Angel's Envy rye whiskey is made by Louisville Distilling Company, which is a subsidiary of Bacardi Limited. Louisville Distilling Company is known for their handcrafted, small batch approach to whiskey production. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring the world of spirits and have come across Angel's Envy on several occasions.
The process of making Angel's Envy rye whiskey is meticulous and artfully executed. It begins with the selection of the finest quality rye grains, which are sourced from trusted farmers who adhere to sustainable and ethical farming practices. The choice of high-quality ingredients is crucial in creating a whiskey of exceptional character and flavor.
Once the rye grains are harvested, they undergo a careful milling process to break them down into a coarse powder. This allows for the release of enzymes that will convert the starches in the grain into fermentable sugars. The milled rye is then mixed with water to create a mash, which is heated to activate the enzymes and initiate the conversion process.
After the mash has cooled, yeast is added to begin the fermentation process. This is where the magic happens – the yeast consumes the sugars in the mash and converts them into alcohol, creating a liquid known as “distiller's beer.” The fermentation process typically takes several days, during which the yeast imparts its unique flavors and aromas to the liquid.
Once fermentation is complete, the distiller's beer is ready for distillation. Angel's Envy rye whiskey goes through a double distillation process, which helps to refine and concentrate the flavors. The liquid is first distilled in a traditional copper pot still, which allows for the separation of alcohol from impurities. It is then distilled a second time in a column still, which further purifies the spirit and enhances its smoothness.
After distillation, the whiskey is transferred to new, charred oak barrels for maturation. This is where Angel's Envy truly shines. The barrels are carefully selected to impart the perfect balance of flavors to the whiskey. The spirit is aged for a minimum of two years, allowing it to develop its unique character and depth. Throughout the aging process, the whiskey interacts with the wood, drawing out flavors of caramel, vanilla, and spice.
The final step in creating Angel's Envy rye whiskey is the finishing process. This is where the whiskey is transferred to port wine barrels for an additional period of aging. The port wine barrels infuse the spirit with rich, fruity notes and a velvety smoothness that sets Angel's Envy apart from other rye whiskeys.
Angel's Envy rye whiskey is meticulously crafted by Louisville Distilling Company, a subsidiary of Bacardi Limited. The attention to detail, from the selection of high-quality ingredients to the double distillation and unique finishing process, results in a whiskey that is truly exceptional. Each sip of Angel's Envy is a testament to the artistry and passion that goes into its creation.