Triple Oak Whiskey became Enthusiast Report’s top-rated whiskey

PARK CITY, Utah—Alpine Distilling’s co-founder, Rob Sergent made history with the distillery’s Triple Oak Whiskey. This ad hoc project was created for a friend and was recently named Enthusiast Report’s highest-rated whiskey. On another newsworthy note, Sergent will also be the first non-celebrity to grace the magazine’s cover (preceded by Matthew & Camila McConaughey, Ian Somerhalder and Paul Wesley, and 50 Cent), solidifying the Triple Oak as a symbol of craftsmanship and innovation.

Triple Oak Whiskey was initially created as a private passion project for a friend and was not intended for public recognition.

“We produced two barrels for a friend who had very specific flavor requests—strong vanilla in the aroma and fruit peel in the flavor. It was a one-off project and not part of our business plan. But Sara, my wife and co-founder, ignored my reluctance and submitted it for review anyway. Turns out, that was the best decision she could’ve made.”

The result? Triple Oak became a masterpiece celebrated for its complexity and distinct flavor profile.

Triple Oak’s success is no accident. Sergent meticulously blended science with art, leveraging a trifecta of French oak, Arkansas oak, and a proprietary triple-toasting process. This created a whiskey with layers of vanilla, fruit peel, and a velvety smooth finish.

“We used the trigeminal nerve as inspiration—how whiskey interacts with the palate to create a warming effect,” he said. “Whiskey can give you a bite, but also some sweetness, and if you blend it well, it’s quite rewarding. Triple oak has a lot of barley, so there’s a lot of guaiacol, like a toffee or butterscotch flavor. We use an alkaline water which pacifies that warmth to a velvety-ness.”

Talking to Rob and Sara about their creations is like talking to the Willy Wonkas of distilling—there’s excitement, expertise, and science behind every step they take.

The whiskey’s unique profile was achieved through insane attention to detail (as is the rest of Alpine’s decorated line of spirits), including the selection of specific oak barrels, precise toasting methods, and even consideration of humidity during production.

Sergent credits Park City’s collaborative spirit as key to Triple Oak’s creation. Local chefs like Zane Holmquist of Stein Eriksen Lodge and Jason Berrett from Stein Eriksen Lodge provided feedback, pushing Alpine Distilling to create a whiskey that matched the sophistication their clientele demanded.

“This whiskey only exists because we live where we live, surrounded by such talented people,” Rob said. “We’re constantly learning and sharing expertise with our neighbors, which makes Park City a special place to create.”

For him, Triple Oak represents more than an exceptional whiskey. It reflects the unique melding of high-performing experts in the Park City community.

“We live in a gold-medal town with incredible neighbors—writers, chefs, executives, athletes. It’s inspiring to be surrounded by people who aim for excellence in everything they do,” he said.

Although Triple Oak wasn’t initially intended for mass production, its popularity is undeniable. It is mainly sold by the barrel to private buyers, but limited availability allows locals and visitors to savor this award-winning creation.

In addition to Triple Oak, Alpine Distilling plans to release Utah Straight Whiskey in February 2025. Unlike Triple Oak, this offering will be widely accessible, hitting state liquor store shelves. And for those reading in Chicagoland, you can find Alpine’s spirits at Binny’s.

Alpine Distilling will be celebrating at a sold-out release party for the magazine on Friday, Feb. 28; the Social Aid & Pleasure Club will be open to the public the same evening, at 7 p.m. To get your hands on this celebrated whiskey, you can explore private barrel purchases or visit local establishments featuring Alpine Distilling’s products. To learn more, visit www.alpineparkcity.com.

From its local roots to its global recognition, Triple Oak Whiskey is more than a spirit—it’s a testament to Park City’s creativity and excellence. Whether you’re a whiskey connoisseur or a curious newcomer, this one-of-a-kind creation is worth raising a glass to.

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