As July unfolds, the world of whisky turns its attention to the United States, celebrating the diverse styles of American whiskey. Independence Day on July 4th marks a significant moment in history—the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, which transformed the 13 colonies from British rule into the United States of America. This historical milestone is not only a celebration of freedom but also a pivotal moment in the development of American whiskey.
The evolution of American whiskey traces back to this period, shaped significantly by the influx of British, Irish, and European immigrants who brought their distilling expertise to the New World in the late 1700s and early 1800s. The unique ingredients available to them in America, combined with their traditional methods, laid the groundwork for the flavors and styles we enjoy today. Kentucky, in particular, has emerged as a central hub for the whiskey industry.
Whether you prefer classic bourbon or a unique spirit from a craft distiller, there’s a whiskey to suit every palate. To kick off your Independence Day celebrations, we present five exceptional whiskeys from Kentucky that are sure to impress.
Wild Turkey Rare Breed
Wild Turkey is known as one of the top-selling bourbons and its Rare Breed expression stands at the height of its core offerings. While the Straight Bourbon and the celebrated 101 Proof are commendable, Rare Breed elevates the experience to a new tier.
Bottled in small batches at cask strength, Rare Breed consists of bourbons aged between six and 12 years, showcasing a higher rye content in its mash bill.
The result is a robust whiskey that delivers rich flavors. Anticipate intense notes of dark chocolate, caramel, and clove, intertwined with warm spices like cinnamon and white pepper. Surprising hints of brown sugar, burnt orange peel, menthol, and peppermint round out the tasting experience.
This is the epitome of bourbon excellence.
Russell’s Reserve 10 Years Old
This whiskey has a compelling story, honoring a true American whiskey legacy— the Russell family. At the heart of the legacy is Jimmy Russell, a Bourbon Hall of Famer who has been distilling since 1954, and this year commemorates his 70-year milestone. His son, Eddie Russell, has contributed to the industry since the early 1980s and created Russell’s Reserve to celebrate Jimmy’s retirement in 1998, with Eddie’s son, Bruce, now prepared to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps.
Russell’s Reserve is crafted in small batches, with a maximum of 200 barrels per batch. This premium bourbon is aged for a full decade, a rarity among American whiskeys. The additional aging provides extraordinary depth of flavor.
Expect a delightful combination of spiced caramel and vanilla, complemented by notes of maple syrup, candied orange, butterscotch, and baking spice.
A truly remarkable whiskey.
Buy now at oldandrarewhisky.co.uk
Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style
Old Forester has cemented its status as a pioneer in the American whiskey sector. It was the first brand to bottle whiskey for sale as individual units, a practice established by founder George Garvin Brown to maintain quality and consistency. The whiskey was named in honor of Brown’s close friend, Dr. William Forester. Old Forester is one of the few companies that endured the Prohibition era (1920-1933), becoming the only bourbon brand available before, during, and after this challenging period.
The 1920 Prohibition Style bottling pays homage to Old Forester’s remarkable resilience. Many other brands succumbed to bankruptcy during this time.
Bottled at a notable 57.5% ABV, this whiskey presents a fantastic array of flavors. Expect a delightful harmony of chocolate-dipped cherries, caramel sauce, and maple syrup, with hints of gingerbread spice and dry oak in the background.
Truly sublime.
Michter’s US *1 Original Sour Mash
Michter’s boasts a long-standing heritage as one of America’s oldest whiskey producers. Its original distillery, the Shenk Distillery in Schaefferstown, Pennsylvania, is often credited as the first commercial whiskey producer in the nation, commencing operations in 1753—a fact celebrated by the “US *1” branding.
The Michter’s name appeared after Prohibition when owner Lou Forman created it from the names of his two sons, Michael and Peter. Despite fading from prominence in the 1980s, the brand was revived a decade ago by passionate whiskey enthusiasts who established a distillery on the renowned Whiskey Row in Louisville, Kentucky, leading to its resurgence.
Their award-winning offerings have captured the hearts of whiskey connoisseurs globally. The Original Sour Mash serves as the flagship of the range, featuring delightful notes of buttery toffee and almonds, complemented by a touch of black pepper.
This is truly exquisite.
Buy now at The Whisky Exchange
Old Rip Van Winkle 10 Years Old
The Van Winkle name has become synonymous with premium American whiskey, holding a revered status among bourbon enthusiasts and collectors alike. The mounting demand, coupled with limited production and extended aging periods, have driven prices of Van Winkle whiskeys to impressive heights. This particular offering is the youngest in the premium line-up.
This bourbon tantalizes the palate with a perfect mix of sweet and savory. The initial impression features fruit and nut milk chocolate intermingled with heather honey and vanilla fudge, evolving into an exquisite mix of drying woody spices, tannins, and subtle hints of orange oil and jasmine.
It’s easy to discern why this bourbon and its counterparts fetch such a premium, both in quality and price.
In conclusion, the richness of American whiskey, particularly from its heartland in Kentucky, is deeply rooted in history and tradition. Each of these selections offers unique flavors and stories that contribute to the vibrant tapestry of American whiskey. As you celebrate this Independence Day, consider indulging in one of these exceptional offerings to toast to the past and enjoy the present.
