Widow Jane bourbon is distilled by the Widow Jane Distillery, which was founded in 2012. The distillery is owned by Cacao Prieto, a company that was started by Daniel Prieto Preston, an inventor with a passion for spirits. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of experiencing the craftsmanship of Widow Jane bourbon firsthand.
One of the unique aspects of Widow Jane Distillery is that they both source and distill their whiskeys. This allows them to have control over the entire production process, ensuring the highest quality product. They carefully select the grains that go into their bourbons, using a combination of corn, wheat, and malted barley to create a rich and flavorful spirit.
I remember visiting the Widow Jane Distillery and being struck by the attention to detail in their distillation process. The distillery is located in Red Hook, Brooklyn, and is housed in a former coffee warehouse. The space has been transformed into a beautiful and functional distillery, with copper stills gleaming in the sunlight.
The distillation process at Widow Jane involves multiple steps to ensure that the bourbon reaches its full potential. First, the grains are milled and mixed with water to create a mash. This mash is then fermented using carefully selected yeast strains, which convert the sugars in the grains into alcohol.
Once the fermentation is complete, the liquid is distilled in copper stills. Copper is used in distillation because it helps to remove impurities and create a smoother, more refined spirit. The distillate is then aged in charred oak barrels, which give Widow Jane bourbon its distinct flavor profile.
I have had the pleasure of tasting several expressions of Widow Jane bourbon, and each one has its own unique characteristics. The 10 Year Single Barrel bourbon, for example, has a rich and complex flavor profile, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice. The 12 Year Old bourbon, on the other hand, is exceptionally smooth and well-balanced, with flavors of oak, dark chocolate, and dried fruit.
In addition to their sourced bourbons, Widow Jane also produces their own distillate. This is a testament to their dedication to the craft of distilling, as it requires a deep understanding of the fermentation and distillation processes. The result is a bourbon that is truly unique and reflects the terroir of the Widow Jane Distillery.
Widow Jane bourbon is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of the distillers at the Widow Jane Distillery. From the sourcing of the grains to the careful distillation and aging process, every step is done with precision and care. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail, Widow Jane bourbon is a spirit that demands to be savored and appreciated.