B&M Digest, Volume I, Issue 10
B&M Digest, Volume I, Issue 10
Make Sure to Support Your Local Meaderies on Mead Day (Aug. 3rd)
Welcome to this edition of the Bourbon & Mead Digest! As we dive into the latest updates from the world of spirits, prepare to explore exciting developments in both bourbon and mead. From innovative meadery launches and unique bourbon releases to industry milestones and upcoming events, we've got a rich blend of news and stories to savor. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or just starting your journey, there's something here to tickle your taste buds and expand your knowledge. Let's raise a glass and toast to the fascinating world of bourbon and mead!
Celebrate Mead Day on August 3rd
Raise your glasses and join the fun as we celebrate Mead Day! This annual event, initiated by the American Homebrewers Association, is dedicated to all things mead – a delicious and historic honey wine enjoyed for centuries. Mead Day is the perfect opportunity for both seasoned enthusiasts and curious newcomers to dive into the rich history and delightful flavors of this ancient beverage.
Whether you're brewing your batch or simply enjoying a glass from your favorite meadery, Mead Day is about appreciating the craft and community around mead-making. Many local meaderies and brewing clubs host special events, tastings, and workshops, offering a chance to learn more about the diverse styles and techniques involved in creating mead.
Take a moment to savor the sweet and complex notes that make mead so unique. Try out different varieties like traditional, melomel (fruit mead), or metheglin (spiced mead) to explore the wide range of flavors. Share your experiences and favorite meads with friends and fellow enthusiasts, either in person or online.
History and Mythology Guide Lily Weichberger’s Quest for Good Mead
Lily Weichberger's love for mead, inspired by legendary tales, led her to start home brewing after finding U.S. meads lacking compared to those in Great Britain. In 2015, she and Michael Garcia founded Oran Mor meadery in Roseburg, Oregon, emphasizing education to introduce more people to mead. They’ve seen the mead industry grow from about 90 to over 500 meaderies nationwide. Oran Mor's unique approach combines historical, mythological, and modern practices to create balanced meads suitable for food pairing. Participating in numerous festivals and opening a new tasting room in Portland, they aim to broaden public perception and create a welcoming community space with various events. For the full story, click HERE.
Caesars Southern Indiana Set to Host Inaugural Bourbon and Boxing Event
Mark your calendars for September 13th as Caesars Southern Indiana, in collaboration with Andromeda Media and Film Group, hosts its inaugural Bourbon and Boxing event. This black-tie affair combines the thrill of professional boxing with the elegance of premium bourbon tastings, marking the first boxing event at Caesars in over a decade. The eight-card bout will feature fighters from Mexico, Puerto Rico, Russia, and the U.S., culminating in an exciting title fight. Ticket prices range from $75 to $250 and can be purchased online or at the door. For more details, visit bourbonandboxingllc.com.
1845 Distilling Co. New Releases Coming Soon
Exciting news from 1845 Distilling Co.! Their Double Oak labels have been approved, and the final touches are being made for printing, with a release coming soon. In an interesting twist of fate during the Covid pandemic, 1845's inability to acquire new barrels led to the creation of an unexpected whiskey. With no new charred oak barrels available, they aged their “Would Be Bourbon” in used barrels, resulting in a unique whiskey. Also, keep an eye out for the upcoming release of Texian No. 1.
Northern Colorado Whiskey Wins Big Time Award
The Heart Distillery in Windsor, Colorado, is celebrating a major achievement as their Small Batch Cask Strength Bourbon won top honors in the Cask Strength Bourbon category at the 2024 Bartender Spirits Awards. The Heart Distillery, established in 2018, has become renowned for its craft spirits, including gin, vodka, absinthe, and award-winning whiskey. The tasting notes for their celebrated bourbon include hints of cherries, vanilla, chocolate, mint, and a sweet, hot rye finish with a lingering lemon aftertaste. This latest accolade adds to the seven awards the distillery has won since 2019. You can visit their tasting room at 6461 Colorado Highway 392 to purchase a 750ml bottle of this 123-proof bourbon for $99. For more information, visit theheartdistillery.com.
