Showing posts with label bourbon lottery. Show all posts

Monday, April 1, 2024

B&M Digest, Volume I, Issue 07

Welcome to the latest edition of B&M Digest, where we dive into the world of bourbon and mead, exploring the latest trends, innovations, and stories from the vibrant communities surrounding these beloved beverages. From veteran-owned distilleries making waves on the international stage to local artisans crafting unique and flavorful meads, we're here to bring you the latest updates and insights from the thriving bourbon and mead scene. So grab a glass, settle in, and let's toast to the remarkable individuals and flavors shaping the landscape of Bourbon and Mead today.

Woodford Reserve's $15,000 Thrice-Barreled Derby Whiskey: Is It Worth It?

Woodford Reserve, not typically associated with ultra-luxury spirits, surprises with its latest release: a $15,000 Derby-themed whiskey. This "thrice-barreled" gem boasts a unique aging process, starting with standard bourbon aged 5-7 years, followed by 8 years in a Cognac cask, and finally finishing in oak staves seasoned at the Churchill Downs Winner’s Circle. While the symbolism of the Derby-seasoned oak is strong, it's the extended aging and Cognac cask that truly elevate the whiskey's flavor profile. Master distiller Elizabeth McCall explains the meticulous process behind this limited edition, emphasizing the importance of packaging and liquid quality. Tasting notes reveal a rich palate with cherry syrup, caramel, vanilla custard, and more. With only 150 bottles, each encased in Baccarat crystal and gold-infused stoppers, this whiskey appeals to hardcore Woodford fans and collectors alike. While undeniably delicious, its hefty price tag prompts consideration of personal value and budget. For those with the means and a taste for exceptional spirits, this unique offering is a must-try. For the full article, click HERE.

A. Smith Bowman’s French Oak Series: Whiskey Available Only Through a Lottery

Virginia's esteemed A. Smith Bowman distillery introduces its latest gem: the Abraham Bowman Oak Series, an experimental collection of whiskies. This series delves into cask maturation in various oak types worldwide and explores the impact of barrel charring on flavor. The inaugural release features whiskey aged in French Oak barrels, blending charred and uncharred liquid to create a dynamic blend with notes of cherry, caramel, vanilla, spice, cinnamon, and apple. Head Distiller David Bock highlights the exciting nuances brought by French Oak, hinting at future explorations in the Abraham Bowman collection. To acquire a bottle, enthusiasts must enter a lottery running from April 4th to 11th, with winners announced on April 15th. Each 750ml bottle, priced at $99.99, offers a chance to savor this limited-edition delight, reinforcing A. Smith Bowman's reputation for innovation and craftsmanship.

Sinuous Bourbon: Empowering Women, Crafting History, One Sip at a Time

In the traditionally male-dominated world of whiskey and bourbon, Erica Sutherlin is making waves with Sinuous Bourbon, adding her name to a small but growing group of women distillers. Inspired by childhood memories and a passion for the craft, Sutherlin's dream became a reality with the launch of her unique bourbon blend. Named for its winding and curvy character, Sinuous Bourbon embodies the essence of a brown woman, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of pepper, finishing smooth on the palate. Sutherlin's journey from dream to bottle is a testament to perseverance and empowerment, epitomizing the spirit of female entrepreneurship. Bottled at a Black-owned distillery, Dunamis in Zephyrhills, Sinuous is not just a bourbon but a symbol of representation and inspiration for women everywhere. With plans to expand distribution, Sutherlin aims to share her creation with women-owned establishments across the country, ensuring that the legacy of Sinuous Bourbon inspires generations to come.

Jack Daniel’s and McLaren Rev Up with 2024 Limited-Edition Bottle

In a collaboration that merges the worlds of whiskey and racing, Jack Daniel’s and Formula 1 team McLaren unveil their latest limited-edition bottle for 2024. Riding the wave of Formula 1's surging popularity in the U.S., this partnership capitalizes on the excitement surrounding the sport's expansion with new races in Miami and Las Vegas. The new bottle design, dubbed a "papaya twist," pays homage to McLaren's iconic colors, featuring bold orange and black racing stripes that intersect the classic Old No. 7 logo. Jack Daniel’s global brand director, Jamie Butler, expresses pride in the collaboration, highlighting both brands' commitment to boldness and authenticity. While the whiskey inside remains true to its roots as classic Old No. 7, fans can anticipate a thrilling fan experience and continued innovation in the new race season. Available in select U.S. markets and F1 race cities internationally, this commemorative bottle is a must-have for enthusiasts of both fast cars and fine whiskey.

