Bourbon is a staple in the world of whiskey, with a rich history and a distinct taste that sets it apart from other spirits. Breckenridge Bourbon is one such whiskey that has made its mark in the industry, offering a unique blend of flavors and a story that is just as captivating as its taste.Â
In this blog post, we’ll be taking a closer look at Breckenridge Bourbon, exploring its history, distillation process, and taste profile. We’ll also be sharing some popular cocktails that you can make with Breckenridge Bourbon and sharing our thoughts on why it’s worth trying.Â
Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon drinker or a newcomer to the world of whiskey, this blog post will provide you with everything you need to know about Breckenridge Bourbon. So, sit back, grab a glass, and let’s dive into the world of this exquisite whiskey.Â
History of Breckenridge BourbonÂ
Breckenridge Distillery was founded in the mountain town of Breckenridge, Colorado, in 2008. The distillery was founded with the goal of creating bourbon that would capture the essence of the mountain town and its surroundings. Breckenridge Bourbon was the first whiskey produced by the distillery and has since become a staple in their portfolio.Â
The origin of the bourbon can be traced back to the days of the Wild West when miners would distill whiskey in their cabins to pass the time and warm themselves during the long, harsh winters. Breckenridge Bourbon pays homage to these pioneers, using traditional distillation techniques and the pure water from the nearby mountains to create a whiskey that is truly unique.Â
The combination of the rich history and the unique location of the distillery make Breckenridge Bourbon a whiskey that stands out from the rest, with a story and a taste that are truly one-of-a-kind.Â
Distillation ProcessÂ
Breckenridge Bourbon is made from a carefully crafted blend of corn, rye, and barley. These ingredients are carefully sourced to ensure the highest quality and the best flavor profile for the final product.Â
The distillation process for Breckenridge Bourbon involves a combination of traditional techniques and modern technology. The whiskey is distilled in small batches, using a custom-made still to ensure that each batch is as pure and flavorful as the last. The distillation process is carefully monitored and controlled to ensure that the whiskey has the right balance of flavors and alcohol content.Â
Once the distillation process is complete, the whiskey is aged in new, charred oak barrels. The barrels are stored in the mountains, where the fluctuations in temperature and humidity contribute to the aging process and the final flavor profile of the whiskey. The aging process typically takes 2-3 years, with the whiskey being tasted regularly to ensure that it is ready for bottling at the right time.Â
Taste Profile Â
Breckenridge Bourbon has a unique taste profile that sets it apart from other bourbons on the market. The whiskey has a rich, smooth flavor with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. There are also hints of fruit, such as cherries and apricots, and a slight spicy finish that lingers on the palate.Â
Compared to other bourbons, Breckenridge Bourbon has a slightly sweeter taste profile with a smooth, creamy mouthfeel. The flavors are well-balanced, making it a versatile whiskey that can be enjoyed on its own or in cocktails.Â
When it comes to serving suggestions, Breckenridge Bourbon is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks. The flavors are rich and complex and don’t need to be masked by other ingredients. However, if you’re looking to mix things up, Breckenridge Bourbon is also an excellent choice for cocktails, such as a classic Manhattan or an Old Fashioned.Â
Breckenridge Blends – Elevating the Art of Whiskey BlendingÂ
Breckenridge Distillery is committed to producing high-quality whiskeys through a blend of traditional and innovative techniques. Blending is an art form that is central to the distillery’s process, with the goal of achieving their signature house style – a spicy, full-bodied bourbon.Â
Whiskey flavor profiles can vary greatly due to factors such as grain variety, oak source, and aging warehouse climate. This natural variation poses a challenge for distillers who aim to create a consistent product. Breckenridge distillers source whiskey from producers across the US and also produce their own whiskey on-site using copper pot stills and a Vendome column still. Finishing casks, including sherry and dessert wine, add even more options to the blender’s palette.Â
Breckenridge’s blenders test and taste hundreds of potential blends before selecting a final combination for each release. The blender aims to achieve the house style by choosing a mix of barrels with oak, spicy, neutral, and fruity flavors. The head distiller, Hans, is constantly experimenting with new techniques and ingredients, from barrel-aged gin to rum cask-finished whiskey.Â
The Breckenridge Blend of Straight Bourbon Whiskeys, the flagship product, combines whiskey from Colorado, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Indiana, while special release Breckenridge bourbon are finished in unique casks or bottled at higher strengths. The distillery’s commitment to blending and experimentation has resulted in a range of high-quality, delicious whiskeys that are attracting a growing following of fans.Â
Final ThoughtsÂ
Breckenridge Distillery is a standout in the world of whiskey thanks to its expert blending practices. By sourcing whiskey from top producers across the country and producing their own on-site, they have a wealth of options to choose from when creating each release. The distillery’s commitment to innovation and trying new things, paired with a desire to maintain their recognizable house style, sets them apart. So, why not pour yourself a glass and take a closer look at the art of blending with Breckenridge Bourbon.Â