As an expert sommelier and brewer, I am well-versed in the world of spirits and distilleries. When it comes to Old Elk, it is interesting to note that while they do operate their own distillery in Colorado, the majority of the distillate used in their products does not actually come from their own facility. Instead, they source their distillate from a renowned distillery called MGP.
MGP, short for Midwest Grain Products, is a distillery based in Lawrenceburg, Indiana. They have been around since 1847 and have gained a reputation for producing high-quality distillate that is often used by various brands in the industry. Old Elk is one such brand that utilizes MGP's distillate in their production process.
Now, you might be wondering how Old Elk can claim to have their own distillery if they primarily use MGP's distillate. Well, the answer lies in the fact that Old Elk does have their own distillery, but they focus on the aging, blending, and finishing aspects of the whiskey-making process. They take the distillate from MGP and then put their own unique spin on it to create their final products.
Old Elk's distillery in Colorado serves as a facility for maturing and finishing the whiskey. They have their own proprietary yeast strain and a unique blending process that sets them apart from other brands. The distillate sourced from MGP acts as a base for Old Elk, which they then transform into their own distinct flavor profiles through careful aging and blending techniques.
It's worth noting that MGP's distillate is highly regarded in the industry, known for its quality and consistency. Many well-known brands rely on MGP for their whiskey production, and Old Elk is no exception. By partnering with MGP, Old Elk is able to ensure a consistent and reliable base for their whiskey while focusing on the aspects of aging and blending that they excel in.
In my personal experience, I have found that Old Elk's products showcase a level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that is indicative of their expertise in aging and blending. While the distillate may come from MGP, it is the additional steps taken by Old Elk that truly make their whiskey unique and enjoyable.
To summarize, while Old Elk does have their own distillery in Colorado, they primarily source their distillate from MGP in Indiana. However, this does not diminish their role in the whiskey-making process. Old Elk adds their own touch through aging, blending, and finishing the distillate, resulting in distinct and flavorful products that bear their name.