WhistlePig The Boss Hog VIII LapuLapu's Pacific is the eighth chapter in WhistlePig's most coveted annual release series, hand bottled on the WhistlePig farm in Vermont in 2021. This is straight rye whiskey aged nearly 18 years in new American oak, then double finished in high toast, small batch, single island Philippine rum barrels. The whiskey first rests in 7 year old Philippine rum casks, then receives a shorter secondary finish in 10 year old Philippine rum casks, the older and bolder rum imparting depth in less time. The release pays tribute to the Filipino warrior LapuLapu, who defeated Magellan's Spanish forces at the Battle of Mactan in 1521, and serves as the Pacific sequel to The Boss Hog VII Magellan's Atlantic. This specific bottle is Barrel No. 75, bottled at 105.7 proof, and crowned with the handmade collectible pewter pig deity topper in LapuLapu's likeness. A long discontinued limited release that completed WhistlePig's epic circumnavigation theme.
ABV / Proof
| Brand |
WhistlePig |
| Distillery |
WhistlePig Whiskey, Shoreham, Vermont |
| Founder |
Raj Bhakta (Founded 2007) |
| Series |
The Boss Hog (Edition VIII) |
| Release Name |
LapuLapu's Pacific (2021) |
| Category |
Straight Rye Whiskey |
| Age Statement |
17 Years |
| Maturation |
New American Oak, double finished in 7 year and 10 year Philippine rum barrels |
| Barrel No. |
75 |
| Bottling |
Single Barrel, Barrel Strength, Non Chill Filtered |
| ABV |
52.9% |
| Proof |
105.7 |
| Bottle Size |
750ml |
| Status |
Discontinued 2021 Annual Vintage |
| Country |
United States (Vermont) |
Tasting Notes
Color: Rich amber with deep copper highlights from the dual rum finish.
Nose: Lush vanilla aromas give way to delicate tropical notes including underripe banana, fresh lemon, and molasses with a soft toasted oak backdrop.
Palate: Abundant fresh ground cinnamon meets citrus zest, butterscotch, and light toffee, layered over the mature rye's signature spice frame.
Finish: Tanned leather, light brown sugar, nutmeg, and allspice carry into a long lasting black pepper rye warmth.
FAQ
What makes Boss Hog VIII LapuLapu's Pacific unique? It is the only Boss Hog release to feature single island Philippine rum casks, with a double finish using both 7 year and 10 year aged rum barrels from an island southwest of Cebu. It is also one of the oldest rye whiskeys ever released by WhistlePig at 17 years.
Is Boss Hog VIII still in production? No. LapuLapu's Pacific was a 2021 limited annual release and has been discontinued for years. Remaining bottles trade well above original retail on the secondary market and are increasingly scarce.
Does each bottle taste the same? No. Boss Hog VIII is single barrel and bottled at barrel strength, with proof ranging from 104.8 to 106.6 across the run. This bottle is Barrel No. 75 at 105.7 proof.
How does this compare to other WhistlePig releases? Boss Hog sits at the apex of the WhistlePig hierarchy. Compare with the core WhistlePig 10 Year Rye, the entry tier PiggyBack 6 Year Bourbon, or the age stated WhistlePig 18 Year Double Malt.
Where can I buy WhistlePig Boss Hog VIII LapuLapu's Pacific online? Available here at Liquor On Broadway while stock lasts, with fast insured shipping nationwide.
