Fincasa Whiskey, born of one man’s desire to highlight his cultural heritage against the background of the whiskeys he puts together, is proud to announce the debut of Batch 003 earlier this month. This latest rum-cask-finished rye whiskey draws its flavor considerations from Puerto Rico.
When Fincasa owner Mike Martinez set out on his whiskey journey, he realized there was a general lack of Latino representation in whiskey ownership. He desired to change this, focusing his spirits journey not only on his own family’s agricultural story from Puerto Rico but also, through his releases, a greater awareness of Caribbean/Latin American culture in whiskey in general.
“The most rewarding part of this journey has been connecting with people and hearing the stories of their families, stories that resonate with my own,” said Martinez. “To know that they can see their own heritage reflected in our bottle and brand is truly special.”
Dubbed 'Whiskey De La Tierra' to signify its roots in the land, the process begins with the sourcing of a high-quality rye whiskey from Indiana-based MGP that Martinez finds holds a delicate spice/sweetness balance reminisce of Caribbean cuisine (initially a 95% rye/5% malted barley and 51% rye/45% corn/4% malted barley blend, the latest release is straight 95% rye/5% malted barley). This already aged product then finds itself at least a further six months of finishing time in select ex-rum, origin-specific barrels sourced from places such as Barbados and Puerto Rico that bring to the finished expression a nod to its locale in consideration of additional depth, complexity, and a sense of place.
The initial two batches from Fincasa, Batch 001 and Batch 002, were each finalized in ex-Barbados rum barrels. They were drawn from just four barrels per batch, influenced by no additives, and brought down to 100 proof before bottling. Batch 001 saw a finishing cycle of seven months, with Batch 002 extending even longer at nine months. Each batch offers flavor characteristics touched by the rum consideration, with Batch 002, in particular, being a slightly less sweet expression on the back end that still allows some of the rum aspects to shine through.
The new Batch 003 focuses on Puerto Rico, a Caribbean island known for the rum that originates from here. Aged a minimum of five years, this rye whiskey was finished for 13 months in former Puerto Rican rum barrels. The resulting tasting profile is a symphony of flavors, invoking on the palate notes of black pepper spice, toffee, coffee beans, and hints of chocolate, among other flavors, promising a unique and delightful experience for the whiskey connoisseur.
“Our third batch release, using Puerto Rican barrels, is a full-circle moment,” said Martinez. “Seeing my vision come to life has been incredible. Each batch is a collection of evolving experiences, and we’re not only using origin-specific rum barrels but also telling stories through small label changes. We’re excited to share future releases from other rum-producing countries.”
Batch 003 was finished and bottled at Big Cypress Distillery in Miami, Florida. Fincasa is focused on growing and expanding the brand going forward, with plans to open a barrel aging location in Puerto Rico in 2026. It also plans to partner with another distillery to help in production in the U.S.
Fincasa Whiskey Batch 003, bottled at 100 proof, is presented in a high-quality amber glass bottle with a more rustic look reminiscent of older rum and medicinal bottle types. The design, using a labeling system inspired by original census papers and Martinez family photos, incorporates details of the bottling and elements of the Martinez family origin story.
Batch 003 is available in extremely limited quantities for nationwide shipment via the Fincasa Whiskey website. It is also available at physical retail locations in Puerto Rico, Florida, New York, California, and Washington, D.C. MSRP is $84.99.
ABOUT FINCASA WHISKEY BATCH 003
Specs: Rye whiskey (95% rye/5% malted barley) aged at least five years and finished for 13 months in former Puerto Rican rum barrels. It is bottled at 100 proof and priced at $84.99.
Nose: Baking spices, vanilla, and dark cherry, subtle hints of sweet plantain, oak, citrus zest, and a touch of dark chocolate.
Palate: Flavors of cherry and brown sugar unfold into rich caramel and molasses, with a refined note of sherry wine adding depth and roundness.
Finish: A medium-to-long finish, spice-driven up front with lingering notes of toasted caramel, molasses, and wine-soaked oak.
ABOUT FINCASA WHISKEY
Fincasa is not just a specialized offering of rye whiskey finished in rum barrels - it is also a celebration of family, heritage, and the enduring spirit of our ancestors, rooted in tradition and inspired by our family’s history in Puerto Rican agriculture. Our rum barrel-finished rye whiskey draws inspiration from the rich heritage and traditions of Latin America and the Caribbean. Fincasa's expressions tell captivating stories through meticulously crafted flavors.
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