World Whiskey Society Unveils 2 American Single Malts Honoring Wyatt Earp
The World Whiskey Society has launched two new American single malts in tribute to legendary Old West sheriff Wyatt Earp. The Wyatt Earp Barrel Proof American Single Malt, retailing at $95.50, and the Wyatt Earp Small Batch, priced at $59.99, offer distinct profiles celebrating Earp's bold and complex character. The Barrel Proof, with a mashbill of 100% malted barley and a proof range of 120-135, features aromas of dark chocolate-covered citrus, with a pepper and mint palate and a lingering finish. The Small Batch, at 96 proof, shares similar dark chocolate citrus aromas with added vanilla and bread notes, and flavors of fig and menthol. Both bottles include unique design elements like crossing pistols and a US Marshal’s badge. This launch follows the Society's recent release of a Japanese single malt finished in bourbon and ruby port barrels, crafted with the expertise of renowned distiller Chip Tate. For details, check out this great article from Bottle Raiders.
Introducing Survivors Cut Bourbon Whiskey: Wilmington's First Legal Bourbon Since Prohibition
EOD Distillery is thrilled to announce the launch of Survivors Cut Bourbon Whiskey, Wilmington, North Carolina’s first legally produced bourbon since prohibition. This exceptional small-batch bourbon, aged just under 5 years in new American oak casks by Black Water Cooperage, boasts a mash bill of 68% corn, 22% 2-row malted barley, and 10% rye. Bottled at 93 proof (46.5% ALC/VOL), it offers a deep amber color with inviting notes of warm bread, oak, vanilla, and caramel, and a hint of spice from the rye. Survivors Cut Bourbon Whiskey is unfiltered, allowing for a rich, full-bodied experience with a lingering finish. Each 750ml bottle reflects the care and craftsmanship that went into every step of its creation. Don't miss the chance to savor this historic spirit. Cheers to history in a bottle!
Old Forester Launches New Edition of Esteemed President's Choice Bourbon
Old Forester has released a new limited-edition summer bottling of its highly coveted President's Choice bourbon. Originating in 1964, this series, named after former Brown-Forman President George Garvin Brown II, features hand-selected barrels aged from seven to 12 years, with proofs ranging between 105 and 120. Although this release is the largest to date, it remains a rare find with a suggested retail price of $225, available only at the distillery, select Kentucky retailers or the official website. Known for other notable releases like the 117 Series and the annual Birthday Bourbon, Old Forester continues to captivate bourbon enthusiasts with its exceptional offerings.
Ohio's Largest Distillery Expands to Rival Kentucky Bourbon Trail
Middle West Spirits, Ohio's largest distillery, has significantly expanded with a new 75,000 sq. ft. facility in East Columbus, aiming to boost production and tourism. CEO Ryan Lang highlights their commitment to local agriculture, sourcing grains and barrels from Ohio. The new site, primarily producing whiskey, complements their smaller distillery and restaurant, Service Bar, in the Short North. Plans for the future include developing a "whiskey campus" with hospitality amenities to attract visitors, similar to California's wineries and Kentucky's distilleries. Lang envisions the distillery as a central hub for events, barrel selections, and culinary experiences, enhancing the region's appeal. With Ohio's growth and new businesses like Intel moving in, Middle West Spirits aims to be a significant player in boosting local tourism and economy while supporting local agriculture through sustainable practices.
Old Alker Distillery to Open in New Orleans This August
Get ready, New Orleans! The Old Alker Distillery is set to debut its new tasting room and manufacturing facility on Oak Street this August 2nd. Offering a range of pot-distilled spirits including whiskey, vodka, rum, gin, and specialty liqueurs, the distillery aims to provide a unique experience where visitors can see the distillation process and enjoy craft cocktails made with local ingredients. Highlights include the standard Old Alker whiskey, six-year barrel-aged whiskies, Trumpet brand vodka and gin, Bienville rums, and Lagniappe Liqueurs. The grand opening event at 8304 Oak St. will feature live music, raffles, and tastings, starting at 3 p.m. For more details, check out the Old Alker Distillery website.
