Levi KeswickKey Takeaways:
- Bulleit Bourbon’s compelling and slightly mysterious history
- The unique making process of Bulleit Bourbon
- The distinctive ingredients and flavors that set Bulleit apart
- An overview of Bulleit’s journey to popularity
- How to savor Bulleit Bourbon in all its glory
Unveiling the Past: Bulleit Bourbon’s Fascinating History
In the world of spirits, Bulleit Bourbon stands out not just for its distinctive taste but for its captivating history as well. Originally the brainchild of Augustus Bulleit, this whiskey brand was more akin to rye whiskey than bourbon in its infancy. The saga took an unexpected twist when Augustus vanished mysteriously during a trip from Kentucky to New Orleans, leaving his creation in the ether until his great-great-grandson, Tom Bulleit, took up the mantle in 1987.
The turn of the century saw the brand being acquired by Seagram, marking its expansion to global markets like Australia, Germany, and the UK. Bulleit continued its journey under the Diageo umbrella after it acquired Seagram’s assets, and in 2019, they opened a visitor center in Kentucky, offering whiskey aficionados an immersive experience, including a chance to customize their Bulleit label.
Crafting the Spirit: The Making of Bulleit Bourbon
Bulleit Bourbon is a product of craftsmanship, aged for at least six years in new American oak barrels charred to perfection. Produced in the Bulleit Distillery in Shelbyville, the bourbon employs special strains of yeast and Kentucky limestone-filtered water in its making, leading to its unique flavor profile.
A Medley of Flavor: The Key Ingredients of Bulleit
What truly sets Bulleit Bourbon apart is its distinctive blend of ingredients. Augustus Bulleit, with his rich experience as a tavern keeper in the 1800s, sought to create a bourbon with a unique aroma and blend that stood out from other brands. His quest led to a favorite mash bill composed of 66% rye and 33% corn.
When Tom revived his grandfather’s recipe, he adapted the mash bill to fit contemporary standards, resulting in a bourbon blend of 68% corn, 28% rye, and 4% barley malt. The high rye content, a nod to his grandfather’s recipe, infuses the bourbon with spicy flavors, adding to its charm.
The Journey to Popularity: Bulleit’s Rise to Fame
Bulleit Bourbon has etched its place in the whiskey world, particularly in California, where it dominates cocktail menus. The demand for rye whiskey in cocktails reached such a peak that Tom Bulleit released Bulleit Rye Whiskey in 2011, akin to his grandfather’s creation.
The brand also made its way into popular culture, featuring in HBO’s Deadwood. The distinct russet-colored Bulleit bourbon bottle became a familiar sight in many episodes. Despite some family conflicts, the brand’s popularity has only grown, a testament to the enduring allure of its unique flavors and distinctive bottle design.
Embracing the Bulleit Experience: Savoring the Bourbon
Bulleit Bourbon, with its rye, honey, and cinnamon flavor notes, is best savored neat. The experience begins with a slow sip, allowing the spirit to fully coat your tongue before swallowing, thus revealing its spicy note courtesy of its high rye content.
For those who find its rye taste a bit overpowering, a dash of water or serving it on the rocks can tame the strength. A Glencairn glass is recommended to allow the aroma of the whiskey and rye to open up fully, although a rocks glass will serve just as well.
In conclusion, the Bulleit Bourbon bottle is much more than a mere receptacle for whiskey. It encapsulates a compelling history, an intricate crafting process, and a distinctive blend of flavors that all contribute to its unique charm and appeal. It stands as a testament to a legacy revived and a brand that has come to leave a significant mark in the world of spirits.