Introducing Superstition Meadery's Spectacular Lineup: A Mead Connoisseur's Dream

Superstition Meadery unveils a tantalizing array of meads sure to entice any enthusiast. The Grand Cru Berry boasts a delightful blend of raspberry, blackberry, blueberry, strawberry, white chocolate, and vanilla, aged in double barrels, offering a symphony of flavors at 13.5% ABV for $59 per bottle. Ma Petite Chouchen, priced at $69 per bottle, delivers a sophisticated apple mead crafted from organic Arizona apples and buckwheat honey, aged in fine French oak barrels for 12 months, with a potent 16% ABV. Spicy Sips tantalizes the taste buds with a mango margarita-inspired mead, featuring dried Hatch chilis and sea salt, aged in tequila barrels for 30 months, at 17.5% ABV for $39 per bottle. Jalapiña brings a zesty twist with pineapple and jalapeño margarita-inspired mead, also aged in tequila barrels for 30 months, priced at $39 per bottle with the same ABV. Rounding off the lineup is Rita de la Musa, a smoked margarita-inspired mead infused with limes and oranges, aged in tequila barrels for 30 months, boasting an impressive 18.5% ABV for $39 per bottle. Available from Saturday, March 30th, at all three locations, with possible online availability from Tuesday, April 2nd, this collection promises a journey of exquisite flavors and unparalleled craftsmanship. For more information, visit: https://superstitionmeadery.com/.

Michter’s Unveils 2024 Batch of 10-Year-Old Bourbon: A Toast to Persistence and Quality

Michter’s Bourbon aficionados rejoice as the revered Louisville distillery announces the release of its 2024 batch of 10-year-old bourbon, marking a triumphant return following persistent supply challenges. Master of maturation, Andrea Wilson, lauds the expression's maturity, boasting a rich nose, creamy texture, and a palate teeming with nuanced flavors that crescendo into a delightful finish. Despite grappling with high demand, Michter’s remains steadfast in its commitment to quality, strategically withholding coveted expressions while expanding operations. Notable among recent releases is the long-awaited comeback of the Toasted Barrel Finish rye, a testament to the brand's dedication to excellence. The 10-Year Kentucky Straight Bourbon, bottled at 47.2% ABV, is set to hit shelves in April, priced at $185 MSRP. With its limited-edition status, enthusiasts are advised to act swiftly to secure a bottle of this exceptional libation.

Eric LeGrand Bourbon: A Spirit of Resilience, Compassion, and Hope

In the face of adversity, Eric LeGrand, former Rutgers University football player turned inspirational figure, has embarked on a journey of resilience, compassion, and hope. Following a tragic spinal cord injury in 2010, LeGrand defied expectations, transforming devastation into inspiration by founding Team LeGrand and raising over $2 million for the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation. Now, LeGrand introduces Eric LeGrand Bourbon, a Kentucky straight bourbon crafted to challenge stigmas surrounding disabilities and offer a quality libation for all to enjoy. With a mash bill of 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% barley, this bourbon, distilled by Green River Distillery and bottled at 88 proof, embodies patience, precision, and trust in the process—qualities mirrored in LeGrand's recovery journey. Inspired by the legacy of Uncle Nearest, LeGrand is committed to giving back to the community and supporting the Reeve Foundation, donating $5.20 for every case sold, symbolizing his Rutgers jersey number. Already, the bourbon has made a significant impact, with proceeds supporting innovative research and providing vital support for individuals and families affected by paralysis. LeGrand's dedication extends beyond bourbon, as he continues to advocate for disability rights and remains unwavering in his belief in a brighter future. With aspirations to expand distribution and make a monumental contribution to the Reeve Foundation, Eric LeGrand Bourbon stands as a testament to the power of perseverance, compassion, and the human spirit. For more information, visit: https://www.ericlegrandwhiskey.com/.

Fawn Weaver: Shaping the Landscape of Whiskey and Awareness

Fawn Weaver, the visionary behind Uncle Nearest spirits, is not merely in the business of whiskey; she's on a mission to ignite change and foster awareness. As the driving force behind Uncle Nearest, Weaver has not only crafted exceptional whiskey but has also brought to light the legacy of Nearest Green, the first African American master distiller. Through her work, Weaver has transcended the boundaries of traditional spirits entrepreneurship, using Uncle Nearest as a platform to honor history, celebrate diversity, and empower communities. With each sip of Uncle Nearest, drinkers are invited to partake in a journey of discovery and appreciation, guided by Weaver's unwavering commitment to authenticity and inclusivity. Beyond the bottle, Weaver's advocacy extends to initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and social justice within the spirits industry. Through her passion and dedication, Fawn Weaver is not only shaping the landscape of whiskey but also raising awareness and inspiring positive change. Click HERE to read this absolutely wonderful article on Fawn from Marie Claire.

