Henry McKenna 10 year is made by Heaven Hill Distillery, one of the oldest and largest independent, family-owned distilleries in the United States. Heaven Hill has been producing bourbon for over 80 years and is known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
The McKenna brand itself has a long history dating back to the 1800s. The whiskey is named after Henry McKenna, an Irish immigrant who settled in Kentucky and began distilling bourbon in Fairfield, Nelson County. The brand has changed hands over the years, but it is currently owned and produced by Heaven Hill.
Heaven Hill takes great pride in its bourbon-making process, which involves sourcing the highest quality ingredients and utilizing traditional methods. The distillery carefully selects the grains used in their mash bill, which consists of corn, rye, and malted barley. These grains are ground and mixed with water to create a mash, which is then fermented with yeast to convert the sugars into alcohol.
After fermentation, the mash is distilled in copper stills to separate the alcohol from the impurities. This distillate, known as “white dog,” is then aged in new, charred oak barrels. The aging process is crucial in developing the flavors and smoothness of the bourbon. For Henry McKenna 10 year, the whiskey is aged for a minimum of 10 years, allowing it to develop rich, complex flavors.
Throughout the aging process, the bourbon undergoes changes in flavor, color, and aroma as it interacts with the oak barrels. The charred interior of the barrels imparts notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice, while also mellowing out any harsh flavors. The longer the bourbon ages, the more time it has to develop these flavors and create a smoother, more refined product.
Once the bourbon has reached its desired age, it is carefully selected and bottled by Heaven Hill. Each bottle of Henry McKenna 10 year is individually numbered, signifying its unique characteristics and quality. The distillery takes pride in the attention to detail and craftsmanship that goes into every bottle.
Personally, I have had the pleasure of tasting Henry McKenna 10 year on several occasions, and I have always been impressed by its depth and complexity. The bourbon offers a rich, full-bodied flavor with notes of caramel, oak, and a hint of spice. It has a smooth, lingering finish that makes it a pleasure to sip and savor.
Heaven Hill's Henry McKenna 10 year is a testament to the distillery's dedication to producing exceptional bourbon. The brand's long history, traditional methods, and commitment to quality all contribute to the outstanding flavor and character of this whiskey. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail, Henry McKenna is a bourbon that is sure to delight any whiskey enthusiast.
