Orphan Barrel 'Scarlet Shade' 14 Year Old Rye Whiskey
Orphan Barrel 'Scarlet Shade' 14 Year Old Rye Whiskey is Diageo's first-ever rye release under the Orphan Barrel label — a 14-year-old straight rye bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV) in 750mL. This rye is a born traveler: distilled in Indiana, aged 14 years in Kentucky at the storied Stitzel-Weller distillery, then bottled in Tullahoma, Tennessee. It's available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 45% (90 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Age: 14 years, straight rye whiskey
- Journey: distilled in Indiana → aged at Stitzel-Weller, Kentucky → bottled in Tennessee
- Release: May 2023 limited release; first Orphan Barrel rye, blended by Master Blender Samantha Johnson
Diageo's Orphan-Barrel Project Goes Rye
The Orphan Barrel Whiskey Co. hunts rickhouses for nearly forgotten barrels of great whiskey and bottles them for discerning drinkers. Scarlet Shade — dropped May 2023, with a flash-tattoo-style label featuring the cardinal and peony, state bird and flower of Indiana and Kentucky, perched on a skull — was the collection's first rye. Retailers report a 95%-rye mash bill, but Diageo itself names only the states: distilled in Indiana, journeyed across state lines into Kentucky, bottled in Tullahoma. Explore more rye whiskey and bourbon at Del Mesa, or see the full Orphan Barrel range at Orphan Barrel.
Tasting Notes
Diageo's official notes: aroma of sweet vanilla buttercream and lightly toasted oak, accented with banana bread and a hint of berries. Palate: baking spices and rye toast complementing orchard fruits. Finish: sweet orange marmalade and light warmth fading into lingering dark chocolate. Best neat or on the rocks.
How to Enjoy
At 90 proof this is a sipping rye — neat in a Glencairn or over one large cube. It also builds a serious Old Fashioned or Sazerac, where the 14-year-old rye toast and dark-chocolate finish hold their own against bitters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Scarlet Shade really the first Orphan Barrel rye?
Yes — the May 2023 release was the collection's first-ever rye whiskey.
Where is Scarlet Shade made?
Distilled in Indiana, aged 14 years at Stitzel-Weller in Kentucky, bottled in Tullahoma, Tennessee (per Diageo).
What does Orphan Barrel Scarlet Shade taste like?
Vanilla buttercream, toasted oak, banana bread, baking spices, orchard fruit, orange marmalade, and dark chocolate — per Diageo's official notes.
Is it a limited release?
Yes — a limited 2023 release; the Del Mesa price reflects current retail availability.
Rare rye this pedigreed doesn't sit on shelves long — order Orphan Barrel Scarlet Shade 14 Year Old Rye Whiskey online from Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.