Another Unique, New Chapter in WhistlePig’s Most Collectible Whiskey Series
WhistlePig Whiskey has announced the release of The Boss Hog XII: Feather & Flame, the latest installment in its limited-edition series. Each year, the Vermont-based distillery introduces a new expression that explores innovative cask finishes and bold flavor combinations. This twelfth edition takes inspiration from ancient Aztec traditions, maturing its rye whiskey in Pulque Curado de Cacao barrels—a world first in whiskey finishing.
Aztec-Inspired Craftsmanship and Flavor
Feather & Flame draws from two historic Mexican beverages: pulque, a fermented agave drink, and xocolatl, a traditional cacao-based concoction believed to have “divine origins”. During a research trip to central Mexico, the WhistlePig team was inspired by the depth of these flavors and sought to merge them in whiskey form. “Pulque and xocolatl are two powerful flavors in central Mexico. Pulque’s continuous fermentation process means it has to be consumed quickly before it spoils, and xocolatl doesn’t match what most people think of as ‘chocolate,’” said Meghan Ireland, Head Blender at WhistlePig. “We embraced the strength and power of the flavors and created the world’s first whiskey finished in pulque curado de cacao barrels to bring a rich, savory, aromatic, and earthy elevation to the complex character of Rye Whiskey.”
Distinctive Rye Whiskey Character
The Boss Hog XII was aged for an undisclosed number of years in new American oak barrels before being finished in casks seasoned with pulque curado—a mixture made from agave, cacao, and Mexican chili peppers including chiltepín, guajillo, and pasilla. The resulting whiskey offers aromas of caramel cream and cracked caraway seed, followed by bright citrus, soft oak, and cocoa on the palate. The finish delivers an earthy spice with notes of savory cacao and herbaceous chili pepper.
Collectible Design and Limited Release
Each bottle of Feather & Flame features a pewter stopper depicting a feathered pig deity holding an Aztec chocolate whiskey vessel, handcrafted at Danforth Pewter in Vermont. The packaging includes twelve unique collectible gift box designs inspired by Aztec art and mythology, and each bottle carries an NFC-enabled label for authentication. The Boss Hog XII: Feather & Flame will be bottled between 104.8 and 108.4 proof (52.4–54.2% ABV) and retails for $599.99 per 750ml bottle. The release becomes available October 23, 2025, at The Vault in Kentucky, select retailers nationwide, and online via shop.whistlepigwhiskey.com.
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