Who makes Hardin’s Creek bourbon?

Answered by Arthur Reyes

Hardin's Creek is crafted by Beam Suntory, a renowned company known for its expertise in creating high-quality bourbons. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring the world of spirits and experiencing the unique flavors and craftsmanship that go into creating each bottle. When it comes to Hardin's Creek, I am particularly intrigued by the limited edition concept that Beam Suntory has introduced.

Beam Suntory, with its rich heritage and tradition in bourbon making, has carefully curated the Hardin's Creek range to showcase the artistry and skill of its master distillers. The first release of Hardin's Creek in 2022 included two distinct expressions: Colonel James B. Beam and Jacob's Well. Each expression offers a different age profile, providing enthusiasts with the opportunity to experience the nuances that time imparts on bourbon.

Colonel James B. Beam is a 2-year-old bourbon that pays tribute to the esteemed Colonel James B. Beam, a legendary figure in the bourbon industry. This expression reflects the early stages of bourbon maturation, where the spirit begins to develop its character and flavor profile. It offers a vibrant and youthful taste, with hints of vanilla, oak, and caramel. The Colonel James B. Beam expression is an excellent choice for those who appreciate the energy and vitality of a younger bourbon.

On the other hand, Jacob's Well represents a more mature and complex offering from the Hardin's Creek range. Aged for 15 years and 4 months, this expression showcases the depth and richness that extended aging can bring to bourbon. The long years spent in the barrel result in a well-rounded and sophisticated flavor profile, with notes of dried fruits, spice, and a velvety smoothness that can only come from time. Jacob's Well is a testament to the patience and dedication of the master distillers who carefully nurture the bourbon throughout its aging process.

It is important to note that the limited edition nature of Hardin's Creek means that these expressions may not be readily available in the market. However, for those fortunate enough to come across a bottle, it is a unique opportunity to savor the craftsmanship and artistry that Beam Suntory has poured into each release.

As a personal anecdote, I had the pleasure of tasting the Colonel James B. Beam expression during a visit to a bourbon distillery. The youthful energy and vibrant flavors of this 2-year-old bourbon left a lasting impression on me. It served as a reminder that even in its early stages, bourbon has the potential to captivate with its distinct character and promise of what's to come with further aging.

Hardin's Creek bourbon is made by Beam Suntory, a well-respected spirits company known for its commitment to crafting exceptional bourbons. The limited edition concept of Hardin's Creek allows enthusiasts to explore the different expressions and age profiles, showcasing the range of flavors and complexities that bourbon can possess. Whether it is the vibrant and youthful Colonel James B. Beam or the mature and sophisticated Jacob's Well, each release exemplifies the artistry and dedication of the master distillers behind Hardin's Creek.