Thursday, September 5, 2024
Saturday, August 10, 2024
B&M Digest, Volume I, Issue 11
Welcome to this edition of the Bourbon & Mead Digest, your go-to source for all things bourbon and mead! Whether you’re a seasoned sipper or just starting your journey into these delightful beverages, we’ve got you covered with the latest news, trends, and tips. From the latest bourbon releases to mead-making techniques and everything in between, our goal is to keep you informed and entertained. Grab your favorite glass, settle in, and let’s dive into the world of bourbon and mead!
Jack Daniel's Bonded Rye Wins Top Honors at 2024 International Whisky Competition
Jack Daniel's Bonded Rye recently secured the 1st place title in the American Rye Bottled-In-Bond Whiskey category at the 2024 International Whisky Competition. This prestigious award highlights the exceptional craftsmanship and dedication behind every bottle. What sets this whiskey apart is its unique grain bill of 70% rye, 18% corn, and 12% malted barley, which creates a robust and distinct flavor profile. The charcoal mellowing process and the "Bottled in Bond" designation—ensuring it’s aged at least four years and bottled at 100 proof—further guarantee a smooth, rich taste that honors the legacy of Jack Daniel's commitment to quality.
Daggers Meadery Showcases at Westfield Farmers Market
Tammy and Austin Cressotti of Daggers Meadery brought a taste of their handcrafted mead to the Westfield Farmers Market on July 25. The Granville-based meadery, known for producing mead from their own bee hives, has been crafting honey wine for six years and has a longer history with honey and skincare products. Visitors can enjoy mead tastings at their location on North Lane in Granville, with hours extending from Thursday to Sunday. No reservations are needed. Daggers Meadery also offers live music, featuring acts like PB & Co. and Acoustic Bandwidth on August 10 and 11, respectively. The Cressottis embraced a Viking theme, paying homage to the historical connection with mead-making. This was their debut at the Westfield Farmers Market, which they found to be a great opportunity to introduce their local meadery to new customers.
NEW RELEASE: Four Roses 2024 Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon Debuts Soon
As National Bourbon Heritage Month approaches, Four Roses is set to release its 2024 Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon on September 14th. This year's blend features four carefully selected batches aged between 12 to 20 years, with a mix of Four Roses' unique bourbon recipes—OBSV, OESK, OESF, and another OBSV. Bottled at 108.2 proof and non-chill filtered, the bourbon promises vibrant, bright flavors with a delicate spice finish. With only 16,680 bottles available nationwide, the release will be priced at $220 each. Mark your calendars!
Mead Institute Announces 2024 US Open
The Mead Institute's US Open Competition is set for October 2, 2024, and promises to be a landmark event for the mead community. This competition brings together mead producers from across the country, offering them a chance to receive high-quality, professional feedback from credentialed sommeliers and cicerones. It's an opportunity to showcase the best in mead, learn from expert critiques, and elevate the craft to new heights. For more information, visit the Mead Institute website.
Orpheus MeadFest 2024 Results: Commercial and Homebrew Divisions
The 2024 Orpheus MeadFest showcased 223 entries across both Commercial and Homebrew divisions.
Commercial Division Highlights:
Traditional Mead - Dry: Legends A Meadery triumphed with "Spear of Lugh" taking Gold.
Traditional Mead - Semi-Sweet: Local TN meadery, The Skeptic Meadery, won Gold with "Standard."
Best of Show: Honey Lane Winery's "Black Raspberry Mead" was honored.
Heavy Medal Brewer was awarded to AntelopeRidgeMead, who earned 12 points across 7 medals.
Homebrew Division Highlights:
Traditional Mead - Dry: Donald Schneider won 1st with "Is This A Winner, Or Is It Just Mead-iocre" from Weizguys Homebrew Club.
Traditional Mead - Semi-Sweet: Jake Tweedy and co-brewers took 1st place with "Crispy Hydromel."
Best of Show: Aaron Oliver’s "Berry Barrel Blitz" in the Experimental Mead category.
Heavy Medal Brewer went to Aaron Oliver with 11 points from 4 medals. Pittsburgh Mead Makers And Homebrewers and three other clubs tied for the Heavy Medal Club award, each scoring 8 points.
