High West Distillery is a renowned whiskey producer located in Park City, Utah. The distillery was founded in 2006 by David Perkins, a former biochemist, and his wife, Jane. The Perkins family had a passion for whiskey and a dream of reviving the tradition of whiskey making in Utah. They set out to create a distillery that would honor the state’s rich history of whiskey production, which dates back to the 1800s.
High West Distillery quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to whiskey making. They were the first legal distillery in Utah since the 1870s and were known for their use of traditional pot stills and locally sourced ingredients. In 2016, High West Distillery was acquired by Constellation Brands, a leading international producer and marketer of beer, wine, and spirits. Despite the acquisition, High West Distillery has continued to uphold its commitment to crafting high-quality, handcrafted whiskeys that pay homage to the heritage of the American West.
Key Takeaways
- High West Whiskey has a rich history dating back to the 1800s, when it was first produced in the American West.
- The distillation process at High West involves a combination of traditional pot stills and modern column stills, resulting in a unique and complex flavor profile.
- High West Whiskey offers a range of unique flavor profiles, from the sweet and spicy Rendezvous Rye to the smoky and robust Campfire blend.
- High West Whiskey pairs well with a variety of foods, from rich and savory dishes to sweet and spicy flavors, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- High West Whiskey can be enjoyed in a variety of cocktails, from classic Old Fashioneds to innovative whiskey-based creations, showcasing its versatility and complexity.
The Distillation Process
High West Distillery takes great pride in its traditional approach to whiskey making. The distillation process begins with the careful selection of locally sourced grains, including corn, rye, and barley. These grains are milled and mashed to create a fermentable mash, which is then fermented using a proprietary yeast strain. The resulting liquid, known as “wash,” is then distilled in traditional copper pot stills to create a high-proof spirit.
After distillation, the whiskey is aged in charred oak barrels, where it develops its complex flavors and aromas. High West Distillery is known for its innovative approach to aging, often experimenting with different barrel types and aging techniques to create unique flavor profiles. The distillery’s commitment to traditional methods and attention to detail results in whiskeys that are rich, flavorful, and well-balanced.
The Unique Flavor Profiles
High West whiskeys are celebrated for their unique flavor profiles, which are a result of the distillery’s meticulous attention to detail and commitment to quality. Each expression offers a distinct combination of flavors and aromas that reflect the distillery’s dedication to craftsmanship and innovation.
One of High West’s most popular whiskeys is the “Double Rye!” This unique blend of two straight rye whiskeys offers a bold and spicy flavor profile with notes of cinnamon, clove, and anise. Another standout expression is the “Campfire,” a blend of straight bourbon, rye, and peated Scotch whiskies. This whiskey offers a smoky and complex flavor profile with hints of caramel, vanilla, and campfire smoke.
High West’s “Bourye” is another fan favorite, blending straight bourbon and rye whiskeys to create a rich and velvety whiskey with notes of honey, dried fruit, and baking spices. Each High West whiskey offers a one-of-a-kind tasting experience that showcases the distillery’s commitment to quality and innovation.
Pairing High West Whiskey with Food
| Food | High West Whiskey Pairing |
|---|---|
| Grilled Steak | American Prairie Bourbon |
| Smoked Salmon | Rendezvous Rye |
| Dark Chocolate | Campfire Whiskey |
| Spicy BBQ Ribs | Double Rye |
Pairing whiskey with food can be a delightful experience that enhances the flavors of both the whiskey and the dish. High West whiskeys are versatile and can be paired with a wide range of foods to create memorable dining experiences.
For example, the bold and spicy flavors of High West’s “Double Rye!” make it an excellent pairing for rich and savory dishes such as barbecued meats or spicy chili. The whiskey’s robust flavors complement the smoky and spicy flavors of the food, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
On the other hand, the rich and velvety “Bourye” pairs beautifully with desserts such as chocolate cake or crème brûlée. The whiskey’s sweet and fruity notes complement the richness of the dessert, creating a decadent and indulgent pairing.
When pairing High West whiskeys with food, it’s important to consider the flavors and aromas of both the whiskey and the dish to create a complementary pairing that enhances the dining experience.
