Forty Creek Barrel Select Blended Canadian Whisky, Ontario, Canada

Forty Creek Barrel Select Blended Canadian Whisky represents the bold step that redefined Canadian whisky at the turn of the millennium. First released in 2000, it was the distillery’s debut blend that challenged conventions by showcasing the complexity and depth possible through innovation and craftsmanship. A marriage of individually aged rye, barley, and corn whiskies matured in seasoned ex-Bourbon barrels and new American white oak, Barrel Select continues to embody Forty Creek’s vision of “believing in better.”

Product Details:

• Master Blender: Bill Ashburn
• Founder: John Hall
• Style: Blended Canadian Whisky
• Grains: Rye, Barley, Corn (each aged separately)
• Cask Type: Seasoned ex-Bourbon barrels & new American white oak
• ABV: 40%
• Appearance: Warm gold color

Sensory Description:

On the nose, aromas of honey, vanilla, orange peel, and apricot unfold, intertwined with toasted oak, black walnut, and delicate spice. The palate is robust and layered, offering bold flavors of vanilla, honey, cocoa, and a touch of rye spice with earthy undertones. Smooth and well-rounded, it concludes with a long, lingering finish that is both elegant and memorable.

Awards & Accolades:

• Double Gold – TAG Global Spirits Awards 2024
• Silver – San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2024
• Gold – ASCOT Awards 2023
• Silver – TAG Global Spirits Awards 2023
• Grand Gold – San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2021
• Great Value – Ultimate Beverage Challenge 2021 & 2017
• Gold – New York International Spirits Competition 2020
• Silver – International Wine & Spirit Competition 2019
• Bronze – San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017

Distiller's Background:

Forty Creek Distillery was first established in 1972 by Otto Rieder as a fruit spirits producer, rooted in the fertile Niagara region. The modern era began in 1992, when winemaker John Hall and blender Bill Ashburn envisioned a new direction for Canadian whisky. After nearly a decade of development, they unveiled Barrel Select in 2000, redefining the style with innovation and complexity. Over time, Forty Creek expanded its range with bold releases like Copper Pot (now Copper Bold), while staying true to its philosophy of challenging the status quo. Recognition followed, including being named Whisky Maker of the Decade at the 2020 Canadian Whisky Awards. Today, under the ownership of Campari Group, Forty Creek continues to honor its heritage while driving innovation forward, all from its Grimsby, Ontario home.

Serving Suggestions:

Barrel Select shines neat or over ice, where its layered complexity can be savored slowly. Its smooth and versatile profile also makes it an excellent choice for cocktails, from a classic Whisky Sour to a Canadian Old Fashioned. Pair it with roasted nuts, grilled meats, or rich chocolate desserts to highlight its warmth and depth.

Forty Creek Barrel Select is more than just the distillery’s flagship, it’s the whisky that put modern Canadian whisky on the global stage, delivering robust flavor, balance, and craftsmanship in every sip.