Distillery 291 is in Colorado Springs, Colorado. They are making some interesting whiskeys. They distill the whiskey three times in pot stills and this particular rye whiskey was finished with toasted Aspen wood staves in what they are calling “the… …
Distillery 291 is in Colorado Springs, Colorado. They are making some interesting whiskeys. They distill the whiskey three times in pot stills and this particular rye whiskey was finished with toasted Aspen wood staves in what they are calling “the... Continue Reading →
My mother is a big fan of ginger. She eats candied ginger as a snack, loves spicy ginger ales (one of her favorites is spicy enough that it is marketed more as a mixer than as a drink in it’s own right), and back when she was young she was known for her love of ginger brandy liqueur. These days, ginger brandy has apparently grown hard to find in the area I grew up in. As such, she makes a point of trying to find a bottle when she comes to visit.
Well, last weekend was one of those visits. We were at Total Wine when she stopped to see what they had. They had exactly one, and the guy that was working stopped her from putting it in the cart with the unsolicited advice, “I can’t let you buy that. It tastes like hand sanitizer.” So he took the time to listen to what she was looking for and pointed her to Stone’s Original Ginger Wine.
Now I also like ginger, not quite to the same extent as my mother, but it is high on the list of flavors that I enjoy. So as we were in the ginger section of Total Wine’s liqueur section, I took the opportunity to grab a bottle of Domain de Canton Ginger Liqueur. I’d noticed it way back when I started writing about spirits and then pretty much forgot about it for a decade or more. But “when in Rome,” as they say.
So hang on, folks. We are stepping out of our normal comfort zone tonight. Let’s look at a couple of alcoholic ginger drinks.
Stone’s Original Ginger
We might as well try the one that was recommended first. From what I can tell online, Stone’s Original Ginger is a fortified wine made of grape wine, neutral spirits, and ginger. It claims to be a Product of England, but the company’s website is Australian. Not sure what is going on there, but I’m not thinking too hard about it. There are drinks to be consumed.
Purchase Info: $12.49 for a 750 mL bottle at Total Wine, Burnsville, MN
Price per Drink (50 ml): $0.83
Details: 13.5% ABV
Nose: Canned peaches, ginger, and a touch of citrus.
Mouth: Candied raisin, lemon, and after a moment in the mouth, you start to get a bit of heat and ginger flavor.
Finish: Gentle with notes of raisin and ginger. Not much heat.
Thoughts: Honestly, I thought that there would be more "punch" to this based on the ginger name. It's pleasant enough neat, but nothing to write home about. However, it really shines as a cocktail ingredient. I tried three from their website, and I’m a big fan of all three.
Stir ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Strain into a glass with fresh ice.
Stone and Gavel
3 oz Stone’s Original Ginger
1 oz Funky white rum
Pour over crushed ice, stir, and serve.
The Dragon Slayer
1 oz Stone’s Original Ginger
1 oz Gin
0.5 oz honey syrup
2 oz hard cider
These are all delicious. The Southern Star is a lot like a Manhattan, but there are more layers of flavor. The Stone and Gavel is what I’m drinking right now. It is my favorite of the three and reminds me of a Dark and Stormy with less ginger “punch” but more nuanced flavors. The Dragon Slayer was interesting. I used a local dry hard cider, and it really brought the apple notes to the forefront.
Domaine de Canton
Now onto one that landed in my cart from pure curiosity. Domaine de Canton is a ginger liqueur imported from France by Heaven Hill in Bardstown, KY. Here is what they have to say about it:
Domaine de Canton ginger liqueur was inspired by the French tradition in which sweet and fresh elixirs were fortified by fine eaux de vie and cognac. Spicy and aromatic elixirs became popular with the French during the time of colonial Indochine. Domaine de Canton is inspired by the subtle spiciness of the baby ginger grown locally in modern day Indochine. The result is a recipe which evokes an era of tropical romance and continental sophistication that is both elegant and timeless.
Purchase Info: $21.99 for a 750 mL bottle at Total Wine, Burnsville, MN
Price per Drink (50 mL): $1.47
Details: 28% ABV
Nose: Ginger and lemon
Mouth: Thick and syrupy with honey, lemon, and ginger.
Finish: Spicy ginger for a long time.
Thoughts: This tastes exactly like I would have guessed a ginger liqueur would taste. It is very sweet and has powerful ginger notes that are nicely supported by a lemon note. I like it, and I’ll be keeping this on hand. It works very nicely in cocktails, especially ones where you pair it with citrus. I particularly liked the Gold Rush and the Ginger Collins from the product's neck tag. See below:
Shake all but soda and strain into a glass over ice. Top with sparkling water. Garnish with a lemon wedge.
