Fielden Harvest 2019 Rye Whisky

Fielden Harvest 2019 Rye Whisky is the first edition in the distillery’s annual Harvest series, created to explore how individual growing seasons influence its heritage grains and ultimately the character of the whisky. The 2019 vintage refers to the year in which the grains were grown and harvested. A dry, warm spring followed by a mild, wet summer produced grain described by Fielden as bright and delicate in character.

The whisky was produced from 73% rye, 18% wheat and 9% malted barley grown across Oxfordshire, Berkshire, Gloucestershire and Norfolk. Two grain recipes were used, including Fielden’s classical 70% rye, 20% wheat and 10% malted barley recipe alongside a 100% rye recipe comprising 75% raw rye and 25% malted rye. Following fermentation, the spirit was double distilled using pot and column stills.

The resulting spirits were matured across nine casks for a minimum of 38 months. The maturation comprised 37.5% used American oak, 37.5% American STR casks, 12.5% Sauternes and 12.5% Ramandolo. After maturation, the whisky underwent an 82-day marrying period and was gradually reduced to 50% ABV. A total of 2,680 bottles were produced.

Tasting Notes by Fielden:
Nose: Roses and herbs with fresh ginger, apricot and a little butter.
Palate: Refreshing herbs and delicate summer fruits, soft pastries: brioche bun, cream and warming apple crumble.
Finish: A pinch of white pepper and fresh thyme.