🥃 WhistlePig Farmstock Rye Crop No. 002: A True Taste of Vermont Craftsmanship
If you’re a whiskey enthusiast always on the hunt for something that tells a story in every sip, WhistlePig Farmstock Rye Crop No. 002 should be high on your radar.
Crafted with precision and passion on a 500-acre farm in Shoreham, Vermont, this expression from WhistlePig Whiskey isn’t just another bottle on the shelf—it’s a full-bodied tribute to American farm-to-bottle innovation. Bottled at 43% ABV, it brings together bold flavor, thoughtful blending, and an unmistakable sense of place.
Let’s explore what makes this rye so unique, and why Crop No. 002 might be your next favorite pour.
🌾 A Farm-to-Bottle Story Worth Savoring
WhistlePig isn’t your typical distillery. Rather than sourcing everything from third-party producers, they grow their own rye grain, use water from their land, and even age the spirit in custom Vermont oak barrels made from trees grown on their estate.
The Farmstock line, particularly Crop No. 002, is a shining example of this commitment. It’s a blend of three distinct rye whiskeys:
WhistlePig’s own estate-grown rye (20% of the blend), aged 2 years in Vermont oak.
A 6-year aged rye sourced from Indiana (45%).
A 10-year aged rye from Canada (35%).
The result? A beautiful balance between youthful vibrancy and aged complexity—a profile that evolves with every sip.
🔍 Alcohol Content: 43% ABV (86 Proof)
The Alcohol by Volume (ABV) of 43% strikes a sweet spot—strong enough to carry the spice and depth expected from a rye whiskey, but smooth enough for both new and seasoned drinkers.
Compared to other high-ABV rye whiskeys that often exceed 50%, WhistlePig Crop No. 002 is more approachable without sacrificing richness or warmth.
👃 Aroma: A First Impression of the Fields
As soon as you open the bottle, the nose greets you with inviting and layered aromas:
Sweet caramel
Vanilla bean
Fresh-baked rye bread
Hints of citrus zest and light floral notes
The grain-forward scent is unmistakable—it smells like a distillery tour in the middle of a rye field.
🥃 Tasting Notes: Layered and Balanced
✅ First Sip:
On the palate, this rye delivers soft vanilla and honey upfront, gently unfolding into a wave of baking spices and toasted oak. That signature rye kick is present but not overpowering.
✅ Mid-Palate:
You’ll notice the 6-year Indiana rye bringing depth with toffee and dried fruit, while the 10-year Canadian rye smooths things out with mature oaky tones and a touch of dark chocolate.
✅ Finish:
Long, warm, and slightly peppery. It finishes with hints of leather, maple, and a whisper of orange peel—lingering just enough to invite another sip.
🥂 Best Ways to Enjoy WhistlePig Crop No. 002
This rye is versatile and can be enjoyed in a number of ways depending on your mood or occasion:
| Style | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Neat | Shows off the balance of spice and sweetness |
| With a splash of water | Opens up hidden layers of citrus and oak |
| On the rocks | Smooths out the heat and accentuates caramel notes |
| In a classic cocktail | Excellent in an Old Fashioned or Manhattan |
🥃 How It Compares: Crop No. 001 vs. No. 002
Crop No. 002 improved upon the first Farmstock release by:
Increasing the amount of aged whiskey in the blend
Reducing the youthful edge of the estate-distilled rye
Enhancing overall balance and drinkability
Many whiskey reviewers agree that No. 002 hits a sweet spot in the Farmstock journey, delivering both terroir and polish.
📦 Bottle Sizes & Packaging
Standard bottle size: 750ml
Label design: Clean, rustic, and premium—featuring a farmstead sketch and detailed batch information
Cork top: Yes
The bottle itself is a nod to farm life—minimalist yet luxurious, just like the whiskey it holds.
🌟 Why It Stands Out
WhistlePig Farmstock Rye Crop No. 002 is more than just a whiskey—it’s a philosophy in a bottle. Here’s what sets it apart:
🧑🌾 Farm-to-bottle production
🥃 Expert blending of youthful and aged ryes
🌱 Sustainable craftsmanship with estate-grown grain and wood
🧪 Distinct character without overproof aggression
It’s the kind of spirit that whiskey nerds can analyze, yet casual drinkers can instantly enjoy.
🧠 Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a bottle that tells a story from the soil to the glass, WhistlePig Farmstock Rye Crop No. 002 delivers. At 43% ABV, it offers a perfectly balanced experience: spicy yet smooth, young yet wise.
Ideal for sipping, gifting, or upgrading your cocktail game, this bottle belongs on the shelf of anyone who appreciates artisanal American whiskey.
So go ahead—pour yourself a dram, breathe in the Vermont countryside, and enjoy a whiskey that speaks volumes.
Cheers! 🥃
