Redwood Empire Lost Monarch American Whiskey

Redwood Empire Lost Monarch American Whiskey is a compelling “best of both worlds” blend—uniting bourbon sweetness with rye spice in a smooth, highly approachable format. Often described as a modern “bourye,” it offers balance over brute force, delivering caramel, citrus, and herbal spice in an easy-drinking style. It’s a versatile, crowd-friendly whiskey that bridges categories and consistently punches above its price point.

Origins & Craftsmanship
Produced by Redwood Empire Distilling in Sonoma County, California, Lost Monarch is part of the brand’s core lineup, named after one of the largest redwood trees on earth.

This expression is a blend of straight bourbon and straight rye whiskeys, carefully combined to achieve harmony between sweetness and spice.

Key production details include:

• Blend Composition: Approximately 55% rye whiskey, 45% bourbon

• Aging: Blend of barrels aged roughly 3 to 14 years

• Proof: 90 proof (45% ABV)

• Barrels: New charred American oak

The bourbon component contributes caramel, vanilla, and round sweetness, while the rye adds spice, herbal lift, and structure. This blending approach creates a whiskey that sits stylistically between categories—similar in concept to classic “bourye” blends.

The result is a whiskey designed for balance, versatility, and everyday enjoyment, rather than intensity or high proof.

Critics Reviews

• The Tasting Panel – 95 Points
  Highlights its balance of sweetness and spice, recognizing it as a standout in its category.

• Whiskey Panel – 90 Points
  Notes its approachable, well-integrated profile.

• LA Spirits Awards – Gold Medal
  Confirms its quality and value in the American whiskey segment.

• Breaking Bourbon describes it as offering an “unusual range of bourbon and rye flavors”, leaning slightly toward a rye-forward profile.

These accolades position Lost Monarch as a well-regarded, value-driven blend with broad appeal.

Tasting Profile

Nose:
Inviting and layered with vanilla, caramel, orange zest, clove, and cinnamon, alongside subtle herbal and sandalwood notes.

Palate:
Balanced and smooth with maple sweetness, brown sugar, citrus, and vanilla, followed by rye spice, pepper, and light herbal tones.

Finish:
Medium length with peppery spice, oak, and lingering caramel sweetness, clean and easygoing.

Quick Overview

Cocktail Recipes

Empire Manhattan

• 2 oz Lost Monarch

• ¾ oz sweet vermouth

• 2 dashes bitters

Stir with ice and strain into a coupe; garnish with a cherry.

Monarch Old Fashioned

• 2 oz Lost Monarch

• ¼ oz simple syrup

• 2 dashes bitters

Stir and serve over a large cube with an orange peel.