Wight Whisky Launches Isle of Wight's First Whisky
Wight Whisky, the Isle of Wight’s first independent whisky distillery, has launched its debut product: the Signature Malt Blend. This unique blend combines the distillery's single malt with hand-selected whiskies from around the UK. The single malt barley is sourced from Isle of Wight Grain, a non-profit supporting local farmers. The whisky mash is brewed by Goddard's Brewery and distilled at Wight Whisky’s HQ on the Nunwell Estate. Using local spring water from Wight Crystal, Wight Whisky aims to bring a modern approach to English whisky. Plans include limited single malts and cask purchases. Co-founder Lucy Gregg highlights the island’s unique conditions that contribute to their whisky’s distinctive flavor. For more details, visit wightwhisky.com or follow @wightwhisky on X.
Double-Finished Delight: Limestone Branch Unveils 2024 Yellowstone Limited Edition Bourbon
Limestone Branch Distillery is thrilling bourbon aficionados with its latest Yellowstone Limited Edition release for 2024. This special edition bourbon is a blend of 7 and 17-year-old spirits, double-finished in brandy and cognac casks. The unique aging process imparts rich flavors of pear, sugar, and honey, creating a soft and round profile. Master Distiller Stephen Beam emphasizes the experimentation with these finishes, aiming to provide a complex and nuanced drinking experience. This limited release, available in September, is bottled at 50.5% ABV and priced at $100 for a 750 ml bottle. With only 10,000 cases available, it’s a must-have for collectors and enthusiasts.
Green River Distilling Co. Launches Green River 1885 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Following the overwhelming success of Green River Full Proof, Green River Distilling Co. announces the release of Green River 1885 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This new bourbon, designed to become a staple in cocktail bars, will be available in nine markets starting in August. Crafted from a mash bill of 76% local corn, 15% rye, and 9% malted barley, this 85-proof bourbon features notes of almond, orange peel, cinnamon, oak, clove, caramel, vanilla, baking spice, and Honeycrisp apple. Green River 1885 honors the distillery's rich history as one of Kentucky's oldest while offering modern, versatile flavor at an accessible price of $21.99 for a 1L bottle. Initially available in Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee, Michigan, Texas, Maryland, Delaware, and Washington, D.C., the brand aims for nationwide distribution. For more details, visit greenriverwhiskey.com.
Industry Leaders Push for Official Standards for American Single Malt Whiskey
The Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS) and the American Single Malt Whiskey Commission (ASMWC) have jointly urged the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) to finalize the standards for American single malt whiskey. This appeal follows a two-year wait since the TTB's initial notice of proposed rulemaking. The groups emphasize that establishing official standards will build trust in the category, ensure accurate label declarations, and provide consumers with clear information to make informed choices. As interest in American single malts grows, prominent distillers like Jack Daniel’s, Beam, Bulleit, and Westland are increasingly contributing to the category.
Two Souls Spirits Releases Limited Summer 2024 Whiskey Trio
Two Souls Spirits has launched a summer 2024 trio of single barrel whiskeys, showcasing a wheated bourbon and wheat whiskey from J. Carver Distillery, and a unique triple cask rye whiskey from Green River Distilling. This release features the 8-year Straight Bourbon "Give 'Em the Wheater" (127.68 proof), the 8-year Straight Wheat Whiskey "Packin' Wheat" (128 proof), and the 5-year Triple Cask Rye "Kentucky Colonel" (127.9 proof). All three are non-chill filtered, bottled at cask strength, and are available in limited quantities exclusively on their website starting July 30. This marks Two Souls' first "distillery spotlight" release, highlighting the exceptional quality of J. Carver's barrels, alongside a rare triple cask rye experience from Green River Distilling. For more details, visit Two Souls Spirits.
