Whiskey Review: Alternate Takes Volume 3 | Dogfish Head Distilling Co.

By Bob Barnes
Dogfish Head Distilling Co. Alternate Takes Volume 3 Whiskey

By: Dogfish Head Distilling Co.
Origin: Milton, Delaware, USA
Suggested retail price: $55 for 750 ml
ABV: 45%

Dogfish Head has distinguished itself as one of the top craft breweries in the U.S. and expanded into the spirits world with the opening of its Dogfish Head Distilling Company in 2015.

The third release out of its Alternate Takes Series (a lineup of premium, experimental whiskeys), a 90-proof limited-edition whiskey, is distilled from 100% pale malt and finished for 36-plus months in freshly emptied Dogfish Head American oak apple brandy barrels and Angry Orchard French oak apple cider barrels. Intricate complexities from the aging process include aromas of cinnamon and wildflower honey paired with flavor notes of fresh green apples, roasted chestnut and buttery, dry oaked Chardonnay.

The Alternate Take Series name is a nod to analog-aged musicians, who were known for recording various unique takes until a great record emerged. “Our Alternate Takes whiskey series is an ode of sorts to the mad chemistry of R&D distilling,” said Sam Calagione, Dogfish Head Founder & Brewer. “Just like music, our off-centered concoctions are boundless, and each alternate take is another piece of the artistic journey.”

> For more information, visit the Dogfish Head Distilling official website.