For more details, visit the Orpheus Meadfest website.
Thief Steals April Fools' Liquor from Colorado Distillery
Ballmer Peak Distillery in Lakewood, Colorado, experienced an unusual break-in when a thief smashed a window with a golf club and stole two bottles of malört, a bitter spirit, as well as some ice. The stolen bottles, named Bäsk Nömört, were created as an April Fools' joke and retail for around $30 each. The thief seemed to mistakenly believe the product was valuable. Despite the minimal financial loss, co-owner Austin Adamson described the incident as stressful and emphasized the importance of respecting small businesses. The distillery continues operations and plans to open a new location. The Lakewood police are investigating the incident.
Jackson Purchase Distillery Celebrates Expansion and Growth
Jackson Purchase Distillery in Hickman, Kentucky, marked a milestone with the ribbon-cutting of a new rickhouse that will store 25,000 barrels of whiskey. Lieutenant Governor Jacqueline Coleman attended the event, highlighting the $40 million investment in the Fulton County area, with an additional $10 million expected by the end of 2024. Under the leadership of Master Distiller Craig Beam, the distillery has ramped up production from 25 barrels a day to 200. Currently, their bourbon is distributed to investors and other companies rather than sold directly to consumers. In a completely selfish aside, if any of the investors would care to share a dram, I’m always willing to imbibe. For purely scientific purposes of course.
Prohibition Family Recipe Revived at Rapid City Distillery
Contraband Distillery in Rapid City, South Dakota, is keeping the spirit of the Prohibition era alive with a seven-generation family recipe. Founded by Jerry Sailer, who turned his family's bootlegging legacy into a legitimate business, Contraband offers a range of spirits made from traditional recipes. The distillery, operating for nearly a decade, features a diverse lineup of products including bourbon, rye, liqueurs, gin, and vodka, all crafted in-house. Sailer’s unique approach ensures that every drink is made from its spirits, providing a personalized and high-quality experience for patrons.
Southern Star Named Official Bourbon of Wyndham Championship
Southern Star Bourbon is now the official bourbon of the Wyndham Championship, which will take place from August 7-11, 2024, at Sedgefield Country Club in Greensboro, N.C. Southern Distilling Company, based in Statesville, N.C., will highlight its bourbons and rye whiskeys at the new Southern Star Tasting Room located near the ninth green. Fans can enjoy specialty cocktails and sample the distillery’s core products, including a special Wyndham Championship Single Barrel, which features a high-proof, cask-strength bourbon aged nearly six years. This partnership showcases North Carolina’s burgeoning bourbon scene and aims to attract both golf and bourbon enthusiasts.
Zymarium Meadery to Celebrate 1st Anniversary with "First Bee-Day" Bash
Zymarium Meadery in Orlando is throwing a special “First Bee-Day” party on August 17 to mark its first anniversary and National Honey Bee Day. Founded by Joe and Ginger Leigh, the meadery has become known for its diverse mead offerings and welcoming atmosphere. The celebration starts at 1 p.m., with a VIP event starting at noon for early access to special meads and vintage bottles. The event will feature local vendors, food trucks, and bee-themed activities, though those under 21 must leave by 6 p.m. To purchase a VIP ticket click here.
Montpelier Collective Introduces JMU-Themed Bourbon to Support Athletes
The Montpelier Collective, a NIL group supporting James Madison University (JMU) athletes, announced the release of "Champions Drive Tailgate Bourbon," a new bourbon line with proceeds benefiting the collective. Partnering with West Virginia's Swilled Dog distillery, the bourbon is aged five years and bottled at 107 proof. This marks the first in a series of JMU-themed bourbons aimed at bolstering the collective's funds. Although the percentage of sales contributing to the collective wasn’t disclosed, the initiative is part of the collective's broader strategy to enhance marketing and athlete engagement. The bourbon will be available to the public starting August 19.
