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Southward First Cask Rye is a limited-release Wellington rye whisky matured for four and a half years in a former Pinot Noir barrel. Bottled at 45.7% ABV, it combines rye spice with rich red fruit, toasted oak and a warming finish.
First Cask Rye marks Southward Distilling’s first whisky release and what the producer describes as Wellington’s first whisky. Distilled in Wellington, the rye whisky spent four and a half years maturing in a former Pinot Noir barrel.
The single-cask maturation brings together the naturally spicy character of rye with the influence of the former wine barrel. Rich red-fruit notes are joined by toasted oak, cherry and warming spice, creating a distinctive New Zealand rye whisky with clear Pinot Noir cask influence.
Only 400 bottles were drawn from the single cask, with no blending involved, making First Cask Rye a limited release that marks the beginning of Southward’s whisky programme. The producer recommends enjoying it neat or over ice.
| Category | New Zealand Rye Whisky / Single Cask Whisky |
| ABV % | 45.7% |
| Bottle Size/s: | 700mls |
| Price % | $155.00 |
| Tasting Notes/Botanicals Used | Rye spice and rich red-fruit character lead the profile, followed by toasted oak and cherry. The Pinot Noir cask contributes additional fruit depth, while oak and warming spice carry through to a long, warm finish. |
| Recommended Mixers | Soda water, premium dry ginger ale or ginger beer. |
| Recommended Garnishers | Orange peel, fresh cherry or dehydrated orange. |