Whisky Focus - WhistlePig The Boss Hog VIII

This 4th of July, WhistlePig, renowned for its exceptional rye whiskies, is set to unveil the 8th edition of its esteemed superhero rye collection in the UK, known as WhistlePig The Boss Hog VIII: LapuLapu's Pacific.

Pushing the boundaries of rye whiskey craftsmanship, this latest release from the award-winning distillery embarks on an unprecedented journey to deliver a whiskey that exudes unparalleled complexity and sets itself apart from anything previously created. True to The Boss Hog's larger-than-life character, this whiskey is described as nothing short of extraordinary.

Named after the historical and symbolic figure from the 16th century Philippines, LapuLapu's Pacific draws inspiration from its namesake. Having spent nearly 18 years maturing in new American Oak, followed by a double finish in high-toast barrels previously used for aging small-batch, single island Philippine rum, Boss Hog VIII is said to emerge as a remarkably intense, spicy, and opulent whiskey, bursting with personality and flavour.

LapuLapu's Pacific not only marks the eighth edition of WhistlePig's highly sought-after annual limited releases but also serves as a sequel to the acclaimed Boss Hog VII: Magellan's Atlantic, which was bestowed the prestigious title of Best Rye Whiskey at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. This release continues the brand's epic "circumnavigation" voyage across the Pacific, as reflected in the careful selection of casks.

While the Philippines may be lesser-known for its rum production on the global stage, the rum barrels utilised for The Boss Hog VIII have embarked on their own extensive journey, originating from a small island situated southwest of Cebu. Previously holding small-batch rum for a duration of seven to ten years, these barrels contribute to the whiskey's depth and character, much like extended barrel aging enhances the vanilla, caramel, and oak notes of rum while introducing layers of complexity to the final spirit. The high-toast profile of the barrels adds yet another dimension, infusing the whiskey with enticing toffee and spice flavours.

"On the heels and success of Magellan’s Atlantic, it was a great challenge to find the perfect finish for the most special Rye barrels in our warehouse. We were already tracing Magellan in depth, and when we discovered LapuLapu’s story we knew we had to track down the best Philippines Rum barrels we could for the sequel. Before maturing Rum for 7-10 years, the barrels were coopered from American Oak and originally held bourbon. In this way, they’ve made their own circumnavigation from American whiskey to the Philippines, and back again to us in Vermont,” says Meghan Ireland, Blender, WhistlePig Whiskey.

"The whiskey rests first in 7-year-old small batch Philippine Rum casks, followed by a shorter finish in 10-year-old small batch Philippine Rum casks. The older rum is darker and bolder, requiring less time for its barrels to impart notes in the whiskey. The end result is an amazingly unique and delicious whiskey."

"Like all of our boldest experiments, this one was not without its trials," adds Ireland. "We actually attempted to send the whiskey itself around the world to Spain, to finish in the place where just one ship from the original fleet finally returned. Those barrels have yet to come back to us, so for the most daring collectors out there, the hunt is on."

In addition to releasing this special whiskey for 4th July, WhistlePig is also marking the occasion in the on trade with a number of partnerships.

London based bars and restaurants who are celebrating 4th July with WhistlePig are below:

• Stereo:
  On the evening of 4th July, the venue will open at 5:30pm offering WhistlePig tastings and cocktails which their expert mixologists have concocted, ensuring every sip is an experience to remember. Guests can also indulge their taste buds with the American themed menu, featuring staples such as juicy burgers and hot wings. Live music from DJ Abi Murray will be playing throughout the evening to get the crowd going.
   
• Scarfes Bar:
  The Bar will have an exclusive cocktail listing of the WhistlePig signature serve: The Maple Old Fashioned for the month of July. On 4th of July there will also be live music, a WhistlePig signature cocktails and tasty mini doughnut to accompany it.
   
• The Bloomsbury Club:
  The Bloomsbury Club brings a touch of American charm as they partner with WhistlePig to celebrate 4th of July. Sip, savour and sample innovative cocktails like the Spiced Maple Bacon Old Fashioned and Apple Pie Sazerac, alongside a delectable menu of American-themed bar bites infused with WhistlePig maple syrup. All while you dance the night away to the soulful sounds of a bluegrass band.
   
• Exclusive WhistlePig cocktail listings will also be available to enjoy at Callooh Callay in Chelsea, Murder Inc and Little Bat.

WhistlePig The Boss Hog VIII: LapuLapu's Pacific has a RRP of £675 and will be available from July  from specialist online whisky shops such as The Whisky Exchange, The Whisky Shop, Master of Malt and Hard To Find Whisky
 

• UK Shops
   
• USA Shops
   
• European Shops

Whisky Focus