Both of these are great as described above, but on The Gold Rush, I’d personally use a higher percentage of the Domaine de Canton to get even more ginger flavor. The Ginger Collins is a spicier and sweeter version of my favorite deck drink, the Gin Rickey. It makes a nice change of pace if I have a hankering for switching things up but still want a floral and refreshing long drink.
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Jack Daniel’s has introduced Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Barrel Proof Rye Whiskey as the newest member of its Single Barrel Collection. Available now across the U.S., Jack Daniel’s Barrel Proof Rye is bottled straight from the barrel and offered at proof points ranging between 125 and 145. Jack Daniel’s Rye Whiskey has a grain bill …
Jack Daniel’s has introduced Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Barrel Proof Rye Whiskey as the newest member of its Single Barrel Collection. Available now across the U.S., Jack Daniel’s Barrel Proof Rye is bottled straight from the barrel and offered at proof points ranging between 125 and 145.
Jack Daniel’s Rye Whiskey has a grain bill of 70% rye, 18% corn, and 12% malted barley and is charcoal mellowed before aging in new, handmade American white oak barrels. Only specially selected barrels aged at the highest reaches of barrelhouses and producing whiskey with deeper colors and flavors are selected for the Single Barrel Collection.
“The combination of our unique rye grain bill and barrel house locations make for a special rye whiskey that perfectly balances bold and smooth,” said Chris Fletcher, Jack Daniel’s Master Distiller. “We’ve offered our rye whiskey at barrel strength through special limited releases in the past, and the responses from the whiskey community have been overwhelmingly positive. Now we’re excited to have our Barrel Proof Rye as a permanent part of our whiskey offerings to give even more of our friends a chance to try this special expression.”
Jack Daniel’s Barrel Proof Rye has a complex aroma of rich caramel and toasted subtle fruit. Although every barrel is slightly different, each offers a great intensity and complexity with a peppery rye finish.
Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel Barrel Proof Rye is available in 750mL bottles across the U.S. for a suggested retail price of $59.99.
Debuting on Amazon Prime is “SPIRIT: Becoming the World’s Best Bartender” – the documentary about Diageo’s World Class competition from 2022. Diageo’s prestigious World Class Global Bartender of the Year cocktail competition is the setting for the documentary as it reveals the behind-the-scenes back-stories and preparations of three of the world’s best bartenders as they […]
Debuting on Amazon Prime is “SPIRIT: Becoming the World’s Best Bartender” – the documentary about Diageo’s World Class competition from 2022.
Diageo’s prestigious World Class Global Bartender of the Year cocktail competition is the setting for the documentary as it reveals the behind-the-scenes back-stories and preparations of three of the world’s best bartenders as they prepare to create the most important cocktails of their career.
Specifically, the documentary follows Sahil Essani of India, Liisa Lindroos from Finland,and Japan’s Yui Ogata, as they work towards the coveted title of World Class Global Bartender of the Year. The filmmakers followed all three competitors as they prepared their recipes ahead of the global finals, which were hosted in Sydney, Australia in September 2022 and ultimately won by Norwegian-based Slovakian Adrian Michalcik.
Diageo has confirmed it will host the 2023 edition of their competition on September 23-27, 2023 in São Paulo, Brazil.
James B. Beam Distilling Co.’s new American Single Malt Whiskey Clermont Steep, the first ever in the category for the company developed by Freddie Noe, 8th Generation Master Distiller of the Fred B. Noe Distillery. It will be released in June, here are the tasting notes and where to buy.
The James B. Beam Distilling Co. tells BoubonBlo.com that they are bringing their 227 years of whiskey-making expertise and excellence to the American Single Malt Whiskey category with the launch of Clermont Steep. Developed by Freddie Noe, 8th Generation Master Distiller of the Fred B. Noe Distillery, this venture into an emerging category explores the full potential of a single grain – American Malted Barley.
It will be released in June 2023 and will be at 47% ABV, selling for SRP: $59.99
Beam says that with ” little to no definition in the American Single Malt category, Noe developed his own defining guidelines, making intentional production choices to celebrate the flavor of this single grain at every step of development.”
Clermont Steep is a five-year-old liquid distilled and aged in Clermont, Kentucky, and matured in bespoke barrels to deliver warm toffee sweetness on the palate without overshadowing the unique, bready taste of American barley.
