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A Chicago Distiller’s Perspective on Bourbon Outside of Kentucky – WTTW

A Chicago Distiller’s Perspective on Bourbon Outside of Kentucky – WTTW

The Rise of Bourbon

Bourbon has been a staple of American culture for centuries and has only grown more popular in recent years. This aged whiskey is known for its rich caramel color and sweet, woody flavor. While most people associate bourbon with the state of Kentucky, the truth is that it can be found all over the world.

The Chicago Distilling Company

One such location is the Chicago Distilling Company, a small distillery located in the heart of the Windy City. This establishment has been producing high-quality bourbon for years and has quickly gained a reputation as one of the best bourbon distillers outside of Kentucky.

The History of the Company

The Chicago Distilling Company was founded in 2010 by a team of dedicated whiskey enthusiasts. They wanted to create a distillery that would produce high-quality, artisanal spirits that could rival the best in the world. The team was made up of five individuals: Jay DiPrizio, Will Duncan, Mark Lucas, Noël Garcia, and Victor Yampolsky.

The Distilling Process

The distilling process at the Chicago Distilling Company is similar to that used in Kentucky, but there are a few key differences that give their bourbon its unique flavor profile. The company uses a blend of traditional and modern techniques to create their spirits, including using locally-sourced grains and aging their bourbon in new American oak barrels.

The Taste of Chicago Bourbon

The Chicago Distilling Company’s bourbon has a distinct flavor profile that sets it apart from other bourbons on the market. It has a caramel color and a sweet, woody aroma. On the palate, the bourbon is smooth, with notes of vanilla, honey, and oak. The finish is long and smoky, making it the perfect sipping bourbon.

The Future of Chicago Bourbon

The Chicago Distilling Company has been making waves in the bourbon world for years, and they show no signs of slowing down. They recently opened a new, larger distillery in Logan Square, which has allowed them to increase their production and expand their line of spirits. They also offer a range of tours and tastings, giving visitors the chance to see the distillation process up close and sample some of their award-winning spirits.

Final Thoughts

While Kentucky may still be the heart of the bourbon industry, the Chicago Distilling Company has shown that great bourbon can be made anywhere. Their dedication to quality and their commitment to sourcing local ingredients has made them a leader in the industry. Whether you’re a die-hard bourbon fan or just looking to try something new, a visit to the Chicago Distilling Company is a must.

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Written by Daniel Davis

Daniel Davis has been writing about spirits for over 10 years. He is a frequent speaker at whiskey festivals and events around the country and has been a judge at several international spirit competitions. He is passionate about educating people about the history and culture of whiskey and bourbon and loves to share his knowledge with others.

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