Old Potrero California Cellar Series #04 Rye Whiskey Finished in Almanac Beer Barrels
Old Potrero California Cellar Series #04 — Straight Rye Finished in Almanac Beer Barrels
Old Potrero California Cellar Series #04 is a straight rye whiskey finished in Almanac Beer Co. imperial stout barrels — bottled at 57.5% ABV (115 proof) in a 700mL bottle. A limited-edition California collaboration from Hotaling & Co. in San Francisco.
The base whiskey is straight rye aged 6 years 6 months in new charred American oak, then finished for 5 months in oak barrels that previously held a custom Almanac imperial stout for 8 months — a true California farm-to-barrel collaboration between two of the state's craft pioneers. Released in July 2025 as the second 2025 Cellar Series expression, it's where pot-distilled rye spice meets dark-malt depth.
Tasting Notes
- Nose: Rich chocolate with a hint of vanilla and warm barrel rickhouse character.
- Palate: Caramel and roasted malt layered with spiced apricot — the stout barrels add a dark-malt brûlée richness.
- Finish: Viscous and long, with deep stone fruit and lingering rye spice.
Key Highlights
- ✔ Straight rye whiskey aged 6 years 6 months in new charred American oak
- ✔ Finished 5 months in Almanac Beer Co. imperial stout barrels
- ✔ Bottled at 57.5% ABV (115 proof) — bold, cask-strength character
- ✔ A California craft collaboration from Hotaling & Co., San Francisco
- ✔ Limited Cellar Series release — collector-worthy bottle
How to Enjoy
Sip it neat or with a few drops of water to open up the chocolate-and-malt layers — at 115 proof it rewards patience. A natural pairing for dark chocolate desserts or a slow evening pour.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is Old Potrero California Cellar Series #04?
A limited-edition straight rye whiskey from Old Potrero (Hotaling & Co., San Francisco), aged 6.5 years and finished 5 months in barrels that held Almanac Beer Co.'s custom imperial stout.
What proof is Old Potrero Cellar Series #04?
It is bottled at 115 proof, or 57.5% ABV.
How is it different from standard Old Potrero rye?
The Almanac beer-barrel finish is the difference — five months in imperial-stout-seasoned oak adds roasted malt, chocolate, and dark-fruit depth on top of Old Potrero's classic rye spice.
Is this a limited release?
Yes — the California Cellar Series is a limited annual program, and each numbered expression is produced in small quantities.
Explore more: Shop all rye whiskey at Del Mesa Liquor.