“As a new venture, crafting Clermont Steep has been one of the toughest challenges I have ever faced in the distillery, and I am incredibly proud of where we’ve landed,” said Noe. “This American Single Malt Whiskey is smooth, sweet and incredibly balanced, and it deserves a spot on any whiskey lover’s bar cart, right alongside their bourbons and ryes.”
Clermont Steep is a whiskey steeped in influence from both process and place. Just as single malt couldn’t exist without steeping the grain, this whiskey couldn’t exist without Clermont, Kentucky – the soul place of the James B. Beam Distilling Co. and the heartland of American Whiskey distilling culture. Noe and his team hand-selected the American malted barley for the mash and used Beam family jug yeast in the natural fermentation process. It’s the same yeast that is used in all Beam products, adding a sense of familiarity to every sip. The single malt was then distilled on a column still and aged for five years in barrels that were toasted, then quickly charred to a char level 1.
The launch of Clermont Steep marks a significant milestone in the American Whiskey landscape as James B. Beam Distilling Co., the world’s largest producer of Bourbon, takes a stake in a rapidly growing segment that has yet to be fully explored.
“I’m always looking toward the future of American Whiskey, and the boundless runway in this category intrigued me,” said Noe. “We don’t just want to participate in American Single Malt Whiskey; we want to help define it for the future of the category.”
In the world of spirits and alcohol production, the quality of the equipment and machinery used can make all the difference. The top-quality spirits in https://www.lochlomondwhiskies.com/ or any other distilleries are the result of carefully crafted processes that start with top-quality equipment. The distillery industry has seen a consistent increase in demand for high-quality spirits with …
In the world of spirits and alcohol production, the quality of the equipment and machinery used can make all the difference. The top-quality spirits in https://www.lochlomondwhiskies.com/ or any other distilleries are the result of carefully crafted processes that start with top-quality equipment. The distillery industry has seen a consistent increase in demand for high-quality spirits with unique flavors, which has significantly intensified competition. Therefore, it’s more important than ever to have the right tools and equipment to stay ahead in the game.
Increased Efficiency and Reduced Costs
This is particularly important in the distillation process, where proper equipment can significantly impact productivity and profitability. With the right equipment, distillers can produce higher yields, reduce production time, and minimize the need for maintenance and repairs. Additionally, high-quality distillery equipment can help to prevent waste and improve the quality and consistency of the final product. By investing in top-of-the-line equipment, distillers can ultimately save on costs, improve their bottom line, and remain competitive in an increasingly crowded market.
Enhanced Safety and Sanitation
The distillery industry is heavily regulated and requires adherence to strict safety guidelines and sanitation protocols. Poorly constructed or maintained equipment can put workers and customers at risk and can lead to health code violations and loss of business. High-quality distillery equipment is designed and built with safety and sanitation in mind, incorporating features such as durable materials, efficient cleaning mechanisms, and accurate temperature and pressure controls. Investing in such equipment will not only help ensure compliance with regulations but will also promote a safe and healthy workplace for employees and customers alike.
Enhanced Quality of Products
With advanced technologies and modern designs, high-quality equipment can help you achieve greater consistency and precision in your production process. This means that your final products will have a more refined taste and aroma, which can be a huge selling point for your brand. Moreover, high-quality equipment is often built to last, meaning that it can withstand the wear and tear of daily use without compromising on the quality of your products.
Improved Reliability and Durability
One of the most important factors to consider when investing in distillery equipment is reliability and durability. High-quality distillery equipment is designed to withstand the rigors of continuous use, reducing the likelihood of breakdowns and costly repairs. In addition, well-made equipment offers consistent and accurate results, which is especially important in producing high-quality spirits. Investing in reliable and durable equipment also means that you won’t have to replace it as frequently, saving you money in the long run.
Improved Reputation and Customer Retention
High-quality equipment produces high-quality products, which can help set your distillery apart from competitors. Customers are increasingly interested in the quality and authenticity of the products they consume, and investing in reliable equipment can help meet these expectations. Repeat customers are essential to any business, and having a reputation for quality can help ensure customer loyalty. In addition, high-quality equipment can help ensure consistency in product production, which is essential to building a strong brand reputation.
In Conclusion
Investing in high-quality distillery equipment can provide numerous benefits for distilleries, including producing higher-quality spirits, reducing production time and costs, and ultimately increasing profitability. While the initial cost may be higher, the long-term benefits and return on investment make it a worthwhile decision. By prioritizing the quality of their equipment, distilleries can position themselves for success in the highly competitive spirits industry.
