How Much Does The Quintessential Special Release - Number Five Cost in 2026?
The Quintessential Special Release - Number Five — All Sizes & Prices
| Bottle Size | Price | Price/oz | Price/Shot | Shots |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 750ml (Standard) 25.4 oz | $71.25 | $2.81 | $4.22 | 16.9 |
About The Quintessential Special Release - Number Five
The Quintessential Special Release - Number Five is a premium American single malt whiskey from Cedar Ridge Vineyards & Distillery in Iowa, boasting 59% ABV (118 proof) and finished in five distinct casks—imported port, estate port, imported Madeira, estate Madeira-inspired wine, and another wine cask denoted by the Roman numeral 'V'. Produced by Cedar Ridge Vineyards LLC, this 750ml bottle retails for $71.25, making it a standout value in the 'Other Spirits' category for its complexity and boldness. What makes it special is its fruit-forward profile with layered sweetness, evolving fruit notes, mild peat influence, white pepper spice, and dry oak balance, achieved through innovative multi-cask finishing and a solera-inspired marrying process honoring founder Jeff Quint. Ideal for single malt enthusiasts seeking American innovation over traditional Scotch, it compares favorably to richer, peatier profiles like Balvenie Week of Peat or Glendronach, but with a unique smoky stone fruit elegance at a fraction of the price. Its high proof delivers vigor without overwhelming, positioning it as a collector's gem for those exploring terroir-driven U.S. whiskeys.
Tasting Notes
👃 Nose
The nose bursts with moderately sweet layers of red berries, pears, plums, apricots, and prunes, complemented by mild oak, maple syrup, burnt caramel, and tart orange peel. Subtle floral elegance and light peat emerge, creating a full, rich, and flavorful bouquet that's fruit-forward yet balanced. Hints of nuts like almonds and walnuts add depth, with a whisper of smoked meat in the background.
👅 Palate
On the palate, rich sweetness dominates with raspberry syrup, red grapes, overripe apples dusted in cinnamon, peach nectar, and stone fruit salad in syrup. Mild peat threads through, alongside spicy white pepper, honey, dark cherries, and a medium-bodied, coating mouthfeel that dances delicately despite big flavors. Floral honeysuckle and bourbon-like sweetness from the finishes provide counterbalance to the evolving fruit and subtle smoke.
✨ Finish
The finish is long and somewhat dry, with increasing white pepper spice, lingering dark berries, tart citrus, and mild char on dry oak. Smoked stone fruits and persistent mild peat leave a deep, warm aftertaste.
Popular Cocktails with The Quintessential Special Release - Number Five
Quintessential Smoke — Stir 2oz Number Five with 0.5oz peach liqueur and a dash of Angostura over ice, garnish with smoked orange peel.
Madeira Malt Manhattan — Combine 2oz Number Five, 1oz sweet vermouth, and 2 dashes orange bitters, stir with ice and strain into a coupe.
Peated Fruit Old Fashioned — Muddle sugar with Angostura bitters, add 2oz Number Five and a splash of peach nectar, stir over large ice cube and flame an orange twist.
Food Pairings
Charred grilled peaches and plums, Smoky barbecue ribs, Dark chocolate with sea salt, Aged cheddar or blue cheese, Spicy pecan pie