Review: High West x Casa Noble The Noble Share Rye
In December 2024, Constellation Brands unveiled The Noble Share, a unique collaboration between High West Distillery and Casa Noble (NOM 1137). This limited-edition release for late 2024 features a unique blend of straight rye whiskeys, each finished in premium Marques de Casa Noble Añejo Tequila barrels.
The blend consists of rye distilled at MGP in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, with a classic mashbill of 95% rye and 5% malted barley, alongside rye distilled at High West in Park City, Utah, which uses a mashbill of 80% unmalted rye and 20% malted rye. The whiskeys in the blend range in age from 4 to 10 years, though specific blending ratios remain a closely guarded secret.
After its initial maturation, the whiskey undergoes a distinctive secondary aging process in Marques de Casa Noble Añejo Tequila barrels. These exceptional barrels, sourced from the Allier region of France, were forest-aged before being transported to the renowned Troncais and Bertrange cooperages, where they were toasted and aged for an additional year before being filled with tequila. In a fascinating twist, a small portion of the blend was finished in Amburana barrels for a brief period, with a #3 barrel char or medium toast, adding further complexity to the final profile.
High West notes that only a small portion of The Noble Share was finished in Amburana casks, and only for a brief time. Amburana continues to be a polarizing finishing wood in the American spirits world, often sparking strong opinions among enthusiasts. At a suggested retail price of $175, The Noble Share might initially seem like a steep investment, particularly given the use of Amburana. However, it’s worth mentioning that 2024’s Westward Whiskey Milestone, Edition No. 2, which was also well-received, featured a touch of Amburana-finished American single malt whiskey, proving that when used judiciously, this unique wood can enhance rather than overwhelm a blend. Amburana can be easily overdone, but when used sparingly, it offers a nuanced accent rather than dominating the flavor profile, a rare and skillful balance in the world of whiskey finishing. Now, let’s see how the combination of rye whiskey, añejo tequila barrels, and that supposedly subtle Amburana finish came together in this intriguing release!
High West x Casa Noble The Noble Share Rye Review
The Amburana immediately commands attention on the nose, delivering a sharp burst of cinnamon. As this initial rush subsides, a rich cantaloupe note unfolds, followed by the essence of black licorice. With time, a bright, zesty lemon aroma makes its appearance. While the Amburana doesn’t dominate the bouquet to the same extent as in other whiskeys, its influence is unmistakable.
On the palate, Amburana continues to assert itself, bringing forward the distinct flavor of snickerdoodle cookies. Following this, cooked sweet potatoes add a layer of richness, while grapefruit zest and pickled ginger provide an intriguing contrast. The mouthfeel is medium, offering a satisfying weight. As the experience draws to a close, the finish delivers a warm, inviting mix of grilled peaches, buttery pie crust, nutmeg, and cinnamon, leaving a lingering, complex impression.
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