Von Payne Black Blended Whiskey

Von Payne Black is a 3-year American blended whiskey infused with natural black currant, bottled at 90 proof and poured through a distinctive gargoyle spout — a deep-red, slightly tart-and-sweet whiskey built around a fruit most American drinkers have never tasted.

The hook is the black currant. The berry was effectively banned from cultivation in the United States for much of the 20th century because it was seen as a threat to the timber industry, and the federal ban wasn't fully lifted until 2003 — which is why most Americans have never encountered its dense, tart, antioxidant-rich flavor. Von Payne Black builds its identity around it, blending natural black currant into a 90-proof American whiskey for a result that's slightly tart, subtly sweet, and smooth.

The bottle is a conversation piece in its own right, with a sculpted gargoyle pour spout that stands out on any back bar or home shelf.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Complex black currant over naturally sweet whiskey.
Palate: Slightly sweet, slightly tart, with a warm 90-proof kick.
Finish: Long and smooth.

Specs

Style: American blended whiskey, infused with natural black currant
Age: 3 years
Proof: 90 (45% ABV)
Bottle: Gargoyle pour spout

Browse more American whiskey at Wooden Cork.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Von Payne Black taste like?

It's a black currant-infused blended whiskey — slightly tart and subtly sweet, with the dark-berry character layered over a warm 90-proof whiskey base. Distinct from typical flavored whiskeys thanks to the unusual black currant fruit.

What is black currant and why is it unusual?

Black currant is a tart, antioxidant-rich dark berry that was effectively banned from US cultivation for much of the 20th century over concerns it threatened the timber industry. The ban wasn't fully lifted until 2003, so most Americans have never tasted it — which is what makes Von Payne Black's flavor so distinctive.

How should I serve it?

Enjoy it neat or over ice to highlight the tart-sweet black currant, or use it as a fruit-forward base in whiskey cocktails. The gargoyle spout also makes it a striking display and gifting bottle.