Hillrock whiskey is made by owner Jeff Baker and master distiller Dave Pickerell in New York. They are known for their commitment to producing high-quality, handcrafted small-batch whiskies using traditional methods.
At Hillrock, they take great pride in their unique approach to whiskey production. One of the key factors that sets them apart is their use of floor malted grain. Instead of buying malted barley from outside sources, they malt their own grain on-site. This allows them to have complete control over the entire production process, ensuring the highest quality malt for their whiskies.
The malted grain is then distilled in a copper pot still. Copper is widely regarded as the best material for distillation due to its ability to remove impurities and enhance the flavors of the spirit. The pot still method is known for producing a more flavorful and aromatic whiskey compared to other distillation methods.
After distillation, the whiskey is aged in fine oak barrels. Hillrock takes great care in selecting the right barrels to age their spirit, as they believe that the wood plays a crucial role in developing the flavors and character of the whiskey. They source their oak barrels from reputable cooperages, ensuring that only the finest wood is used in the aging process.
Hillrock whiskies are aged for a significant period of time, allowing the flavors to develop and mature. The aging process adds complexity, depth, and richness to the whiskey, resulting in a smooth and well-balanced spirit.
I had the pleasure of visiting Hillrock Distillery and witnessing their whiskey-making process firsthand. It was truly a remarkable experience to see the dedication and passion that goes into every step of the production. From the malting of the grain to the careful selection of barrels, it was evident that Jeff Baker and Dave Pickerell are committed to creating exceptional whiskies.
The result of their efforts is a range of whiskies that showcase the unique flavors and characteristics of their terroir. Each bottle of Hillrock whiskey is a testament to their craftsmanship and commitment to quality.
Hillrock whiskey is made by owner Jeff Baker and master distiller Dave Pickerell in New York. They employ traditional methods such as floor malting their own grain and distilling in copper pot stills. The whiskey is then aged in fine oak barrels to develop its flavors. The dedication and passion of Jeff Baker and Dave Pickerell are evident in the exceptional quality of their handcrafted small-batch whiskies.