From Pushing Brooms to Crafting Spirits: The Journey of Lone Light Spirits

Joseph Lordon's path from a modest beginning pushing a broom at Two James Spirits to creating his own distillery, Lone Light Spirits, is a testament to his passion for creation. After studying logistics management and marketing at Central Michigan University and spending time in the music industry, Lordon found his true calling in the distilling world. Despite facing initial rejections, he persevered and eventually became head distiller at Two James Spirits before venturing out on his own. Lone Light Spirits, born out of Lordon's dedication and love for the craft, offers a range of premium spirits, including vodka, gin, and bourbon. Lordon's attention to detail extends beyond the distillation process, as he incorporates hidden Michigan-inspired elements into each label, adding a unique touch to his creations. With his sights set on expansion, Lordon aims to make a mark in the Michigan market before venturing into other states. His dedication, coupled with his innovative spirit, promises a bright future for Lone Light Spirits in the world of craft distilling.

Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company Sweeps Prestigious Spirits Competition

Lawrenceburg Bourbon Company (LBC), founded and operated by combat veterans, made a significant splash at the Monterey International Spirits Competition in California. Their flagship whiskey, "One Cask Bourbon," earned top honors, securing a Platinum Medal with a remarkable score of 99 points and was named Spirit of the Year and Best Whiskey. Judges praised its complex flavor profile, solidifying its status as a standout spirit. LBC also received Gold Medals for their Very Small Batch - Breakfast Bourbon and Ten x Ten Rye Whiskey, among others, further solidifying their reputation for excellence. This success comes on the heels of their recognition at the American Craft Spirits Awards, where their One Cask Rye was named Best in Class. Greg Keeley, Founder and Distiller at LBC expressed his excitement at the national and international recognition, highlighting the dedication of his team to crafting exceptional spirits. Rich Cook, Director and Chief Judge of the awards, commended the entrants for their outstanding achievements, affirming their place among the finest in the world. LBC's success underscores its commitment to quality and innovation in the craft distilling industry.

Other Bourbon and Mead News

As we conclude another edition of B&M Digest, we raise our glasses to the incredible journey through the world of bourbon and mead. From the inspiring stories of distillers and brewers to the exquisite flavors waiting to be discovered, our exploration continues to uncover the richness and diversity of these timeless libations. Join us again soon for more exciting updates, tasting notes, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the fascinating realm of bourbon and mead. Until next time, cheers to the endless possibilities that await in every sip!

Wednesday, February 15, 2023

Bourbon Barrel Blurbs, Volume 02, Issue 04

Hey there, Bourbon lovers! I'm excited to bring you to the latest addition to Bourbon Barrel Blurbs. We have some blurbs about Pinhook Bourbon, BH James Distillery, JK Williams Distillery, Claire Marin and Pollinator Spirits, and bourbon lotteries in Virginia and Pennsylvania. Also looking at Barrel Bourbon, Old Line Spirits. Alpha Brewing Co., Tattersall Distilling, Horse Soldier, Ole Smokey, and Breckenridge Distillery. Hope you enjoy!

Robb Report’s Review of Pinhook Collaboration Series #2

Pinhook Collaboration Series #2

This is a great write-up on the Pinhook Collaboration Series, especially the latest release made in collaboration with Garrett Oliver, the brewmaster at Brooklyn Brewery. The collaboration between the whiskey maker, Sean Josephs, and Oliver, who has extensive experience in beer and spirits, has resulted in a high-quality bourbon with a rich, complex flavor profile. Despite being distilled and aged for only four years, this high-rye bourbon has a palate that belies its young age, with notes of caramel, molasses, vanilla custard, and apple tart leading off on the palate.

It is also great to see that the proceeds from the sales of this bottle will be donated to The Michael James Jackson Foundation for Brewing and Distilling, an organization founded by Oliver to award scholarships to people of color who want to pursue brewing and distilling education. This not only helps support a good cause but also acknowledges the difficulties that people of color face in entering the craft brewing industry.

Overall, this Pinhook bourbon is a truly pleasurable high-proof drinking experience that is worth trying and sharing with friends.

Find the full article HERE.

