee bourbon with a mashbill consisting of 64 percent corn and 36 percent rye. The other is the Rabbit Hole Heigold High Rye Double Malt Kentucky straight bourbon, featuring a mashbill of 70 percent corn, 25 percent malted rye, and five percent malted barley.

Normally, Blackened Whiskey is a blend of bourbon and rye that undergoes its signature Black Noise process, where low-hertz sound waves are used to enhance the interaction between the wood and whiskey inside the brandy barrels in which it is finished. Interestingly, this new Masters of Whiskey blend deviates from the norm by being finished in calvados casks, a type of French apple brandy. Once again, the whiskey is subjected to the Black Noise treatment—a process the brand stands by, even though some might view it as more of a marketing gimmick, reminiscent of Jefferson’s ocean voyages.

Whether it’s the heavy metal influence, the selection of whiskeys, the choice of casks, or a combination of all these elements, the end result is undeniably delicious. The palate offers a delightful balance of sweetness and spice, with a slight leaning towards the sweeter side. This is not necessarily a bad thing, as the flavors of black pepper, cinnamon, juicy fruit, and apple are beautifully intertwined, culminating in a warm finish. Bottled at cask strength of 106.59 proof, the whiskey packs a punch without being overpowering, and the fact that it is non-chill filtered adds to its appeal.

Cask finishes have become a prevalent trend in the whiskey industry, and their success can vary greatly. In the case of this new Blackened release, the calvados cask finish is executed with artistry and precision. Even if you weren’t previously a fan of Blackened or Metallica, this bottle is definitely worth a try, especially if you enjoy rye whiskey.

In conclusion, the Blackened x Rabbit Hole Blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys Distilled in Tennessee & Kentucky Finished in Calvados Casks is a standout addition to Metallica’s Masters of Whiskey series. With its complex flavors, perfect balance, and unique finishing technique, it deserves recognition and appreciation. So, whether you’re a whiskey connoisseur or just discovering the world of spirits, don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience this exceptional release.

Title: Exploring the Perfect Wine Pairing for Your Steak: A Journey through West Coast Pinot Noirs

Introduction:

Hello, wine enthusiasts! Are you a steak lover who also appreciates a good bottle of wine? Well, you’re in for a treat! Today, we embark on an exciting journey to discover the perfect wine pairing for your beloved steak. Instead of the usual suspects like Cabernet and Malbec, we will be venturing into the world of West Coast Pinot Noirs. So buckle up, grab a glass, and let’s dive into this unique and tantalizing wine adventure!

The Quest for the Perfect Pairing:

Picture this: a perfectly seared steak, sizzling on your plate, ready to be enjoyed. But the question remains, which wine will elevate this culinary experience to new heights? While the conventional wisdom suggests reaching for a bold Cabernet or robust Malbec, we propose an alternative path – exploring the intricate and nuanced world of West Coast Pinot Noirs.

Unleashing the Pinot Noirs:

Pinot Noir, often associated with cooler climates, is renowned for its delicate flavors and smooth texture. Our journey begins on the crisp shores of the West Coast, where the terroir influences the grapes, lending unique characteristics to the wines produced here.

The Wine Selections:

1. Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir – Our first stop takes us to the Sonoma Coast, known for its maritime influence and fog-kissed vineyards. Here, we discover a Pinot Noir that captivates with its vibrant acidity, bright red fruit flavors, and subtle earthy undertones.

2. Anderson Valley Pinot Noir – As we venture further north to Mendocino County, we encounter the Anderson Valley, home to Pinot Noirs with a distinct personality. Here, you’ll find wines that display remarkable balance, with notes of black cherry, forest floor, and a touch of spice.

3. Willamette Valley Pinot Noir – Crossing state lines into Oregon’s Willamette Valley, we find wines that exhibit elegance and finesse. These Pinot Noirs offer a beautiful medley of red fruit aromas, refined tannins, and a touch of herbal freshness.

4. Santa Barbara County Pinot Noir – Heading south to Santa Barbara County, we stumble upon bold and expressive Pinot Noirs. With an influence from both cool ocean breezes and warmer inland climates, the wines here showcase a delightful combination of ripe fruit, vibrant acidity, and refined tannins.

The Perfect Harmony:

Now, let’s explore why these West Coast Pinot Noirs make exceptional companions for your succulent steak. Unlike bold and robust reds that can overpower the flavors of the meat, Pinot Noir’s delicacy allows it to dance harmoniously with the steak, enhancing its natural flavors rather than competing with them. The wines’ acidity and subtle earthiness act as a perfect counterbalance to the rich juices and charred goodness.

Conclusion:

As our wine adventure through the West Coast comes to an end, we hope you’re inspired to venture beyond the expected and discover the wonders of pairing your steak with a West Coast Pinot Noir. These elegant wines offer a sensory journey that heightens both the dining experience and the appreciation of the art of winemaking. So, the next time you’re enjoying a juicy steak, remember to raise a glass of carefully chosen Pinot Noir and savor the magic that unfolds on your palate. Cheers to new culinary horizons!