Introduction
Today, we’re diving into one of the most sought-after and elusive American single malts out there: Stranahan’s Snowflake. Released once a year in December, this whiskey is named after one of Colorado’s 14,000-foot mountain peaks, with the 2023 edition called Pyramid’s Peak. What makes this release so special is its unique finishing process—every year features a blend of different casks, and for Pyramid’s Peak, the whiskey has been aged for 8 years and finished in a variety of barrels: Carcavelos, Sauternes, brandy, peated Scotch, rum, and applejack.
This whiskey is a blend of bold experimentation and high-altitude craftsmanship. At $120 MSRP and with only 2,000 bottles released annually, Snowflake is a collector's dream. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s break it down whiskey by whiskey.
This review is taken from our episode "The Holdovers / Stranahan's Snowflake." Click the link to listen to this review in audio format.
The Nose
Brad: This nose is really fascinating. You’ve got baking spices, strong cherry notes, some floral elements, and a touch of dusty leather. What surprised me most was the strong anise character, which I don’t usually like, but it works well here. 8/10.
Bob: I agree, Brad. The first thing that hit me was a bright, tart hard cider note, almost like biting into a crisp apple. The leather comes in strong, backed by some cherry and malt that hint at licorice. For me, the apple note stands out most and overrides the other fruit. It’s complex and inviting. 8.5/10.
Summary: The nose is bright, fruity, and layered with notes of apple, cherry, leather, and subtle anise, making it both unique and inviting.
The Taste
Brad: On the palate, this whiskey dives headfirst into cinnamon, leather, and dried cherry. I also got a note that reminded me of pumpernickel bread, which I found really tasty. This is an impressive, bold palate, and I’m coming up a bit here—8.5/10.
Bob: This whiskey does carry that “craft American whiskey” note that I always describe as woody and vegetal. It’s a me thing, but it’s worth mentioning. Apart from that, I loved the cinnamon bomb paired with apple juice sweetness. The clove note added a nice touch, though it’s not as sweet as I initially expected based on the finishes. I’ll give it a 7.5/10.
Summary: A bold palate led by cinnamon, leather, and apple notes with a surprising pumpernickel twist. It’s complex but still approachable.
The Finish
Brad: The finish is really nice—nothing mind-blowing, but it checks all the boxes. There’s oak, cherry, lingering cinnamon, and even some black pepper. I was hoping for a bit of that peated Scotch smoke to appear, but it never quite did. Still, a solid 8/10 for me.
Bob: For me, the finish brought back that cinnamon and a nice hit of apple juice sweetness that really carried through. I wish it tasted a little more mature for an 8-year whiskey, but I can’t complain too much. I’m also at an 8/10 here.
Summary: A balanced finish with lingering cinnamon, cherry, and oak. The apple sweetness shines through, but a touch of smoke might have made it even better.
The Balance
Brad: I think the balance is really strong here. The nose leads perfectly into the palate, and while the cinnamon was more prominent than expected, it worked. This whiskey has a complexity that keeps things interesting without being disjointed. 8.5/10.
Bob: I’m at an 8/10 on balance. Everything works together well, and the craftsmanship is clear. For an 8-year-old American single malt, this is seriously impressive. I respect it more than I enjoyed it, but I can’t deny how well-executed it is.
Summary: Great balance between the nose, palate, and finish. The cinnamon surprise adds intrigue without disrupting the flow.
The Value
Brad: At $120 MSRP, this is pricey, but considering the amount of labor that goes into blending finishes and the limited 2,000-bottle release, it makes sense. If this were priced under $100, I’d call it an outstanding value. At $120, it’s still very solid—7/10.
Bob: I agree. It’s a labor-intensive product, and while I wouldn’t personally buy a bottle for $120, I don’t think it’s unfairly priced. The unique blend and annual release justify the cost. 7/10.
Summary: A premium price tag that reflects the craftsmanship and scarcity. Worth it for collectors or fans of bold single malts.
Final Scores
Brad: 40/50
Bob: 39/50
Average Score: 39.5/50
Conclusion
Stranahan’s Snowflake is a standout American single malt that showcases the brand’s creativity and dedication to quality. With an average score of 39.5/50, it earns a solid recommendation from us. If you’re in Denver during the holidays, this is absolutely worth trying at the bar or grabbing a bottle—if you’re lucky enough to find one. For collectors and fans of bold single malts, Snowflake delivers a unique experience year after year, cementing its place as one of the most exciting releases in American whiskey.
FAQ
1. What makes Stranahan’s Snowflake so special?
Stranahan’s Snowflake is a limited annual release featuring a unique blend of single malt whiskey finished in a variety of casks, including Carcavelos, Sauterne, rum, and more.
2. How much does Stranahan’s Snowflake cost?
Stranahan’s Snowflake is priced at $120 MSRP, though its rarity can drive up prices on the secondary market.
3. What is the flavor profile of Stranahan’s Snowflake?
It offers bold notes of cinnamon, leather, cherry, and apple juice, with baking spices and oak on the finish.
4. Where can I buy Stranahan’s Snowflake whiskey?
Snowflake is released annually at Stranahan’s distillery in Denver, Colorado. It’s sold on a first-come, first-served basis during a special holiday event.
5. Is Stranahan’s Snowflake worth it?
With its unique finishes and limited production, Snowflake is a must-try for collectors and fans of single malts, especially if you enjoy bold, complex flavors.
