In a move that has whiskey enthusiasts buzzing with excitement, Beam Suntory has just dropped a remarkable release that showcases the profound influence of terroir on the flavor of your favorite Kentucky bourbon. The 2023 Hardin’s Creek Kentucky Series Trio-Pack, consisting of three 200-milliliter bottles, Clermont, Frankfort, and Boston expressions, is poised to revolutionize the way we think about the impact of location on our beloved spirits.
A Journey Through Kentucky's Distilling Legacy
These limited-edition gems are a testament to the craftsmanship and legacy of the James B. Beam Distilling Co., a distillery with over 227 years of history in the making. Each expression, meticulously crafted and aged for precisely 17 years, shares a common mashbill and a hearty 55% ABV, but what sets them apart is the distinct Kentucky location where they underwent their transformative maturation process.
Clermont, Frankfort, and Boston - Not Just Names, But Terroirs
The first release, Clermont, kicked off the series earlier this year, earning an impressive 8/10 score from Whiskey Raiders. It was followed by Frankfort and then Boston, both of which secured equally laudable ratings. These bourbons bear the names of the very locations where they were matured, and that is where the magic truly begins.
Clermont, situated amid rolling hills and cool winds, imparts a flavor profile marked by burnt sugar, matured toasted oak, and vanilla. The Frankfort expression, housed in a more humid environment, tantalizes the palate with delicate oak wood notes, hints of campfire, and a touch of cigar box. Lastly, the Boston-based bourbon brings a delightful bouquet of toasted marshmallow, dark chocolate, and subtle coconut. Each sip promises to be an extraordinary journey through the terroirs of Kentucky.
Read more about the Boston release here.
Tasting Notes From The Brand
Hardin’s Creek Clermont
- Nose: Burnt sugar tripled with matured toasted oak and vanilla.
- Taste: Forward caramelized oak, followed by brown spices and hints of seasoned leather.
- Finish: Smooth, sweet, with lingering warmth.
Hardin’s Creek Frankfort
- Nose: Delicate oak wood with hints of campfire and cigar box.
- Taste: Concentrated sweet caramel, raisin, sweet floral tobacco.
- Finish: Sweet oak, aged wood tones.
Hardin’s Creek Boston
- Nose: Toasted marshmallow, dark chocolate, slight coconut.
- Taste: Soft caramel with vanilla, and oak tones. Coupled with hazelnut.
- Finish: Sweet baking spices.
Terroir: The Unseen Artisan
These distinctive profiles underline the profound influence of the micro-climates and environments at each location, showcasing how Mother Nature plays a vital role in liquid maturation. As eighth-generation Beam Master Distiller Freddie Noe expressed, "Set it and let nature take over," echoing the wisdom of his Granddaddy Booker Noe.
The Hardin’s Creek Kentucky Series Trio-Pack offers a unique opportunity to explore the nuances and subtleties of terroir in whiskey. While the initial 750-milliliter expressions commanded $170 each, this bundle of three 200-milliliter bottles is now available at a reasonable price of $175, making it accessible to enthusiasts eager to embark on this flavor journey.
How to Get Your Hands on This Whiskey Experience
If you're looking to add this extraordinary tasting experience to your collection, you can find it at specialized retailers or conveniently order it online at ReserveBar. However, take note that pre-orders are available, with an estimated delivery date in October or as soon as it becomes available in your market.
A Taste Test Like No Other
So, once you've secured your trio-pack, what's next? The true enjoyment lies in comparing these three remarkable expressions side by side. Sip each carefully, take diligent notes, discuss your findings with a fellow whiskey connoisseur, and become your own judge in this immersive tasting journey.
The Hardin’s Creek Kentucky Series Trio-Pack is more than just a bundle of whiskeys; it's a testament to the rich heritage of the Beam family and the remarkable story that has unfolded over 227 years. This offering, packed with liquid history and terroir exploration, is a tribute to the art of whiskey-making and a must-have for aficionados eager to savor the impact of terroir on their beloved Kentucky bourbons. Happy sipping!
Pre-order today at ReserveBar.
About Hardin's Creek
Hardin's Creek is a series of unique and rare, limited-edition whiskeys introduced by the James B. Beam Distilling Company. It is a next-generation, premium American whiskey inspired by the expertise of seven generations of the Beam family. The brand explores the depth and breadth of whiskey-making, incorporating various elements such as age, blending, mash bill, distillation, barrels, and rackhouse.
One of the notable releases from Hardin's Creek is the "Frankfort" edition, a 17-year-old bourbon aged at The James B. Beam Distilling Co.'s Frankfort campus in Kentucky. This expression showcases the brand's commitment to producing high-quality, well-aged whiskeys.
Another release, the Hardin's Creek: Colonel James B. Beam aims to challenge the notion that a bourbon's age is synonymous with its taste. This particular whiskey demonstrates the brand's focus on flavor and craftsmanship, rather than simply relying on maturation time.
The brand also embarked on an ambitious experiment in Kentucky terroir with its Kentucky Series: Clermont bourbon. This expression offers a surprising level of sweetness, showcasing the brand's ability to create unique flavor profiles.
In terms of mash bill, the Hardin's Creek whiskeys are a blend of high-corn and high-rye, resulting in a balanced and complex flavor profile This combination of grains adds depth and character to the brand's offerings, further highlighting its commitment to quality and innovation.
About James B. Beam Distilling Company
The James B. Beam Distilling Company, commonly known as Jim Beam, is one of the most iconic and well-established names in the world of American whiskey. Founded in 1795 by Jacob Beam in Clermont, Kentucky, it has a rich history spanning over two centuries. The company's heritage is deeply rooted in traditional bourbon production, making it a cornerstone of Kentucky's bourbon heritage.
Jim Beam is renowned for its commitment to producing bourbon whiskey with a consistent and distinct flavor profile. The brand's flagship product, Jim Beam Original, is made from a mash bill primarily consisting of corn, along with rye and malted barley. It is aged in new charred oak barrels for a minimum of four years, meeting the legal requirements for being classified as straight bourbon.
The distillery has remained in the Beam family for several generations, with James B. Beam, commonly known as "Jim Beam," taking over in the early 20th century. Under his leadership, the brand continued to grow and gain prominence in the American whiskey industry. Today, it is one of the best-selling bourbon brands globally.
Jim Beam is also known for its innovation within the bourbon industry. They have produced a range of different expressions, including small-batch bourbons like Booker's and Knob Creek, which offer unique flavor profiles and higher proof levels. Additionally, they have experimented with various finishes and limited-edition releases to cater to the evolving tastes of whiskey enthusiasts.
The company's commitment to quality extends to its dedication to preserving traditional bourbon-making techniques. The use of limestone-filtered water from the region and the expertise of its master distillers have been key in maintaining the consistency and quality that whiskey lovers associate with the Jim Beam name.
In 2014, Jim Beam became part of Beam Suntory, a global spirits company that continues to uphold the traditions and legacy of the James B. Beam Distilling Company. While the brand has expanded its reach internationally, it remains deeply connected to its Kentucky roots and the heritage of American bourbon, making it a symbol of enduring excellence in the world of whiskey.