Denver Broncos Kick Off Season with New Bourbon Blend
The Denver Broncos are adding a spirited touch to their 2024-25 season with the release of Broncos Bourbon Blends, a new line of commemorative bourbons crafted in partnership with Breckenridge Distillery. This year’s blends, crafted with the help of former players Ed McCaffery and Randy Gradishar, honor the team's new uniforms, which will debut in the first preseason game. McCaffery's "Broncos Blue" offers notes of caramel, oak, orange zest, and vanilla, while Gradishar's "Broncos Orange" features toasted almond, biscotti, and creamy oak flavors. Fans can purchase these special bottles, vote on their favorite blend, and even win tickets to a December home game.
A Taste of Michigan: Wonderland Distilling Unveils 100% Sweet Corn Bourbon
Wonderland Distilling Company in Muskegon, Michigan, has introduced its first-ever Straight Bourbon made entirely from Michigan sweet corn, sourced from Traverse City. Aged for two years in new American Oak barrels and bottled at 86 proof, this limited-edition bourbon offers a unique local flavor. Available exclusively at their Muskegon tasting room, the bourbon reflects the distillery's commitment to showcasing Michigan's agricultural bounty. This unique release is a must-try for bourbon enthusiasts visiting the lakeshore. Another release from my home state that I want to try. I may need to get my relatives to start grabbing these.
Three Chord Bourbon Unveils 2024 Backstage Series with The Allman Brothers Band
Three Chord Bourbon has announced its 2024 entry in the Backstage Series, a collaboration with the legendary Allman Brothers Band. Inspired by the band's classic album Eat a Peach, the bourbon features a toasted peach wood finish, offering aromas of spice and vanilla with caramel sweetness on the palate. Whiskey maker Ari Sussman emphasized the unique choice of peach wood, which adds a subtle sweetness, structure, and hint of smoke to the blend. Available for pre-order at $50 per 750ml bottle, this special edition celebrates the band's legacy and embodies the art of whiskey blending and finishing.
RD1 Spirits Names Dr. Jarrad Gollihue as R&D Master Distiller
RD1 Spirits, a Lexington-based bourbon brand with a decorated portfolio, has introduced Dr. Jarrad Gollihue as their new Research and Development Master Distiller. Dr. Gollihue, a former University of Kentucky researcher, will lead RD1’s wood-finishing projects, exploring the effects of different wood species on bourbon flavor. Set to open in January 2025, RD1’s new distillery at The Commons will serve as a hub for these experiments. The facility will feature interactive bourbon experiences, paying homage to Lexington's rich bourbon history while pushing the boundaries of innovation.
Goodwood Brewing & Spirits Open New Location in O'Fallon, Missouri
Goodwood Brewing & Spirits, known for its barrel-aged beers, is opening a new taproom and restaurant in O'Fallon, Missouri, on August 12. Housed in the historic building that once held McGurk's Public House, this new location offers a mix of old-world charm and modern amenities. The brewery's offerings include their signature Kentucky bourbon barrel-aged beers, such as a bourbon barrel stout and a walnut brown ale, alongside Kentucky-based whiskeys aged in used beer barrels. The chef-driven menu has a Southern theme, featuring items like beer pretzels, buffalo cauliflower, and New York strip steak. The restored space includes two indoor bars, a spacious patio, and even an Airbnb above the brewery.
Apis Mead & Winery Celebrates a Decade of Success Despite Setbacks
In 2014, Dave Cerminara founded Apis Mead & Winery in Carnegie, Pennsylvania, where he has been producing unique meads from fermented honey. Despite facing major challenges, including a devastating fire in 2018 and the COVID-19 pandemic, Cerminara has persevered. Apis recently celebrated its 10th anniversary on National Mead Day, drawing hundreds to its taproom. Known for creative meads like Green Apple, Mango Habanero, and Bourbon Barrel Pumpkin Spice, Apis has become a top meadery in the U.S., shipping to 41 states. The cozy taproom, which emphasizes a laid-back atmosphere, offers not just mead but also small bites and a sense of community.
