Bourbon Barrel Blurbs, Volume 02, Issue 21

Welcome to Bourbon Barrel Blurbs, your one-stop destination for the latest and most exciting news, stories, and updates from the world of bourbon. As passionate enthusiasts, we are dedicated to bringing you the most comprehensive and engaging content, covering everything from new distillery releases and innovative aging techniques to collaborations, events, and the rich history behind this beloved spirit. Whether you're a seasoned bourbon connoisseur or just beginning your journey, join us as we dive into the captivating world of bourbon and savor every drop of knowledge and inspiration it has to offer. Cheers!

 

Paso Robles Distillery Trail Weekend Offers a Unique Whiskey Experience

Photo courtesy of: Paso Robles Distillery Trail Weekend website

From August 11 to 13, 2023, whiskey enthusiasts can embark on a delightful journey through the Paso Robles Distillery Trail Weekend. The event promises to showcase the best of Paso Robles and other distilleries, featuring 13 establishments with specialty tastings, mixology demos, live music, food pairings, and more.

The best part? No tickets are required to participate. Visitors can simply pick up a map, explore at least 6 distilleries over the weekend, collect stamps, and receive a FREE limited edition Paso Robles Distillers Shot Glass as a reward.

For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the VIP treatment awaits with the Copper Card. This card grants access to free tastings, private tours, rare releases, and other perks, valid throughout the year.

The participating distilleries will host a variety of exciting activities during the event, including tours, tastings, cocktail demos, live music, and gourmet offerings. Highlights include a Bourbon & Cigars Party, cocktail seminars, and special spirit releases.

The 13 distilleries taking part in the event are Autry Cellars, Azeo, Bethel Rd. Distillery, Calwise Spirits Co., Donati, Grain + Vine, KROBAR Craft Distillery, Pendray's Distillery, RE:FIND Distillery, Rod & Hammer's SLO Stills, SLO de Vie Distillery, Tin City Distillery and Wine Shine Spirits, and Willow Creek Distillery.

While some distilleries may recommend reservations, they are not mandatory. Attendees are encouraged to explore the trail at their own pace and responsibly. In case of transportation needs, some tour partners may offer convenient options for a hassle-free weekend.

To find more information and exclusive Copper Card happenings, participants can refer to the provided map and FAQ section on the Distillery Trail Weekend 2023 website.

 

Reviving Black Hawk's Distilling Heritage at Artisans' Point

Photo courtesy of: The Rick Thomas Distillery website

Black Hawk, Colorado, known for its gambling destination, seeks to revive its distilling heritage with the Artisans' Point project. This initiative aims to host ten small-batch distilleries and breweries on Miner's Mesa, a 22-acre piece of land. The Rick Thomas Distillery, focusing on single-malt whiskey, bourbon, rye, and other spirits sourced from Colorado, was the first to start construction in 2021.

The distillery utilizes advanced technology to control temperature, volume, and fermentation in a temperature-controlled grain room. The spirits undergo rigorous testing before release and are distilled in copper stills. Nearly 300 bottles per barrel are produced, and the distillery plans to open a family-friendly tasting room in the future.

The building's design accounts for the windy terrain and future expansion plans include purchasing adjacent land with historical wood structures. The distillery's founder, Declan Watts, studied in Scotland, learning from traditional distillers, and aims to honor Black Hawk's distilling tradition.

Rick Thomas single malt whiskey is expected to hit stores by early 2024, with tastings available at the distillery's new location at 830 Miners Road, Black Hawk, around 2025.

Eight Settlers Distillery Expands Nationwide Availability of its Award-Winning Spirits

Photo courtesy of: Eight Settlers Distillery website

Eight Settlers Distillery, based in Cottonwood Heights, Utah, is excited to announce the nationwide availability of its award-winning craft spirits. Ragtown American Whiskey, Devil's Gate Bourbon, Butler Vodka, and Green Ditch Gin are now available for purchase online in non-controlled states such as CT, NY, IL, MA, FL, CA, and NJ. Founded in 2020 by Katia and Radu Dugala, the distillery draws inspiration from Cottonwood Heights' rich history, settled by eight families in the 1800s.

The distillery's portfolio includes four staple products, with seasonal releases to come. Ragtown American Whiskey boasts a unique blend of robust and smooth whiskeys with a complex finish. Devil's Gate Straight Bourbon Whiskey offers a delightful blend of oak, vanilla, and sweet flavors. Butler Vodka provides a smooth and medium-bodied taste, while Green Ditch Gin offers a refreshing herbal twist.

The founders, Katia and Radu Dugala, are thrilled to share their exceptional spirits with consumers nationwide. The distillery's story is deeply rooted in the history of Cottonwood Heights and the pioneering spirit of the original settlers, making it a brand with a unique and modern historical heritage.

Lynyrd Skynyrd Commemorates 50th Anniversary with Hell House Whiskey

Photo courtesy of: Hell House Whiskey website

In honor of their upcoming 50th anniversary, Lynyrd Skynyrd, in collaboration with craft whiskey maker Bespoken, is launching Hell House Whiskey, a new American Whiskey paying tribute to the iconic cabin where the band created its legendary music. The whiskey reflects the band's enduring popularity and captures their rock and roll spirit. Fans can purchase Hell House Whiskey online at a suggested retail price of $49.99 for a 750 ML bottle. Lynyrd Skynyrd is currently on tour with ZZ Top across North America until September 17, 2023.