Whisky, an age-old spirit known for its rich flavors and captivating history, holds a special place in the hearts of many connoisseurs. While most of us are familiar with the smooth taste and distinct aroma of this iconic beverage, several lesser-known things about it are bound to surprise and fascinate even the most discerning whisky …
Whisky, an age-old spirit known for its rich flavors and captivating history, holds a special place in the hearts of many connoisseurs. While most of us are familiar with the smooth taste and distinct aroma of this iconic beverage, several lesser-known things about it are bound to surprise and fascinate even the most discerning whisky enthusiasts. Prepare to be astounded as we reveal four extraordinary facts about the famous drink that you probably didn’t know!
#1: The Word “Whisky” Means “Water of Life”
Did you know that the term “whisky” has its origins in the Gaelic phrase “usquebaugh,” itself from the Scottish Gaelic spelling “uisge beatha” or the Irish Gaelic variant of spelling “uisce beatha”? The Irish monks, renowned for their distillation skills, coined their phrase to describe the remarkable elixir they had once created. The beverage you may probably enjoy at a party or while seeking the Best Casino Bonuses means “water of life,” according to its original phrases.
Over time, the terms mentioned above transformed into the simple word “whisky.” However, this transformation symbolizes the drink’s profound cultural significance and also highlights its special place in history.
#2: The Angel’s Share: A Mysterious Loss
Have you ever wondered why whisky barrels lose a certain amount of their contents during the aging process? Known as the “angel’s share,” this phenomenon occurs as the beverage evaporates through the wood of the casks.
Surprisingly, evaporation can reach approximately 2% per year, resulting in the loss of a precious drink. While it may be disheartening to lose a portion of this cherished spirit, the angel’s share adds a touch of mystery and romance to the art of whisky making. Also, this process is closely tied to customs in some places.
#3: The Power of Wood: Influence on Flavor
One of the fascinating aspects of whisky production lies in the influence of wood on its flavour profile. The drink ages in barrels made from different types of oak casks, such as Japanese, European, or American. During the process, it can absorb unique flavors and aromas from the material’s compounds.
This interaction between the spirit and the wood imparts distinctive characteristics, ranging from vanilla and caramel to spices, fresh or dried fruits, and even Christmas cake. Such complexity is a testament to the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into creating each bottle of whisky.
#4: The Color Conundrum: Natural or Enhanced?
Have you ever wondered about the mesmerizing hues of whisky, ranging from pale gold to deep amber? Contrary to popular belief, the color of the beverage is primarily derived from the wood it matures in rather than any artificial additives.
The whisky’s natural color after distillation is clear. So during aging, the spirit absorbs pigments from the oak, resulting in a beautiful spectrum of hues. Therefore, next time you admire the unique shade of your whisky, remember that it is a testament to both time and nature’s artistry.
A Few Words to Conclude
Whisky is more than just a drink; it is an embodiment of history and craftsmanship. With its diverse flavors and intriguing production process, this beverage never fails to captivate enthusiasts. By delving into these four astounding facts about it, we have uncovered some hidden tales and mysteries that make this spirit all the more intriguing.
On this Whiskey Quickie by Bourbon Pursuit, we review Chicken Cock Double Oak Whiskey. This 8 year old whiskey is 92 proof and $100 MSRP. Let us know what you think. Cheers!
DISCLAIMER: The whiskey in this review was provided to us at no cost courtesy of the spirit producer. We were not compensated by the spirit producer for this review. This is our honest opinion based on what we tasted. Please drink responsibly.
Company:The Glasgow Distillery CoJob:FounderWebsite:glasgowdistillery.comSocials:@GlasgowDCHow
long have you been working in the whisky industry?In 2012
I founded The Glasgow Distillery alongside my long-term business partner, Liam
Hughes. Before embar…
Company:The Glasgow Distillery CoJob:FounderWebsite:glasgowdistillery.comSocials:@GlasgowDCHow
long have you been working in the whisky industry?In 2012
I founded The Glasgow Distillery alongside my long-term business partner, Liam
Hughes. Before embarking on our distillery journey, we had both been in the
drinks industry for over 20 years working across business development; brand
strategy;
The Bluegrass State is known for its rolling hills of silver, pretty forests of hardwood trees, and historical sites from times before. One of the best ways to take in this scenery is with an excursion aboard a dinner train in Kentucky, and My Old Kentucky Dinner Train in Bardstown is the perfect outing—especially if …
The Bluegrass State is known for its rolling hills of silver, pretty forests of hardwood trees, and historical sites from times before. One of the best ways to take in this scenery is with an excursion aboard a dinner train in Kentucky, and My Old Kentucky Dinner Train in Bardstown is the perfect outing—especially if you’re in the area for a romantic getaway. From lunchtime expeditions and bourbon-themed dinners to special murder mystery tours and holiday specials, these are some of the best offerings for a memorable meal and tour of the area.
