Amador Double Barrel Bourbon Whiskey Chardonnay Finish is distilled at the Willet Family Distillery located in Bardstown, Kentucky. Bardstown, often referred to as the “Bourbon Capital of the World,” has a rich history and tradition in bourbon production. The Willet Family Distillery is one of the oldest distilleries in the area, with roots dating back to the late 18th century.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of visiting Bardstown and experiencing the bourbon-making process firsthand. The distillery is nestled in the heart of Kentucky's picturesque countryside, surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery. The Willet Family Distillery itself is a beautiful facility, with a combination of modern equipment and traditional craftsmanship.
The process of making Amador Double Barrel Bourbon Whiskey begins with the selection of high-quality grains, including corn, wheat, and malted barley. These grains are milled and combined with water to create a mash, which is then fermented using yeast. The fermentation process converts the sugars in the mash into alcohol, creating a “distiller's beer.”
Once the distiller's beer is ready, it is transferred to stills for distillation. The Willet Family Distillery uses traditional pot stills, which allow for a more hands-on and nuanced approach to distilling. The distillation process involves heating the liquid to separate the alcohol from other impurities, resulting in a higher-proof spirit.
After distillation, the bourbon is placed in new charred American oak barrels for aging. The barrels play a crucial role in developing the flavor and character of the bourbon, as they impart notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. The bourbon is aged for a minimum of 3 years, allowing it to mature and develop complexity.
What sets Amador Double Barrel Bourbon Whiskey apart is its unique finishing process. After the initial aging in new charred oak barrels, the bourbon is transferred to Napa Cellars Chardonnay barrels for an additional 9-12 months. This finishing step adds a layer of complexity and depth to the bourbon, as it absorbs the flavors and nuances of the Chardonnay wine previously stored in the barrels.
The result is a truly special bourbon with a distinct flavor profile. The wheated mash bill, combined with the influence of the Chardonnay barrels, creates a whiskey that is smooth, rich, and well-balanced. The bourbon exhibits notes of caramel, vanilla, toasted oak, and a subtle hint of fruit from the Chardonnay finishing.
Amador Double Barrel Bourbon Whiskey Chardonnay Finish is distilled at the Willet Family Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky. The distillery's commitment to traditional craftsmanship and attention to detail shines through in the exceptional quality of this unique bourbon. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, it is sure to delight bourbon enthusiasts and wine lovers alike.