Lycoming College and Four Birds Distilling Co. Collaborate on Bourbon Innovation

Photo courtesy of: Lycoming College website

Lycoming College and Four Birds Distilling Co. have joined forces to innovate bourbon production using ultrasound sonication technology. With a grant from The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, the collaborative research aims to produce high-quality bourbon in a shorter time frame and at a lower cost. The project involves testing different wood types, charring levels, and oxygen pressurization to create small bourbon batches in the college's laboratory. Once optimized, the process will be adapted for larger-scale production at Four Birds. The research team, including Lycoming College students, will use advanced chromatography techniques to ensure the quality of the final product. The project is a valuable learning experience for the students and aligns with the goal of creating sonication-aged bourbon within a year.

 

The B-Line® Adds Two New Stops to its Bourbon Adventure

Photo courtesy of: Augusta Distillery website

The B-Line®, Northern Kentucky's self-guided bourbon experience, celebrates the addition of two new stops: Pensive Distilling and Augusta Distillery. These two establishments have been officially included in The B-Line® after joining the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour®. The Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour® showcases 28 distillers known for their micro-distilling craftsmanship, as organized by the Kentucky Distillers' Association. The inclusion of Pensive Distilling Co. and Augusta Distillery enhances Northern Kentucky's reputation as the starting point for an exciting bourbon adventure. The region looks forward to welcoming more visitors interested in exploring its rich heritage in spirits and invites them to experience these two new stops along The B-Line®. Augusta Distillery, recently awarded the title of the best bourbon in the world at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, is a highlight not to be missed.

Woodford Reserve Collaborates with the University of Kentucky for Sustainable Rye Sourcing

Renowned bourbon producer Woodford Reserve has partnered with the University of Kentucky and a local trade group to source a locally grown and environmentally sustainable strain of rye for their bourbon production. Currently, a significant portion of Woodford Reserve's rye is sourced from outside Kentucky and even outside the country. The distillery's new initiative aims to build climate resilience and support local agricultural communities by using rye from Kentucky farmers. The five-year pilot program will test 10 varieties of rye, examining their impact on bourbon production. Apart from the economic benefits, using regenerative rye as a cover crop can enhance soil health and sustainability. A successful project will result in a stable, productive rye market closer to home, reducing transportation costs, and benefiting both the land and the regional economy.

Jack Daniel's Introduces Distillery Series Selection #11

Photo courtesy of: Jack Daniel's

Jack Daniel's, renowned for its Old No. 7 Tennessee whiskey, continues to intrigue whiskey enthusiasts with its latest offering: Distillery Series selection #11. This Tennessee whiskey undergoes a unique finishing process in tequila barrels, resulting in a distinctive flavor profile. The Distillery Series releases, available at the distillery and select Tennessee retailers, offer smaller bottles with specialty expressions. The new selection begins with classic Jack whiskey aged in new charred American white oak barrels for at least four years. It is then finished in barrels previously used to mature añejo tequila for one year and seven months, adding distinct flavors to the whiskey. The resulting expression offers a unique twist on Tennessee whiskey, with tasting notes featuring sweet citrus, agave, oak, brown sugar, and dried spices. Bottled at 90 proof and priced at $42, this new release is available at the White Rabbit Bottle Shop and select locations in Tennessee.

Grand Traverse Distillery and Send Brothers Farm's Sustainable Partnership

Grand Traverse Distillery in northern Michigan has formed a beneficial partnership with Send Brothers Farm, a Traverse City area farm, to source all the grains required for making alcohol. The distillery uses corn, wheat, and rye from the farm to produce vodka and whiskey, focusing on incorporating Michigan agriculture into its products. The collaboration began in 2006 when the distillery sought local ingredients and found Send Brothers Farm more than willing to provide their grains for Michigan-made products. After harvesting the wheat and rye, Send Brothers Farm delivers the grains to the distillery, where they are used to produce alcohol. The remaining mash, containing about 16-17% protein, is picked up by local farms, including Moomers Ice Cream. The protein-rich mash benefits the cows, resulting in increased milk production. The cycle continues as the leftover mash is returned to the dairy farm as fertilizer for the farm's operations. This collaboration between three local companies showcases an eco-friendly and sustainable approach, with each party utilizing the by-products of the others in their respective processes.

Catoctin Creek To Release Ragnarok Rye: Oderus Edition

Photo courtesy of: Catoctin Creek Distilling Company website

As the tenth anniversary of Oderus Urungus' passing approaches, Catoctin Creek Distilling Company, The Virginia Rye Whisky℠, is thrilled to continue their partnership with GWAR with the release of the highly anticipated Ragnarök Rye: Oderus Edition. This special bottling pays homage to the legendary frontman of intergalactic warriors and shock rock legends, GWAR. The bold and spicy Ragnarök Rye whisky is adorned with a label featuring Oderus Urungus himself, hand-drawn by the late Dave Brockie. With a commemorative pewter bartop showcasing Oderus, this whisky is a fitting tribute to his larger-than-life personality and unapologetic irreverence. Crafted from the award-winning 100% rye whisky, aged with white oak, sugar maple, and cherrywood, this year's expression adds an exciting twist with a rum-finished barrel. With only up to 200 cases available, enthusiasts can raise a glass to Oderus Urungus' immortal spirit as Ragnarök Rye: Oderus Edition hits the shelves in Catoctin Creek's national distribution footprint and online store from August 1st. Hail Oderus!

In conclusion, Bourbon Barrel Blurbs offers a delightful journey into the world of bourbon, bringing you the latest updates, trends, and innovations in the industry. From new distillery collaborations and unique finishing techniques to sustainable sourcing practices and regional partnerships, the world of bourbon is constantly evolving. Whether you're a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or just starting your whiskey exploration, Bourbon Barrel Blurbs provides a comprehensive and engaging platform to stay informed and inspired. So, raise your glass and toast to the rich history and exciting future of bourbon as we continue to savor the artistry and craftsmanship behind this beloved spirit. Cheers!