High West Whiskey Cocktails
High West whiskeys are not only enjoyable neat or on the rocks but also make excellent bases for cocktails. The complex flavor profiles of High West whiskeys add depth and character to classic cocktails while also inspiring new and innovative creations.
One popular cocktail featuring High West whiskey is the “Old Fashioned,” a timeless cocktail made with whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus. High West’s “Double Rye!” is an excellent choice for an Old Fashioned, as its bold and spicy flavors shine through in this classic cocktail.
Another popular cocktail featuring High West whiskey is the “Boulevardier,” a variation of the classic Negroni made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Campari. High West’s “Rendezvous Rye” is an ideal choice for a Boulevardier, as its rich and complex flavor profile adds depth to this sophisticated cocktail.
For those looking for a refreshing and summery cocktail, High West’s “American Prairie Bourbon” can be used to create a delicious “Whiskey Sour.” This cocktail combines bourbon with fresh lemon juice and simple syrup for a bright and citrusy drink that showcases the whiskey’s smooth and mellow flavors.
Visiting the High West Distillery
For whiskey enthusiasts looking to immerse themselves in the world of High West Distillery, a visit to their distillery in Park City, Utah is a must. The distillery offers guided tours that provide an in-depth look at their traditional distillation process, aging techniques, and commitment to quality craftsmanship.
During the tour, visitors have the opportunity to explore the distillery’s production facilities, including their copper pot stills and aging warehouses. They can also learn about the history of whiskey making in Utah and the unique flavor profiles that define High West whiskeys.
After the tour, visitors can enjoy tastings of High West’s award-winning whiskeys in their on-site saloon. The saloon offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere where guests can sample a variety of High West expressions while learning about their distinct flavor profiles from knowledgeable staff members.
Collecting and Aging High West Whiskey
High West whiskeys have gained a dedicated following among collectors due to their limited releases and unique flavor profiles. Many enthusiasts enjoy collecting High West whiskeys to explore the diverse range of expressions offered by the distillery.
In addition to collecting, some whiskey enthusiasts also enjoy aging High West whiskeys at home to further develop their flavors. Aging whiskey at home allows enthusiasts to experiment with different aging techniques such as using charred oak barrels or adding unique flavoring agents to create custom blends.
High West whiskeys are well-suited for aging at home due to their high-quality ingredients and traditional distillation process. Enthusiasts can enjoy watching their collection evolve over time as the flavors continue to develop and mature.
In conclusion, High West Distillery has established itself as a leading producer of handcrafted whiskeys that pay homage to the heritage of the American West. With its commitment to traditional methods, innovative aging techniques, and unique flavor profiles, High West whiskeys offer an exceptional tasting experience that appeals to both seasoned whiskey enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Whether enjoyed neat, paired with food, or mixed into cocktails, High West whiskeys continue to captivate drinkers with their rich history and exceptional quality.
Discover the rich history and craftsmanship behind High West Whiskey in this fascinating article by Phoebe Alley. Learn about the distillery’s dedication to creating exceptional spirits and the unique techniques that set their whiskey apart. Dive into the world of whiskey-making and gain a deeper appreciation for the artistry behind each bottle. Check out the article here to uncover the secrets behind High West Whiskey’s renowned flavors.
FAQs
What is High West Whiskey?
High West Whiskey is a brand of American whiskey that is known for its high quality and unique flavor profiles. It is produced in Utah and has gained a strong following among whiskey enthusiasts.
What types of whiskey does High West produce?
High West produces a variety of whiskey types, including bourbon, rye, and blended whiskeys. They also offer limited edition and special release whiskeys.
Where is High West Whiskey produced?
High West Whiskey is produced in Park City, Utah. The distillery is located in a historic building that was once a stable and garage.
What makes High West Whiskey unique?
High West Whiskey is known for its innovative approach to whiskey production, including blending different whiskey types and experimenting with aging techniques. They also use high-quality ingredients and traditional distilling methods.
Is High West Whiskey available for purchase outside of the United States?
Yes, High West Whiskey is available for purchase in select international markets. However, availability may vary depending on the country and local liquor laws.