BH James Distillery Open

Shawn McCormick has created a distillery, BH James, that is rooted in his family's history and heritage. Named after his great-grandfather Burton James and great-grandmother James Lake, his vodka and bourbon spirits are a tribute to his hometown of Adairville, Kentucky. McCormick's background in food science and his inspiration from the Bourbon Trail motivated him to start his own distillery, and it is now a reality on Gallatin road. Although the still is not yet open for tastings and tours, visitors can still swing by Thursday through Saturday to purchase a bottle or two. For more information, you can visit the website at http://burtonjameswhiskey.com.

Local Distillery Closing Its Doors… For Good?

Courtesy of JK Williams Distillery's Website

It's always sad to see a business close, but the owner of JK Williams Distillery in Peoria is determined to keep the business going, whether that means relocating or finding a new location in central Illinois. With awards for their products, there's no doubt that the distillery has a following and the potential to succeed in the future. Hopefully, they will be able to find a new location that meets their requirements and continue to produce high-quality spirits.

Meet The Queen Bee Of Catskills Spirits

Courtesy of Pollinator Spirits Website

Claire Marin, owner and head distiller of Pollinator Spirits, formerly known as Catskill Provisions, is a woman who is making waves in the male-dominated craft distilling industry. Marin started her journey as a beekeeper in 2003 and soon became enamored with the magical world of bees. She quit her full-time job to pursue beekeeping, eventually launching Catskills Provisions in 2010 to sell honey to chefs in New York City. As the farm distilling movement grew around her, Marin became interested in the art of distilling and eventually opened her own distillery in 2013, launching a line of spirits sourced from local farms in the Catskills and Finger Lakes regions.

Pollinator Spirits offers a range of spirits, including a rye whiskey, finished in honey barrels, two gins, a vodka, a maple bourbon, and a Crimson Amaro. The vodka is described as “expressive” due to the honey used in the fermentation process, while the Beespoke Gin is distilled using wines from the Finger Lakes, giving it a floral kick.

Marin is one of only a few female distillers in the country and is now ready to expand beyond New York, beginning national distribution directly to consumers in March. The rebranding to Pollinator Spirits is not only linked to this expansion but is also meant to bring attention to the importance of pollinators, an issue close to Marin’s heart, as she still has between 175 and 200 hives and is always supporting bees. Read the full article HERE.

Virginia ABC Announce Online Lotteries For Pappy

Image courtesy of Virginia ABC

Due to its popularity and limited supply, Pappy Van Winkle can be difficult to find, which is why the Virginia ABC is holding lotteries to give Virginia residents a better chance of purchasing a bottle. The online lottery entry forms will be available for five days, and winners will be selected at random. To claim their prize, the winner must be a Virginia resident over the age of 21 and must present a valid Virginia photo identification that matches the name and address on the winner's entry at the time of purchase. Click HERE for details.

Barrell Bourbon Batch 034 Released By Barrell Craft Spirits

Barrell Bourbon Batch 034

Barrell Craft Spirits is known for its blending expertise and for creating unique, aged, cask-strength sourced whiskey and rum. Barrell Bourbon Batch 034 is a blend of whiskey aged for 6, 8, 10, and 15 years. The flavor profile of this bourbon is robust and sophisticated, with distinct tasting notes.

On the nose, it has notes of eggnog and madeleines, dry hard cider, and a range of florals such as elderflower and violet. As it sits, the fruit transitions to a more cooked character, displaying dried apricot, candied orange peel, and mulled cider.

The palate begins with blackcurrant jam and grape soda, followed by classic notes of cinnamon donut, warm cola, orange, umami, and salt. The finish is long and sustained by modest tannin, with notes of shiso, licorice root, and a fudgy peanut butter cup.

A splash of spring water reveals an initially perfumed character with notes of petrichor, jasmine tea, and apple cider vinegar, but when it settles, a deep rancio character comes out, with notes of leafy and nutty flavors.

For more information, visit The Bourbon Flight, Whiskey Raiders, or Barrell Craft Spirits.

Unicorns In Pennsylvania?

The Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board has scheduled three limited-release lotteries that will allow those who register the chance to purchase from a total of 814 bottles of rare whiskeys and bourbons. State residents and liquor licensees will have until 5 pm Friday, Feb. 17, to opt into one or more of the lotteries and/or drawings Full details can be found HERE.

Old Line Spirits Double Oak Series Sherry Cask

Old Line Spirits Double Oak Series Sherry Cask

It seems that the demand for Old Line Spirits' annual release has increased significantly since winning an award in Fred Minnick's Ascot Awards last year. The product is a single malt made from 100% malted barley, aged for five years in new American white oak, and then aged for another year in sherry casks. It is bottled at 100 proof and has classic notes of caramel, brown sugar, and tobacco, with additional complexities of stone fruit, nuts, and raisins, according to co-founder Arch Watkins.

