New High-Proof Whiskey from Nevada Distillery

A family-owned distillery in Nevada has introduced a new whiskey bottled at an impressive 123.4 proof—a figure that might cause some whiskey enthusiasts to raise an eyebrow.

However, a higher proof doesn’t always equate to a superior drink, as noted by both a spirits expert and the distillery’s owners.

The Third Harvest whiskey from Frey Ranch Farmers & Distillers has been aged between five and eight years in oak barrels. It boasts an alcohol by volume (ABV) of 61.7%, which is indeed quite potent.

Colby and Ashley Frey, the co-founders of Frey Ranch in Fallon, Nevada, shared insights about their agricultural roots and the creation of their latest product.

Colby’s family’s farming legacy in northern Nevada dates back to 1854, and he’s proud to continue that tradition. “We’ve been continually farming in Nevada ever since,” he mentioned.

This whiskey is crafted from a unique mix of corn, rye, malted barley, wheat, and triticale, which is essentially a hybrid between wheat and rye.

Frey Ranch prides itself on growing all of its grains on-site specifically for whiskey production—a rather uncommon practice in the industry, Colby remarked.

Though its proof is on the higher side, it’s not unprecedented. Derek Brown from Drink Company, a hospitality consulting firm, highlighted that many whiskies are barrel strength, and this one is just at the higher end of the spectrum. In fact, some of his preferred bottles come with a high proof.

He added that, ideally, a strong spirit should showcase a range of complex flavors from the barrels it matures in, rather than just a dominant alcohol hit. “It can definitely produce a burning sensation and be too much if the other flavors, especially those from wood maturation, are not also present,” he cautioned.

The Freys recognize that while their whiskey has a high proof, the number doesn’t tell the entire story. Ashley Frey explained, “We like to pick our whiskey and proof our whiskey based on flavor profiles, not on proof.” Their aim is to capture the best expression of their grains through this whiskey.

This particular batch is aimed at consumers who are on the lookout for distinct taste profiles. “It’s going to be for somebody who’s really searching and has a refined palate,” Ashley noted.

Brown concurred, stating it’s definitely “for the initiated.” He also suggested that if the whiskey feels too potent, it’s perfectly acceptable to dilute it with a bit of water or ice.

For those who are not fans of bold flavors, he suggested they might want to opt for something else.

This limited batch will only see around 700 bottles produced, each priced at $299.

It’s evident for Ashley that this whiskey encapsulates a blend of hard work, heritage, and a love for the land. “It’s really a piece of me and Colby’s hard work and heritage and love for the land and agriculture that’s expressed through a bottle of whiskey,” she said.

Ultimately, it’s advisable to savor high-proof spirits with caution, ideally alongside food, as suggested by Brown.