A Conversation With Five Springs’ Lisa Sawyer Derman [Fred Minnick]
The Best New Whiskeys to Drink This August [Inside Hook]
How Colorado’s Old Elk Distillery Crafts Outstanding Whiskeys [Forbes]
Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co. Wins Tripadvisor Travelers' Choice Award 2024 [Big News Network]
Central PA Distillery Gains Success with New Delicious Canned Cocktails [PR.com]
Eric LeGrand Bourbon Works To Remove Stigma In Spinal Cord Injuries [Forbes]
Swede Hill Distillery Blends The Experiences Of Generations Of Early Immigrants [Yakima Herald]
This Stellar Texas Whiskey Distillery Just Dropped One of Its Oldest Bourbons [Robb Report]
Touring Whiskey Row In Louisville? Here Are 7 Downtown Restaurants To Try [Courier Journal]
KDA Inducted into Geneva-based World Spirits Alliance [Fred Minnick]
Castle & Key to Collab with GiantMouse Knives on New Releases [Fred Minnick]
We’ve scanned the TTB Online COLA Registry and came across some interesting labels that recently received approval. Though the labels received approval, this does not guarantee that the distillery will release that particular product. This is for information purposes only and all labels are publicly available on the TTB website. (Click pictures to enlarge)
REMINDER: This is for information purposes only and all labels are publicly available on the TTB website.
That wraps up this edition of the Bourbon & Mead Digest! We hope you enjoyed the latest updates and insights into the fascinating world of bourbon and mead. Remember, whether you’re exploring a new bourbon label or experimenting with a mead recipe, there’s always something new to discover. Until next time, keep your glass filled and your curiosity brewing. Cheers to more great sips and stories!
Wednesday, July 31, 2024
B&M Digest, Volume I, Issue 09
Dive into the world of rich flavors and timeless traditions with our latest edition. From the heart of Middle Tennessee, we bring you the freshest news, intriguing stories, and expert insights on everything bourbon and mead. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your journey, we aim to inform and entertain with a light-hearted touch. So, grab your favorite drink (or grab a bottle, a lot is going on in here), sit back, and dive into the latest from the world of bourbon and mead.
Diggs Boys Bourbon Plans New Distillery and Tasting Room in Philadelphia for 2025
Diggs Boys Bourbon, a Black-owned spirits company, is set to expand its reach by hitting Pennsylvania liquor stores this month and opening a new distillery and tasting room in Philadelphia in 2025. Founded in 2020 by Ernest Drummond, Howard Riley, and Michael Earley during the COVID-19 lockdowns, the brand initially sold its high-rye bourbon online before expanding to stores in 12 states. The founders are currently scouting locations in Germantown, Mount Airy, and East Falls for the new facility, which will also offer an internship program for industry hopefuls. Their mission is to create a space for the community to enjoy bourbon, whiskey flights, and cigars while continuing to build their legacy. For the full story, click HERE.
A Day at Short Mountain Distillery: History, Whiskey, and Relaxation
Nestled in the scenic hills of Cannon County, Tennessee, Short Mountain Distillery blends rich history with modern charm. The distillery, utilizing water from a spring once supplying Al Capone’s 1920s speakeasies, crafts moonshine, whiskey, and rye from recipes passed down through local families. Owner Billy Kaufman continues this tradition, offering a unique visitor experience. Recently, I visited with friends and enjoyed a craft fair, dined at the new Rye and Revelry Restaurant, and participated in a mixology class. The restaurant, run by Craig and Rachel Mitchem, features the famous Moonshine Brownie, made with Short Mountain Shine. The distillery offers informative and entertaining tours, mule rides, and various events, making it a perfect spot for a laid-back yet engaging day trip. Learn more at Short Mountain Distillery and click HERE for the full story from the Davidson County Source.
Don’t Miss the 7th Annual Southern Food & Whiskey Experience
Get ready for a taste of Southern flair at the 7th Annual Southern Food & Whiskey Experience, happening on August 10, 2024, at The Factory in Franklin, TN. This year’s revamped event, formerly known as the Southern Whiskey Society gathering, promises an immersive day of gourmet food and top-tier whiskey. Featuring 10 renowned Middle Tennessee chefs and 40 distillers, including craft vodka, gin, and tequila, attendees can enjoy unique whiskey and food pairings in the new “Pairings Room.” Highlights include a silent auction supporting OneGenAway's fight against food insecurity, a VIP lounge with exclusive perks, and a special cigar experience by Casa De Monte Cristo. With early bird tickets already sold out and last year’s event selling out, it's wise to grab your tickets soon! Find more details and secure your spot here.
