According to TTB records, the McFarlane Reserve bourbon is being produced by Lodestone Beverages, a white label whiskey producer based in Kentucky. Lodestone Beverages specializes in bottling whiskey from undisclosed sources for third party companies. It's worth noting that Lodestone Beverages also produces First Call bourbon for IJW, another brand that sources their whiskey from undisclosed origins.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I find it fascinating to delve into the world of white label whiskey production. White label producers are essentially like ghostwriters in the whiskey industry, creating products for brands that may not have their own distillery or aging facilities. These producers often have access to a wide range of sourced whiskies, allowing them to create unique blends or expressions for different brands.
In the case of McFarlane Reserve, it is unclear where exactly the whiskey is sourced from. This is not uncommon in the whiskey industry, as many brands prefer to keep their sourcing a closely guarded secret. However, the fact that Lodestone Beverages is involved in the production suggests that they have expertise in selecting and bottling high-quality whiskey.
While the exact origins of the whiskey used in McFarlane Reserve may remain a mystery, it is important to keep in mind that the quality of the final product ultimately depends on the skills and craftsmanship of the white label producer. A skilled producer can work with different sourced whiskies to create a well-balanced and flavorful bourbon.
In my own experiences, I have come across several white label whiskies that have impressed me with their quality and complexity. These whiskies often showcase the expertise of the producer in selecting and blending different barrels to achieve a desired flavor profile. It can be intriguing to taste a white label whiskey and try to discern any hints or characteristics that may give a clue to its origins.
McFarlane Reserve bourbon is made by Lodestone Beverages, a white label whiskey producer based in Kentucky. While the exact source of the whiskey used in McFarlane Reserve remains undisclosed, the involvement of Lodestone Beverages suggests a level of expertise in sourcing and bottling high-quality whiskey. White label producers play an important role in the whiskey industry, offering brands the opportunity to create unique expressions without owning their own distilleries.