Four Grain Single Barrel

Koval was founded by Robert and Sonat Birnecker, who left secure careers to pursue their whisky dream in Chicago. The name honours Sonat's great-grandfather, who showed similar courage emigrating from turn-of-the-century Vienna to America. This Four Grain Single Barrel is not a bourbon — its mash bill contains no corn, instead blending oat, malted barley, rye, and wheat, distilled on a hybrid pot still and matured in American oak barrels from Minnesota forests.

The nose opens with intense, caramelized banana, followed by vanilla and oak notes that unfold as the glass breathes. On the palate, a round, creamy texture reveals cinnamon, pie crust, and sticky dried fig, with hints of maple syrup. The finish is spicy and fresh, with cacao, orange peel, and raisin notes, ending in minty freshness that clears the palate.

This is an unconventional grain whisky that stands apart from traditional bourbon profiles. Fully organic, kosher, and made by a small independent distillery, it offers something rare: American craft spirit without the expected corn dominance.