Pringles Launches Limited-Time Bourbon BBQ Chip Flavor
Pringles is spicing up the snack aisle with its new limited-time Bourbon BBQ flavor, which is already hitting shelves across the U.S. The chips boast a blend of nutty bourbon and sweet barbecue seasoning, described as “perfectly salty and bursting with sweet and savory oak flavor.” Initial reactions are mixed, with some fans eager to try and others offering split reviews. Available at stores like Albertsons and 7-Eleven, these chips cater to bourbon and BBQ lovers alike. Grab a can while they last and see if this new flavor lives up to the hype!
1792 Full Proof Named Best Bourbon at 2024 Singapore World Spirits Competition
The 2024 Singapore World Spirits Competition has crowned Full Proof bourbon from Barton 1792 Distillery as its "Best In Show" bourbon, marking a significant accolade in the prestigious "Triple Crown" of spirits competitions. This robust 62.5% ABV bourbon impresses with berry fruit notes, charred oak, brown sugar, and apricot, followed by a cinnamon spice finish. Aged for a minimum of four years in Bardstown, Kentucky, and proofed down to 125 proof, Full Proof exemplifies Barton’s rising reputation. With a history of award-winning spirits, Barton, owned by Sazerac, continues to elevate its status in the whiskey world. Get a bottle while you can, as this recognition is likely to boost its demand. Stay tuned for more winners from the competition!
Take a Road Trip to Juniper Tree Meadery: Award-Winning Mead Inspired by Ancient Recipes
If you're looking for a unique summer adventure, head over to Juniper Tree Meadery. Known for its award-winning meads crafted from ancient recipes, this meadery offers a taste of history in every sip. Located in Paragould, Arkansas, Juniper Tree Meadery combines traditional techniques with modern expertise to create flavors that are both timeless and innovative. Whether you're a seasoned mead enthusiast or new to this honey-based beverage, visiting Juniper Tree promises an educational and delicious experience. Check out a video from KAIT about Juniper Tree Meadery HERE.
Celebrity Chefs and Bourbon Experts Headline Bourbon & Beyond Festival's Culinary Lineup
The Bourbon & Beyond festival, set for September 19-22 in Louisville, KY, has announced an exciting culinary lineup featuring renowned chefs and bourbon experts. Leading the charge are Louisville Chef Edward Lee, Amanda Freitag, Chris Santos, and bourbon specialist Chris Blandford. Attendees can look forward to The Culinary Atelier demonstrations with chefs like Tiffani Faison and Marc Murphy, as well as The Bourbon Experience hosted by Freitag and Blandford, featuring daily tapings of the Firkin Podcast. With over 100 musical acts, including headliners Zach Bryan and Dave Matthews Band, this four-day event at the Highland Festival Grounds aims to attract thousands of visitors, combining top-tier culinary experiences with stellar entertainment. For more details, visit Bourbon & Beyond's website.Larceny Bourbon Unveils New Packaging and "Seize Tonight" Campaign
Larceny Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey has launched a new packaging design along with the “Seize Tonight” campaign, inspired by the adventurous spirit of John E. Fitzgerald. The updated look for Larceny Small Batch and Larceny Barrel Proof features premium materials and the iconic key and keyhole imagery, connecting to its Old Fitzgerald heritage. The campaign encourages bourbon enthusiasts to embrace curiosity and take risks, echoing Fitzgerald's legacy. The new packaging also includes hidden UV ink details, revealing the brand's story under a blacklight. Larceny’s wheated bourbon, known for its smoothness, is available nationwide, with Small Batch priced at $27.99 and Barrel Proof at $64.99.
Devil’s Cask Moves Headquarters to Somerset-Pulaski County, Sparking Local Economic Growth
Devil’s Cask, a pioneer in whiskey barrel technology, is relocating its headquarters from West Virginia to Somerset, KY, as announced by CEO Jeremy Grunewald at a recent SPEDA board meeting. This move underscores the company’s dedication to growth and community involvement, aligning with Somerset's blend of tradition and progress. Known for its patented Spirit Lock Technology that reduces whiskey loss without affecting quality, Devil’s Cask supplies barrels to numerous distilleries including Whiskey House Kentucky and Corsair Distillery. The relocation promises new job opportunities in operations, warehouse management, and sales, enhancing the local economy. For more information or to apply, visit devilscask.com.