My Old Kentucky Dinner Train had its first run in 1988 along the 20-mile stretch through the countryside. The Budd Company constructed the two steel-skirted train cars in the late 1940s and the R. J. Corman Railroad Company refurbished them into the beautiful dining cars you’ll experience today, pulled by F-unit locomotives. All of this comes together for a romantic ride in the countryside!
Before you book your dinner train in Kentucky reservation, you’ll want to secure your lodging, and our historic Bardstown Bed and Breakfast happens to be located within walking distance of the My Old Kentucky Dinner Train depot. We offer elegant guest suites, complimentary gourmet breakfast each morning, and a host of amenities and perks that you won’t find at other lodging options in Bardstown. Head over to our availability calendar and book your room today!
The story began in 1860 when The Bardstown and Louisville Railroad constructed the 29-mile line. The Bardstown station, also completed in 1860, was the freight and passenger depot. As Kentucky’s last remaining “dry-laid” limestone depot, you’ll find this location listed on the “National Register of Historic Places.”
Extensively refurbished 1940s, shiny steel-skirted cars are the stars of the railroad. Built after World War II by the Budd Company, these classic cars now include a state-of-the-art kitchen car and 54 seat day coach. During the two and half hour journeys through the scenic countryside, guests can enjoy a gourmet meal, often paired with wine or Bardstown bourbon.
Lunch Train Excursion: If you prefer a midday adventure, this two-hour train ride through the Kentucky countryside includes a gourmet three-course lunch with seafood, meat, and vegetarian options.
Dinner Excursion: We always prefer an evening dinner train in Kentucky; it’s a much more romantic outing, especially if you catch the sunset. You’ll pass by standout sites like the Jim Beam distillery, Jesse James’ safe house, and the Jackson Hollow Trestle in the Bernheim Forest on the 32-mile trip. All while enjoying a four-course meal elegantly prepared by talented onboard chefs.
Bourbon Excursion: For those who want to indulge in Bardstown’s signature beverage, the Bourbon Excursion offers a similar experience with a gourmet four-course meal but with the addition of an exclusive bourbon tasting led by a master distiller.
Murder Mystery Train: Presented by Murder and Merriment, guests will solve a classic “whodunit” murder mystery performed during their dinner train in Kentucky ride. The exuberant actors will have you guessing up until the last moment, and each month has a different puzzle to unravel.
Seasonal Offerings: Depending on the time of year you visit Bardstown, My Old Kentucky Dinner Train offers seasonal events. The most popular is the Polar Express during Christmas—the two-hour ride that will get you fully into the holiday spirit.
It’s a good idea to get your dinner train in Kentucky tickets beforehand. Our welcoming and kind staff at our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast are always more than happy to help make reservations for you and offer personalized recommendations during your stay.
After enjoying a meal and the stunning scenery on your dinner train in Kentucky, return to our Bardstown Bed and Breakfast. Your quiet, relaxing guest room is the perfect retreat with comfortable seating, cozy beds, fireplaces, and top-notch amenities. If you’re in the mood for a nightcap, our lobby bar is the perfect place to finish the evening with a cocktail. Take your bourbon beverage of choice into our shared living room and relish our period furnishings.
The following day we’ll treat you to an excellent and home-cooked breakfast. Our seasonal menu offers guests hearty Southern favorites and our own culinary creations. If you want more relaxation, book a massage at our on-site spa. Our incredible therapists are masterful! For those looking for more adventure, you can’t beat heading out to the nearby Bardstown distilleries for tastings and tours—you’ll learn a lot about our charming small town’s history while sipping some of the best bourbons in Kentucky.
Lastly, we must mention our attentive, discreet, and welcoming service! You’ll know the true definition of Southern hospitality from the minute you arrive until the minute you depart. We often have the pleasure of hosting repeat guests year after year for birthdays, anniversaries, and memorable getaways. Perhaps enjoying a dinner train in Kentucky will become one of your annual traditions. Join us in Bardstown and book your room today!
