Mike Frugé and his family of fifth-generation rice farmers have released a full batch of their new J.T. Meleck Rice Whiskey in time for the holiday season.

The 48% ABV whiskey is available year-round at select retailers throughout Louisiana and Arkansas, the company says.

J.T. Meleck Rice Whiskey is the second rice-based spirit for J.T. Meleck, which began distilling rice vodka in 2018. J.T. Meleck Rice Vodka earned a Double Gold Medal, Best of Category and Best in Class from the American Distillery Institute in 2020.

Like other American whiskeys, J.T. Meleck whiskey is aged for nearly five years in American oak, 53-gallon barrels, the company notes. The spirit appears in an intense amber color. Its aroma characteristics include vanilla crème cake and white chocolate pudding, it says. Its taste and texture is smooth, with hints of butterscotch, silky caramel, crème brulee, and dark chocolate with a bit of spice, it adds

“With our new American Rice Whiskey, we are offering our best, ready for you to share with family and friends this holiday season,” said Frugé, founder and owner of Frugé Spirits, in a statement. “We were patient in our process to release a rice whiskey that was the best it could be, authentic to our Louisiana brand and true to our family’s story. We’re giving what we have directly to you; we hope you enjoy it.”

Packaged in 750-ml bottles the American Rice Whiskey can be purchased for a suggested retail price of $47 a bottle by visiting the J.T. Meleck website.

www.jtmeleck.com