Hidden Barn Bourbon Wins Double Gold at San Francisco World Spirits Competition
Hidden Barn Bourbon’s Series 1, Batch 23B has earned a prestigious double gold at The Tasting Alliance’s San Francisco World Spirits Competition in the Small Batch Bourbon category for spirits up to 5 years old. Scoring 98 points, judges praised it as "perfectly balanced." This marks the second consecutive year Hidden Barn has achieved this honor. Distilled at Neeley Family Distillery and blended by Jackie Zykan, Batch 23B features 70% corn, 20% rye, and 10% malted barley mashbill. Bottled at cask strength of 110.1 proof, it's known for its rich, buttery caramel corn base with notes of dark fruit and florals. Available for $74.99, it can be purchased at Neeley Family Distillery and in select states. For more details, visit hiddenbarnwhiskey.com.
Chicken Cock Unveils Limited Edition Island Rooster Rye Whiskey
Chicken Cock distillery has launched Island Rooster, a limited edition Kentucky Straight Rye finished in Caribbean rum barrels. This unique expression, inspired by the Caribbean's vibrant mornings, merges spicy rye notes with the sweetness of candied molasses from the rum casks. Bottled at 95 proof, Island Rooster offers an elegant nose of spices and molasses, a complex palate of vanilla, butterscotch, and pepper, and a long finish enriched by sweet molasses and a buttery mouthfeel. Priced at $199.99, this special release captures the essence of the Caribbean blended with Kentucky's Bluegrass heritage.
15 STARS Unveils Innovative Whiskey Blends with Three Kings and Timeless Reserve Releases
15 STARS has announced the release of Two new expressions: Three Kings Fine-Aged Whiskey and an updated 113-Year-Old Timeless Reserve Fine-Aged Bourbon. Three Kings blends premium wheat, rye, and bourbon whiskeys aged 11 and 15 years, offering notes of baking spice, ripe fruit, and ground pepper, balanced by a palate of persimmon pudding and candied fruit, with a finish of dark fruit and honey. Bottled at 107 proof, it is priced at $179. The 13-Year-Old Timeless Reserve, a blend of 13 and 15-year-old bourbons, features caramel, vanilla bean, and cherry on the nose, with a palate of vanilla extract, molasses, and dried banana, finishing with caramel, leather, and seasoned oak. Bottled at 103 proof, it is priced at $279. Both releases are available nationwide and online.
Bourbon & Belonging: Kentucky’s Queer Bourbon Week Announces Exciting Lineup
Queer Kentucky's new event, Bourbon & Belonging, will take place from October 2-6, showcasing Kentucky’s bourbon and hospitality culture to LGBTQ+ visitors. The inclusive event will span eight regions, including Bardstown, Lexington, Louisville, and Northern Kentucky, offering activities like a single barrel selection in Lexington, a disco-themed pool party in Louisville, and a bourbon and burlesque show in Northern Kentucky. The week will also feature cocktail classes, bourbon 101 lessons, distillery tours, drag brunches, and more. Partnering distilleries include New Riff Distilling and Second Sight Spirits, while host hotels include 21c Museum Hotels and Hotel Covington. The event will raise funds for Queer Kentucky and other local LGBTQ+ organizations. For more details and tickets, visit bourbonandbelonging.com.
Discover Kentucky's Bourbon Country with Come Find Bourbon
Whether you're a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or a curious newcomer, Come Find Bourbon is your gateway to exploring Kentucky's rich bourbon culture in Covington, Frankfort, and Bardstown. Their website offers a wealth of resources, including fun facts, thoughtful itineraries for extended stays, and trip tips on souvenirs and dining options. It’s a comprehensive guide that highlights where to stay, book tours, and directly links to the local tourism bureaus of each city. Plus, their free passport feature lets you check in at each stop, earn points, and claim rewards. Dive into authentic bourbon experiences and start planning your trip with Come Find Bourbon for an unforgettable journey through Kentucky’s bourbon heritage.