The American Single Malt Double Oak Series Sherry Cask Finish will be available in certain states, including Maryland, D.C., Delaware, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, and Colorado, at a suggested retail price of $64.99 for a 750-ml. bottle.

Alpha Brewing Co. to Add Distillery

Alpha Brewing Co., based in St. Louis, has announced that it will open a distillery in 2023. The company has been brewing beer since 2013 and currently sells its sour and barrel-aged beers in over 200 locations in St. Louis and nationally.

According to owner and lead brewer Derrick Langeneckert, the Brewstillery will feature a 2,300-square-foot tasting room, a 1,200-square-foot distilling space, and a small kitchen that will serve St. Louis-style pizza and snacks. The distillery will produce three brown spirits (whiskeys, ryes, or bourbons), as well as a new line of fruited vodkas called Squoosch.

Tattersall Distilling Launches Interstate American Single Malt Whiskey

Tattersall Distilling has launched its first American single malt whiskey, Interstate Whiskey, which has been aged for four years in virgin oak barrels and distilled from a blend of 100% malted barley, including Wisconsin cherry wood smoked and dark roasted malts. The result is a complex whiskey with rich notes of chocolate, cherry and a hint of coffee. It is available for purchase in Minnesota and Wisconsin at an MSRP of $45 for a 750ml bottle. The whiskey complies with the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission requirements. Interstate Whiskey is now available for purchase in select retail stores, restaurants and bars across Minnesota and Wisconsin. Please visit www.tattersalldistilling.com for more information.

Raise a Glass of Horse Soldier Bourbon

Nice little article from Horse Canada that discusses a group of former Green Berets who developed a brand of bourbon inspired by their time fighting the Taliban in Afghanistan. The soldiers became known as the Horse Soldiers because of their use of Afghan horses to navigate the mountainous terrain. After returning home, the soldiers toured distilleries in Kentucky, Ireland, and Scotland to learn about whiskey making, and eventually developed their own brand of bourbon, Horse Soldier Bourbon. The brand is made in Kentucky but has its headquarters in St. Petersburg, Florida, where there is a tasting room, restaurant, and event facility called Urban Stillhouse. The brand has won several awards and is available in 16 US states. The article notes that the soldiers' dream is to build more restaurants and a new distillery in Kentucky. Read the full article HERE.

Ole Smoky Again Named the Most Visited Distillery in the World In 2022

Ole Smoky Distilleries, a leading distiller of premium moonshine and craft whiskey, has once again been named the most visited distillery in the world. The company's four locations in Tennessee welcomed over 5.3 million visitors in 2022, including 2.3 million at The Holler in Gatlinburg, 1.1 million at The Barrelhouse in Gatlinburg, 1.2 million at The Barn in Pigeon Forge, and over 700,000 at 6th & Peabody in Nashville. By comparison, Ole Smoky entertains more guests than all of Scotland's 140 distilleries combined and more than double the number of visitors who visited all 42 distilleries on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail in 2022. The success of Ole Smoky is attributed to innovative and great tasting new products, a lively atmosphere, employees who provide great hospitality, and exciting events at the distilleries. Ole Smoky's 25 moonshine flavors and 17 whiskey flavors can be found in all 50 U.S. states and over 20 countries where liquor is sold. Read the full article HERE

Breckenridge Distillery Strikes Gold at 2023 World Whiskies Awards

The 2023 World Whiskies Awards awarded to Breckenridge Two Clans, Collectors Art Series #2 and Breckenridge High Proof

Breckenridge Distillery has received three awards at Whisky Magazine's 2023 World Whiskies Awards. The distillery, which is located in Colorado, was awarded Best American Blended Malt, Best American Blended Limited Release, and Best American Blended. The awards were given for Breckenridge Two Clans, Collectors Art Series #2, and Breckenridge 105 High Proof, respectively. The World Whiskies Awards received over 1,300 submissions from across the US, and the awards were judged by over 200 judges. Breckenridge Distillery is known for being the world's highest distillery and is one of the most awarded craft distilleries in the United States. You can read the full press release HERE.

Hey folks, that's all for now! Thanks for hanging out and reading this post. I hope you had a good time and maybe learned a thing or two. If you enjoyed it, feel free to share with your friends and spread the love. I'll catch y'all next time with some more BBB. Take care and have a great day!

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