The perfect blend

Collin Richardson - VP Head Distiller

why in house distilling combined with sourcing is the right move

Starting a distillery from the ground up requires not only patience but an unwavering

focus. From the challenges of aging your product to meeting TTB (Alcohol and Tobacco Tax

and Trade Bureau) regulations, to navigating the complexities of marketing in an oversaturated

market, the road is anything but easy. However, being a hybrid distillery presents a unique

opportunity to express our collective passion through the artistry of crafting and blending. It also

allows us to gain a distinctive perspective on the core of the whiskey industry.

While waiting for their own products to mature, many distilleries turn to sourcing from

established providers such as MGPI and the Bardstown Bourbon Company. While some may

look down upon sourcing spirits, it presents an invaluable opportunity to experiment, blend, and

create something truly remarkable. When receiving shipments of 50 or more barrels of Low Rye

Bourbon from a supplier, it becomes clear that each batch tends to exhibit a distinct flavor profile

consistent with its recipe. Part of the fun is identifying which barrels feature undesirable notes

and which hold unique, desirable flavors. By organizing our spirits based on their tasting notes,

we create a variety of samples, experimenting with different blend ratios to achieve the best

possible product. Our goal is to craft a spirit that offers an approachable front-end taste, a

welcoming body, and a pleasant finish that lingers until the next sip. Much like preparing a five-

star meal with high-quality ingredients, it’s not just about having the right elements; it’s about

knowing how to bring them together.

The distilling process itself demands precision, patience, and determination. Creating a unique

recipe, selecting the ideal grains, and guiding the wort through the distillation cycles is an

incredibly rewarding experience. However, it’s more than just cooking and distilling—it requires

meticulous attention to detail, especially during the fermentation cycles and the final cuts. The

“hearts” cut, in particular, serves as the distiller’s signature, a mark of their craftsmanship and

perseverance before the product is finalized.

Whether blending or creating, each process offers its own distinct challenges and rewards.

Ultimately, what matters most is the time, care, and dedication invested in the journey that

results in a product that will ultimately find its way into the hands of the consumer.