Buzzard’s Roost Unveils First Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon
Buzzard’s Roost Sipping Whiskey has expanded its lineup with a new Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon, marking their first foray into this category. Featuring a mash bill of 51% corn, 45% wheat, and 4% malted barley, this bourbon offers a silky texture and subtle sweetness from the wheat. It’s aged for five years and then undergoes secondary maturation in Char #1 barrels with proprietary toast levels. Distilled in 2018 and bottled at 100 proof, the bourbon has already received high praise from whiskey experts. Priced at $71.99, it’s available in 22 markets, online, and at Buzzard’s Roost’s Whiskey Row Experience in Louisville.
Reviving Bourbon Heritage: Dick Burks’ Burks Spring Bourbon
Dick Burks, a descendant of 18th-century bourbon maker George Richard Burks, is reviving his family's whiskey tradition with Burks Spring Bourbon. Originally produced on a farm in Loretto that later became Maker’s Mark, the Burks family bourbon was lost to Prohibition. Now, after garnering support from family and friends, Dick has recreated the original recipe, producing a high-rye, 100-proof bourbon. The initial batch, aged nearly six years, is crafted at Kentucky Artisan Distillery in Crestwood. Despite the challenges and time involved, Burks is excited to share his family’s authentic bourbon story and has begun distribution in select stores and restaurants.
Mead Day – August 3, 2024: A Toast to History and Craft
Mead Day is August 3, 2024, celebrating one of the world’s oldest alcoholic beverages. Originating around 7000 B.C. in Northern China and mentioned in ancient texts like the Rigveda, mead has a storied history as a revered nectar. Modern mead-making involves a meticulous process of fermentation, yielding a diverse range of flavors from sweet to dry. This year, join the festivities by sampling different meads, trying your hand at home brewing, hosting a mead-themed feast, or supporting local meaderies. Mead Day not only honors ancient traditions but also highlights the craft and creativity of mead-makers today. I encourage you to visit 1634 Meadery in Maine, Schramm’s Meadery and B.Nektar in Michigan, The Skeptic Meadery, Eagle's Claw Meadery and Honeytree Meadery in middle Tennessee, Four Brothers Mead and Burnt Barrel Meadery in Missouri, Superstition Meadery, Drinking Horn Meadery and Scale and Feather Meadery in Arizona or Honeygirl Meadery in North Carolina. These are a few of my favorite meaderies and if you do stop by one on Mead Day, tell them Walker (that’s me) sent you. It won’t get you anything special but it might be entertaining to see the look on their faces as they ask themselves, “Who the hell is Walker?” So see what all the buzz is about on August 3rd (and any other day). Cheers to this time-honored beverage and its enduring charm!
Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Batch 039 Release Announcement
Chattanooga Whiskey's Experimental Batch 039 (Harvest Bourbon) will launch on Friday, Aug. 2 at their Experimental Distillery. This batch features a unique 7-grain mash bill (see above), aged for 5 years in long-seasoned, custom-toasted casks. The details of this intriguing new release are still under wraps, but enthusiasts are encouraged to join their email list for early updates.
Introducing the 2024 Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame Inductees, Including the Hall’s First Black Chemist
The Kentucky Distillers' Association announced the 2024 inductees to the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame®, celebrating pioneers who have significantly impacted the bourbon industry. This year's honorees include Elmer Lucille Allen, the first Black chemist at Brown-Forman, and Dee Ford of Angel's Envy Distillery, known for her contributions to bourbon tourism. Ken Lewis, founder of New Riff Distilling and the driving force behind retail innovations, will receive the Parker Beam Lifetime Achievement Award. Other inductees are Peter T. Loftin, founder of Bardstown Bourbon Company, and Corky Taylor, who revived Kentucky Peerless Distilling. The induction ceremony will take place on September 10, 2024, during National Bourbon Heritage Month. For more information including biographies of all the inductees, click HERE.