St. Louis Bourbon Festival Returns on October 18 with Over 600 Whiskeys
Mark your calendars, whiskey enthusiasts! The St. Louis Bourbon Festival is back on October 18, featuring an impressive array of over 600 whiskeys. In Benton Park, the festival spans four blocks along Cherokee St., 18th Street, and DeMenil Place. Attendees can enjoy a vibrant atmosphere with live music, street performers, food trucks, and two cigar patios. Hosted by the St. Louis Bourbon Society, this event supports local whiskey culture while also benefiting the non-profit Code 3 Response, which aids injured first responders. Ticket prices range from $85 to $180, with various options including exclusive tastings and VIP perks like the Sazerac VIP Lounge. For tickets and more details, visit the St. Louis Bourbon Festival website.
Woodford Reserve Introduces Limited-Edition Blended Malt to Distillery Series
Woodford Reserve Distillery has unveiled the latest addition to its Distillery Series: a limited-edition Blended Malt. This unique expression artfully combines two distinct malt whiskies. The first component is a 100% malt whiskey aged in used barrels and finished in a Ruby Port Barrel, while the second is a blend of five different styles of malt grains aged in new oak barrels. Master Distiller Elizabeth McCall highlighted the complexity and innovation in blending these barrels to create a new, flavorful product. Bottled at 90.4 proof, this release is available in 375mL bottles for $64.99 at Woodford Reserve Distillery, their online store (shipping to KY, D.C., NE, NH, ND), and select Kentucky retailers. There is a 2-bottle purchase limit per customer. The Blended Malt features tasting notes of orange honey color, raspberry preserves aroma with nutty malt, and a palate of candied nutty malt with hints of raw oak and citrus oils, finishing with lingering dark fruit, raspberry, raisin, fig, and a touch of allspice.
How Mead is Made from New York Honey
Elaine Ferrier, owner of Combgrown Mead in Auburn, New York, has turned her passion for mead into a thriving business. After initially experimenting with mead at home, Ferrier launched her business in Canada before relocating to Auburn to tap into the local agritourism economy. Her meads stand out for their lower alcohol content and flavorful profiles, offering a modern twist on traditional honey wine. Ferrier’s process involves dissolving honey in water, adding organic nutrients to boost fermentation, and incorporating fruits like mango and blackberry during and after fermentation for added flavor. After fermenting, the mead is filtered and carbonated before being canned. By using 100% New York-produced honey, Ferrier supports local beekeepers and contributes to the regional agritourism market. Her approach not only caters to modern tastes but also supports local agriculture and brings a unique beverage to the area.
Napa Valley Distillery Vows To Rebuild Following Fire Sparked By Highway 29 Car Crash [Hoodline]
An American Icon: The Return Of Clyde May’s Alabama-Style Whiskey [Forbes]
3 American Single Malt Brands To Watch [The Whiskey Wash]
Does Your Vintage Whiskey Glass Contain Dangerous Chemicals? [Gear Patrol]
Heaven Hill Grain to Glass Wheated Bourbon (2024) Review [VinePair]
Taste Test: This New Bourbon From Old Forester’s Former Master Taster Is Her Best Yet [Robb Report]
8 New American Whiskies Perfect To Sip On This Summer [GOLF]
Ross & Squibb Distillery Enhances Barrel Program For 2024 [Kilgore News Herald]
Award-winning Beaufort Distillery Named Best South Carolina Regional Distillery 2024 [Bluffton Today]
Iron Fish Distillery Scoops Up Triple Honors For Its Mad Angler Whiskeys [MLive]
Tasting: Michter’s Bomberger’s and Shenk’s Whiskeys (2024) [PASTE]
Will This Be the Next American Whiskey Brand to Command $100,000 at Auction? [Whisky Advocate]
And that’s a wrap for this edition of the Bourbon & Mead Digest! We hope you’ve enjoyed the latest updates and intriguing stories from the realms of bourbon and mead. Whether you’re planning to celebrate Mead Day, exploring new releases, or just enjoying a favorite pour, may your glass be full and your spirits high. Stay tuned for more news and insights, and as always, cheers to good times and great drinks!
