Blackened "The Golden State" Cask Strength Whiskey

A California limited edition of Blackened’s signature “Black Noise-aged” Whiskey finished in Black Brandy casks.

A few years ago, legendary the late master distiller Dave Pickering cut a deal to partner with the Hard Rock band Metallica. The new Spirit would be a product of Sweet Amber Distilling Co. based in Mineville, New York. The master’s reins have been picked up by master distiller and blender Rob Dietrich — formerly of Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey. Currently, the team has a single product line called Blackened Whiskey.

Blackened has been doing a series of geo-targeted limited editions. Blackened "The Golden State" Cask Strength Limited Edition pay tribute to California. Like the rest of the line, it is a blend of Bourbons and Ryes abed a minimum of eight years. After the Spirits are married, the combined Whiskey is finished in Black Brandy casks while being exposed to their proprietary Black Noise agitation that encourages more of the Spirit to flow in and out of the wood, enhancing the flavor. The final Spirit is bottled at full cask strength of 58.7% ABV.

It’s “supposed” to be only available in California. But like Metalica, we’re not good at following rules… especially when it comes to Whiskey.

Smartass Corner:
Black Noise is a trademarked technique to keep barrels of Spirit in constant agitation using ultra low-frequency subwoofers. In this case, the sound comes from a custom Metallica playlist chosen for each release by members of the band.