Nebraska Governor Proposes Steep Increase in Spirits Tax
Nebraska rocket scientist Governor Jim Pillen has proposed a property tax plan that includes a dramatic increase in the excise tax rate for distilled spirits, from $3.75 to $14.50 per gallon—a 287% hike. This change would give Nebraska the second-highest spirits tax rate in the U.S. According to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS), this could result in a $110 million decline in alcohol sales and the loss of around 1,350 jobs. The plan aims to generate additional revenue for property tax relief by also increasing taxes on other "sin" items like cigarettes and vaping products. However, DISCUS argues that this tax hike will negatively impact consumers and businesses, including local farmers and the hospitality industry, urging legislators to reject the proposal.
Bulleit Releases Barrel Strength Batch 8
Bulleit Frontier Whiskey has unveiled its latest release, Barrel Strength Bourbon Batch 8, now available nationwide. This new batch is created from expertly curated whiskey barrels, blended without any added water, resulting in a robust flavor profile and darker color. With a high rye mash bill, similar to Bulleit Bourbon, Batch 8 is uncut and unfiltered, offering an ABV of 60.9% (121.8 proof). Packaged in Bulleit’s iconic bottle with a black label and orange accents, it retails for $59.99 for a 750 ml bottle. As always, Bulleit encourages responsible drinking for those 21 and older. Check out the scoop from Fred Minnick HERE.
Spirit Hound Distillers Unveils New Bottled-in-Bond Whisky and Single Barrel Rye
Colorado’s Spirit Hound Distillers is celebrating July with the release of two new whiskies: a 6-year Single Barrel Bottled-in-Bond American Single Malt and a 4½-year Single Barrel Colorado Rye. The Bottled-in-Bond designation, a mark of quality, requires the whisky to be aged at least four years, bottled at 100 proof, and made by one distiller at a single distillery in one season. Co-founder Craig Engelhorn emphasizes their commitment to quality with these releases. The single barrel rye, crafted from barley and heirloom Colorado rye, offers bold, spicy flavors and has been aged in American Oak casks. Both whiskies are available in Spirit Hound's Colorado tasting rooms and various retail locations across the state. Learn more at www.spirthounds.com.
Las Vegas Distillery Reopens After Major Renovation, Offering Unique Spirits and Experiences
Las Vegas Distillery in Henderson has reopened after a two-year renovation under new owner Rob Saucier, who purchased the distillery in July 2022. The revamped distillery features a tasting room, craft cocktails, bottle sales, and interactive tours. Master distiller Jonny Ver Planck leads the creation of small-batch spirits, including vodka, white rum, coffee liqueur, and limited-edition high-proof rum. They also offer "new make" bourbon and single-malt whiskey. Mixologist Cody Fredrickson's cocktails, like the Moscow mule and espresso martini, highlight housemade spirits, while tasting flights and educational insights cater to enthusiasts. The bites menu features local artisan bread, cheeses, charcuterie, pizzas, and snacks. The distillery is open Thursday to Sunday, offering tours that delve into distilling history and processes. For more information, visit lasvegasdistillery.com.
More Bourbon and Mead News
- West Overton Village Continues To Preserve Pennsylvania's Rich Whiskey History [CBS News]
- Honey Wine (Mead) Market to Hit $871.34 Million by 2030, Growing at 6.84% CAGR [OpenPR]
- Remus Babe Ruth Reserve Bourbon Review [PASTE]
- Why Are Bottles Like Eagle Rare, Weller, Blanton’s, And Pappy Van Winkle So Pricy, And So Hard To Find? [Food & Wine]
- The Best Micro Bourbon—According To The International Whisky Competition [Forbes]
- Yellowstone's Cole Hauser imports his ranch-inspired bourbon to Texas [CultureMap]
- We Asked Top Bourbon Influencers To Review The Most Hyped Bottles Online [UPROXX]
- The Best Distilleries In The Sf Bay Area [SFGATE]
- Southern Star Named Wyndham Championship Official Bourbon [YES! WEEKLKY]
Thanks for joining me on this latest journey through the world of bourbon and mead. I hope you found this update as exciting and enlightening as I did. Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or just starting to explore these delightful beverages, there’s always something new to discover. Keep sipping, stay curious, and I’ll catch you in the next edition. Cheers!