Tasting notes: Hogshead Whiskey enjoyed at St. John's Pub

I scanned this label all by myself!

When one pictures the great pantheon of American Whiskey, images of Kentucky, horse racing and old men in dapper white suits is generally what comes to mind.  For this reason it comes as a surprise (to most) that fine distilled products can also be found locally here in the Pacific Northwest.  Hogshead, distilled by Oregon's very own McMenamin's group, is a prime example.

The details:

Nose: Sweet, direct.

Body: Light, you'd swear it was watered down until it "hits you".

Palate: Goes off like a firecracker in your mouth at the halfway point.  This is the whiskey's shining moment.

Finish: Smooth, clear and crisp.  Leaves you wanting more.

Pairings: So light that it would probably go with pretty much anything.  I washed mine down with a Terminator Stout, as I felt like it needed something a little heavier to weigh it down.  Think of a Guinness with a shot of Jameson.

Rating: This notable entry into the family of American Whiskey gets its distinctive flavor from the fact that its mashbill is 100% malted barley (as opposed to the more familiar bourbon, which is by definition at least 51% corn whiskey and therefore much sweeter).  It lacks complexity, but is very smooth and drinkable.  Hogshead gets a 7 1/4 out of 10 due to this lack of complexity, but it is a pleasant change from Jack, Jim and their southern compatriots.  

For more:

Name: Hogshead

Type: American Whiskey

Region: Oregon

Age: (not given)

Proof: 92

Enjoyed at: St. John's Theater and Pub

Try it yourself!  Hogshead Whiskey is served at all McMenamin's Pubs and can be exclusively purchased by the bottle at the Edgefield Distillery in Troudale, OR.  It is a mere stone's throw from downtown Portland, and well worth the trip!