EP 14: The States of Whiskey, Vol 2

Join MikeD and TI as we take another trip around the US. This time we're heading from Florida up 95 to New York then taking the long way over to California.

 

Stolen (42.99) 
History: Started St.Petersburg, FL. Stolen Whiskey begins with a group of whiskey enthusiasts who are passionate about discovering new and innovative ways to create exceptional spirits. Inspired by the rich heritage of whiskey production, they set out on a mission to reimagine the aging process and create a whiskey that would stand out in a crowded market. One of the key aspects that sets Stolen Whiskey apart is its unconventional approach to barrel aging. Instead of relying solely on traditional oak barrels, the brand embraces a technique known as "barrel finishing." This involves taking mature whiskey and aging it for an additional period in barrels that previously held other spirits, such as rum, tequila, or wine. This unique process imparts distinct flavors and nuances to the whiskey, resulting in a range of complex and intriguing expressions. Stolen also produces a Rye and a line of Rums

About Stolen Whisky:
Aged eleven years in American oak barrels, it’s a highly-awarded, single-grain American whiskey. It is finished in a secondary barrel and steeped with toasted oak staves. As a result Stolen 11yr old has a rich and bold flavor profile, yet it is exceptionally smooth and light on the palate.

Tasting Profile: corn, sweet, hints of mint, vanilla, oak char, marzipan, butter, dark fruits, cherries and chocolate

 

Hudson Whiskey - Bright lights, big bourbon (46.99)
History: The Idea was to make whiskey in New York for the first time since prohibition. In 2001, Ralph Erenzo had a wild idea to move upstate and start a distillery (Tuthilltown Spirits), way back before there was a craft distiller in every neighborhood across the US. Ralph didn’t play by the rules. He fought for his whiskey, and challenged the government to change the laws for craft distillers everywhere This made Hudson Whiskey one of the pioneers of the modern craft distilling movement in the United States. Now craft distilling is everywhere — with over 1,800 distilleries in the US, and over 180 in New York alone. And like New York itself, their whiskey is in a class of its own. Thanks to high-quality grain from local family farmers and straight up, undiluted mashbills. In 2003, Hudson Whiskey released its first product—the Hudson Baby Bourbon. This release marked a significant milestone as it was the first bourbon whiskey to be legally produced in New York since Prohibition. In 2010, Tuthilltown Spirits caught the attention of spirits industry giant William Grant & Sons, known for its portfolio of renowned Scotch whiskies and other spirits. Impressed by the craftsmanship and authenticity of Hudson Whiskey, William Grant & Sons acquired the brand, enabling it to reach a wider audience and benefit from the company's global distribution network.

Tasting Profile: rich vanilla, oak, stone fruit, corn bread, caramel, cashew

 

Ammunition Bourbon (39.99)
History: The history of Ammunition Bourbon can be traced back to its origins in the United States during the 19th century. The story begins with a group of whiskey enthusiasts who were inspired by the rich distilling traditions of Kentucky. With a passion for crafting exceptional bourbon, they set out to create a brand that would embody the spirit of American heritage and craftsmanship. Years of meticulous experimentation, blending, and refinement led to the development of the signature Ammunition Bourbon recipe. This also led to variations that include limited-edition releases, single barrel selections, and unique finishes, providing whiskey lovers with a diverse range of options to explore. This experimentation led to their Cabernet casks line. Currently under the ownership of  winemaker Daylight Wine & Spirits to produce their Cabernet casks selection. Distilled in small batches in Sonoma, CA. They also make a Straight Rye Whiskey  finished in Pinot Noir barrels.

Tasting Profile: wine, fruits, Macadamia nut cookies, stone fruit, oak, citrus, lemongrass, tobacco, light cherries