Charbay R5 Hop Flavored Whiskey

Made from Beer?

Charbay is a small distillery from Napa County, nestled in the heart of California wine country. The family prides itself on being one of the early pioneers of modern American craft spirits movement. They began distilling in 1983 after their founder Miles Karakasevic emigrated to US and haven’t looked back, carrying on the family’s heritage of fermenting & distilling that dates back to 18th century Balkans. Miles is already a 12th generation master distiller. He knows a thing or two about crafting a decent Spirit — decent being the understatement of the year.

Their product line includes a whole range of different brews, from Vodka, Gin, Rum, Tequila and Whiskey. The Karakasevic family is set on constant innovation and modification when it comes to the production of Spirits. Their Whiskey line is especially interesting since they manufacture their firewater from bottle-ready, fully matured beer. This interesting peculiarity was conceived by Miles’ son Marko, who is actually the main master distiller at Charbay nowadays.

The Charbay R5 Hop Flavored Whiskey is indeed Charbay’s second line of "hop flavored Whiskey." Their first attempt at hopped Whiskey was distilled from a pilsner, but for the present one they used a batch of Bear Republic’s Racer 5 IPA, a full bodied craft Beer that is made from American ale and crystal hops. Marko double distilled 6000 gallons of Beer for 10 days straight to create just 590 gallons of Whiskey! This bottle may cost a pretty penny, but you can see why. The Spirit is aged in French oak for 29 months and bottled at 49,5% ABV.

This dram is something else entirely. So much personality. A rough and aggressive flavor profile like you’ve never experienced before. Tone it down with a splash of water and it becomes smooth and delicate, with even more aromas being released. Whatever you prefer. One can only do it so much justice by describing it, this one you just have to taste for yourself. Hop on, give it a try, life is brewtiful!