Ragtime Rye Whiskey Applejack Barrel-Finished

When it comes to barrel-aging spirits, the final product will be affected by whatever was previously sequestered in the barrel. Thus you have some Scotch makers using old sherry or bourbon casks. In Brooklyn, Allen Katz’s New York Distilling Company has started giving some of his Ragtime Rye, a whiskey he introduced last fall, a sojourn in barrels that held applejack. His inspiration was George Washington, a distiller of rye who also had a penchant for applejack. The new 100-proof whiskey — for sipping neat or on ice — has a honeyed, spicy aroma and a warm flavor with hints of leather, baked bread and cinnamon.