Flavored whiskies are picking up steam

The aroma of a spirit can be a real fooler. Take the new Jack Daniel’s Winter Jack Tennessee Cider, for example. Nosing a just-poured sample, I could have sworn it was simply a delicate apple cider that would quietly touch my palate and quickly dissipate.

Wrong.

Go to Dowd's Tasting Notes for my take on this new product.

Meanwhile, here's the latest on the flavored whiskey front. Beam Inc. has released a Red Stag Hardcore Cider. It is infused with natural flavors of apple cider and vanilla to target, says the company, “those who haven’t considered bourbon before.”

Other recent flavored spirits releases include Knob Creek Smoked Maple Bourbon, Paddy Irish Whiskey BeeSting and Devil’s Apple, and Smirnoff Wild Honey and Cinna-Sugar Twist.

The new Hardcore Cider joins the Beam portfolio that includes Red Stag Black Cherry, Spiced Cinnamon and Honey Tea.

 “Since its history-making introduction in 2009, Red Stag has helped fuel rapid growth of flavor innovation in the category,” said Chris Bauder, general manager of whiskies at Beam Inc. ” … [T]he Red Stag line … has seen double-digit growth every year.”

 It is bottled at 80 proof (40% abv) and sells for a suggested retail price of $17.99 for the 750ml bottle.