Dark Arts The Empyrean Straight Bourbon Red & White Port Wine Cask Finish
Straight Bourbon Whiskey | Cask Strength (~5558% ABV) | 750mL

Process & Profile

The Empyrean is a special edition straight bourbon whiskey from Dark Arts, finished in both red and white port wine casks for a rich dual-layered flavor profile. Bottled at cask strength and non-chill filtered, this release showcases the bourbons bold core while drawing elegant fruit and spice from the dual cask finishing process. The whiskey starts as a traditional high-corn bourbon and is matured in new American oak before being transferred to a mix of seasoned ruby and white port barrels for an extended secondary maturation.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Stewed plum, toasted caramel, vanilla bean, and red berries

• Palate: Black cherry, fig, white chocolate, raisin bread, and port-soaked oak

• Finish: Long and warming with a wave of dried fruit, baking spice, and tannic sweetness

What Makes It Special

• Finished in both red and white port wine casks for layered complexity

• Bottled at full cask strength for unfiltered intensity

• Limited release from Dark Arts Whiskeys Special Series

• Non-chill filtered and likely single-barrel or small-batch

• Balanced between fruit-forward sweetness and deep barrel spice

How to Enjoy

Sip neat to experience the interplay of port wine and high-proof bourbon. A few drops of water can open up softer stone fruit and spice. Excellent with sharp cheeses, dark chocolate, or as a contemplative after-dinner pour.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is this a limited release?
   Yes, The Empyrean is a small-batch special release in Dark Arts rotating series.

2. What is the proof?
   As a cask strength bourbon, it typically ranges between 110116 proof, depending on the barrel.

3. What kind of bourbon is the base?
   A traditional straight bourbon, likely high-corn and aged in new charred oak prior to finishing.

4. How long is it finished?
   The port cask finishing duration is not disclosed but is long enough to impart significant red fruit and tannin complexity.

5. Are additives used?
   No. Dark Arts produces whiskey without coloring, flavoring, or chill filtration.