Spirit

Bourbon Barrel Aged Kentucky Wild Gin

Bourbon Barrel Aged Kentucky Wild Gin from New Riff Distilling represents a unique intersection of traditional gin-making techniques and the rich history of Kentucky bourbon. This spirit is crafted to highlight local botanicals gathered from the verdant landscapes of the Ohio Valley, with a focus on wild foraged ingredients that imbue it with a regional authenticity. The gin maintains the classic profiles of herbal and botanical flavors synonymous with gin while introducing the deep, complex notes derived from its time in bourbon barrels. This innovative aging process lends the gin a refined character, as the residual essence from the barrels enriches its flavor profile with subtle hints of vanilla, caramel, and oak. The bourbon barrel aging creates a harmonious blend of the crisp botanical qualities of gin with the rich, warm notes from the wood, resulting in a spirit that is both refreshing and inviting.

ABV

Introduction

Tasting Notes

On the nose, Bourbon Barrel Aged Kentucky Wild Gin presents an inviting bouquet of aromatic botanicals intertwined with notes of oak and bourbon-inflected sweetness. The prominent aromas of juniper are balanced with hints of dried herbs, citrus peel, and floral undertones, drawing you in for a more profound sensory experience. Upon tasting, there's an immediate rush of rich flavors featuring vanilla and caramel from the bourbon barrels, harmonized by the vibrant botanical notes that are the essence of the gin. A subtle spiciness emerges on the palate, suggesting a combination of floral and earthy elements that linger with a refreshing crispness. The finish is smooth and complex, characterized by a melding of sweet wood, zesty citrus, and a warm, almost creamy sensation, making it an adventurous sip that invites contemplation.

History

The Bourbon Barrel Aged Kentucky Wild Gin emerged as a creative expression from New Riff Distilling, a distillery known for its high-quality spirits. The distillery's ethos blends traditional craft with a contemporary twist, and the idea for this gin sprang from the desire to celebrate local botanicals while paying homage to the historic bourbon culture of Kentucky. Drawing inspiration from both the British gin tradition and the American bourbon heritage, the distillery set out to create a product that reflects their place in Kentucky's vibrant distilling landscape. New Riff began crafting its traditional Kentucky Wild Gin, which itself showcases a blend of wild-foraged and traditional botanicals. Following the success of this classic gin, they experimented by aging it in freshly emptied bourbon barrels. This innovative approach allows the spirit to take on added complexity, showcasing not just the botanicals but also the nuances imparted by the bourbon barrels. The Bourbon Barrel Aged version, aged for between five to seven months, became a testament to this creative exploration.

Fabrication Process

The fabrication process of Bourbon Barrel Aged Kentucky Wild Gin begins with the careful selection of local wild foraged botanicals, which includes classic gin ingredients like juniper berries, alongside unique aromatic elements that reflect the region. The distillation starts with a pot still, where the botanicals are steeped in a high-quality grain distillate to extract their full range of flavors. Once distilled, the gin undergoes aging in freshly emptied bourbon barrels. The barrels are sourced directly from the local bourbon-making community, ensuring freshness and maximum interaction between the spirit and the wood. During the aging process, which lasts between five and seven months, the gin absorbs the charred wood's flavorful compounds while also mellowing in character. This aging stage is crucial as it deepens the spirit's flavor profile, infusing it with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spices derived from the wood. After aging, the gin is carefully bottled without any additional flavoring or coloring, allowing the natural essence of the botanicals and the bourbon barrel influence to shine through. This commitment to craftsmanship illustrates New Riff's dedication to producing a spirit that is both innovative and rooted in tradition.