I have been impressed by every Old Elk expression I have had. Now, the ongoing Infinity Series and new addition to the Cigar Cut line are perhaps Master Distiller Greg Metze’s best bottlings yet. After all, the industry legend was awarded Master Distiller of the Year 2024 by Whisky Awards. These whiskies are two examples of why.

Tasting Notes

Infinity Series 2024
The Infinity Series is one of my favorite things about Old Elk. The concept first came to fruition in 2021 with the inaugural release. Since then, Old Elk has added a new edition annually. Despite each new blend being different, each one contains some of the blend from the prior year. Therefore, as the years go on and on, at least some portion of every Infinity Series expression contains some of the original, hence the name. The blend of 2024’s Infinity Series release is 61% Old Elk Wheated Bourbon (9-year), 15% 2023 Infinity Blend, 12% Old Elk Straight Rye (7-Year), and 12% Straight Wheat Whiskey (10-year). It’s bottled at 111.15 proof and has an MSRP of $149.99.

The nose is not as intense as the proof might indicate, as it’s deeply inviting and rounded. A rich mahogany, amber color throws robust aromas from the glass. Intense aromas of wood varnish and leather from the extensive age inside are balanced by sharp black cherry and dark fruitiness. On the palate, the proof is bold and delicious. The sturdy ABV is balanced by every component. The soft, buttery bourbon sweetness, the uber spicy, dry rye, and the nuttiness from the wheat, all of which are extensively aged, come together cohesively for layers upon layers of discovery.

Cigar Cut Island Blend
Special cask finishing is Old Elk’s bread and butter, so combining its most uniquely aged whiskies is an undisputed homerun. Each component of this intricate “Island Blend” of four Cask-Finish Series whiskies undergoes secondary aging to enhance their character. The blend is comprised of Old Elk High Malt Bourbon (6-year) finished separately in both sherry and port casks, Old Elk Straight Rye (6-year) finished in rum casks, and Old Elk Wheat (6-year) finished in a Sauternes cask. It’s bottled at 111.7 proof with a $129.99 price tag.

The tropical inspiration of this blend is evident straight away. Aromas of banana and raisin combine with classic vanilla for a soft, diverse profile. The palate brings more tropical notes of clove, juicy stone fruit, and caramelized sugar. The barrel notes are unique and complex, expertly sourced and utilized. The different accents come together in layers of harmony and richness, every sip providing something new to look for. The whiskey character is robust and elevated by the tropical “island” notes, making for a sipper fit year-round, especially in the summer months that inspired it.

Final Thoughts
Although both are superb, I have to give the edge to the Cigar Cut Island Blend here. It’s a true amalgamation of what Old Elk does, perhaps better than anyone. The very best of its innovative, specialty cask finishing techniques are all on full display in this bottling as an ultimate Old Elk expression.