Jefferson's Reserve Bourbon is made by Kentucky Artisan Distillery (KAD), a truly unique establishment in the world of distilleries. As a contract distiller and bottler, KAD plays a vital role in the production of Jefferson's Reserve Bourbon, serving as its home where a significant portion of the distilling, bottling, and aging process takes place.
Located in Crestwood, Kentucky, KAD is nestled in the heart of bourbon country, surrounded by rolling hills and picturesque landscapes. The distillery itself is a sight to behold, with its traditional architecture and state-of-the-art equipment. When I first visited KAD, I was immediately struck by the passion and dedication of the team behind Jefferson's Reserve Bourbon.
At KAD, the process of making Jefferson's Reserve Bourbon begins with the careful selection of grains. The distillery sources high-quality corn, rye, and malted barley, which form the foundation of this exceptional bourbon. The grains are meticulously milled and combined with water to create the mash, which is then cooked and fermented.
One of the aspects that sets KAD apart is their commitment to using traditional distilling methods combined with modern techniques. The mash is distilled in copper stills, which are known for their ability to remove impurities and produce a clean, flavorful spirit. The distillation process involves multiple runs, allowing the distillers to extract the desired flavors and aromas from the mash.
Once the distillation is complete, the bourbon is transferred to charred oak barrels for aging. KAD boasts an impressive warehouse filled with rows upon rows of barrels, patiently waiting for the bourbon to develop its unique character over time. The aging process is a crucial step in bourbon production, as it allows the spirit to interact with the wood, gaining complexity and depth of flavor.
During my visit to KAD, I had the opportunity to witness the meticulous care that goes into the aging process. The barrels are stored in a temperature-controlled environment, ensuring optimal conditions for the bourbon to mature gracefully. The team at KAD regularly monitors the aging barrels, sampling the bourbon to determine its progress and making adjustments when necessary.
Once the bourbon has reached its desired maturity, it is time for bottling. KAD has a well-equipped bottling line, where every bottle of Jefferson's Reserve Bourbon is meticulously filled, labeled, and packaged. I was impressed by the attention to detail and the precision with which each bottle was handled.
Being a contract distiller and bottler, KAD also works closely with the team behind Jefferson's Reserve Bourbon to ensure that the final product meets their exacting standards. This collaboration between the distillery and the brand is a testament to the dedication and expertise of both parties.
Kentucky Artisan Distillery is the proud maker of Jefferson's Reserve Bourbon. Their commitment to quality, traditional distilling methods, and attention to detail shines through in every bottle. Visiting KAD was an enlightening experience, allowing me to witness firsthand the passion and craftsmanship that goes into creating this exceptional bourbon.