Highline Spirits, a pioneering woman-owned brand, has burst onto the spirits scene with a diverse range of four exceptional whiskey expressions. Founded by Christi Lower, a former pediatric surgery physician's assistant, mother of four, and a devoted whiskey enthusiast, Highline Spirits is making waves in the industry with its innovative approach to crafting premium small-batch spirits.
Christi Lower's journey into the world of spirits was driven by a relentless curiosity and a determination to challenge the status quo. She questioned why blending was considered a taboo subject and why it mattered if a spirit hailed from a single distillery and location. Her exploration led her to ponder the impact of different types of barrels on spirits and why diversity and representation in the spirits industry were lacking. With these questions as her guide, she embarked on a mission to create Highline Spirits, focusing on sourcing, blending, batching, and special-finishing premium small-batch spirits.
Over the years, Christi Lower delved deeper into the intricacies of the industry, developing a profound fascination for how a spirit evolves based on factors like weather, terroir, wood, grain, and yeast. She recognized the need for more diversity and innovation in the world of spirits, understanding that the spirits industry should evolve to reflect the changing cultural landscape.
Living by this philosophy, Christi Lower assembled a team of passionate individuals to join her in the Highline Spirits venture. Kate Keister, an LGBTQ+ community member with extensive warehouse and supply chain management experience, took on the role of Warehouse and Production Manager. Kate Arbour, boasting over two decades of global hospitality and project management experience, assumed the position of Director of Operations.
Now, Highline Spirits proudly introduces its inaugural lineup of limited-edition flagship products:
- Bourbon Whiskey: This blend of five, six, and eight-year straight bourbons offers enticing caramel and butterscotch notes with a subtle hint of baking spice on the nose. The palate culminates in the light oak undertones characteristic of aged Kentucky bourbon. It boasts a bold 51% ABV and 102 proof, available at $64.99.
- Triple Rye Whiskey: With aromas of cocoa and dark cherry, this whiskey presents lingering flavors of malt chocolate and stone fruit. A blend of five, 5.5, and 10-year-old whiskies, it carries a 48.5% ABV and 97 proof, retailing at $79.99.
- Straight Kentucky Whiskey: Aged for eight years, this whiskey delivers rich caramel, vanilla, and malted chocolate flavors with a smooth palate and a gentle, lingering finish. It boasts a 50% ABV and 100 proof, available at $49.99.
- American Whiskey: Crafted by blending two high-rye Indiana bourbons, a Kentucky heritage bourbon, and a straight wheat whiskey, all finished in new American, French, and Hungarian toasted oak barrels. Bottled at cask strength, this blend of five, six, seven, and eight-year-old whiskies offers notes of caramel, sweet stone fruit, and baking spice. It impressively features a 56% ABV and 112 proof, retailing at $139.99.
Highline Spirits has made its debut in Michigan and is also accessible online through highlinespirits.com. The brand is well-prepared for production, boasting an inventory of over 4,000 barrels aged from 10 years to new fill. Furthermore, they have secured production schedules for more than 3,500 barrels annually, demonstrating their commitment to delivering exceptional spirits.
In the months to come, Highline Spirits has ambitious plans to diversify its product line, encompassing gin, rum, tequila, and vodka. Looking ahead, they aim to achieve global distribution within the next decade, positioning themselves as a dynamic and influential player in the spirits industry.
To offer enthusiasts and connoisseurs a firsthand taste of their exceptional creations, Highline Spirits is set to open its Tasting Room in Dexter, Michigan, in early September. This spacious facility spanning 2,400 square feet will serve as a gathering space and allow for whiskey tasting classes and bottle purchases. Additionally, a second tasting room in Plymouth, Michigan, is on the horizon and scheduled to open in late fall, further expanding the brand's presence and reach. With a commitment to innovation, diversity, and exceptional craftsmanship, Highline Spirits is poised to make a significant impact in the world of spirits.
Meet The Founder - Christi Lower
Introducing a true pioneer in the spirits industry. Against a backdrop of skepticism and negativity, our founder Christi Lower is boldly transforming the landscape, crafting exceptional blends step by step with unwavering determination.
Christi envisioned a spirits company that breaks free from convention, unburdened by tradition, history, or heritage. Instead, her driving forces are culture, art, diversity, and, above all, an unwavering commitment to excellence. Highline Spirits is the embodiment of her vision, a testament to the potency of dreams and sheer determination.
Let's raise a glass to the women who dare to dream, to those who fearlessly challenge the status quo and forge ahead despite the odds. Let's celebrate visionaries like Christi, whose story serves as a tribute to all individuals out there dismantling barriers, pushing boundaries, and redefining the rules of the game. And remember, this is just the start of an incredible journey.
About Highline Spirits
Highline Spirits is a relatively new and innovative player in the alcoholic beverage industry, specializing in the production of high-quality craft spirits, particularly gin and vodka. Founded with a passion for crafting exceptional spirits, Highline Spirits has quickly gained recognition for its commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and creative flavor profiles.
One of the standout products from Highline Spirits is its gin, which has garnered attention for its unique and botanical-forward approach. Highline's gin is often characterized by a distinct flavor profile that combines traditional botanicals with more contemporary and exotic ingredients. This approach allows them to create gins with a refreshing twist, appealing to a diverse range of consumers and cocktail enthusiasts.
In addition to its gin offerings, Highline Spirits also produces premium vodka. Their vodka is known for its smoothness and purity, achieved through meticulous distillation processes and the use of high-quality ingredients. This commitment to quality has earned Highline a reputation for producing vodka that is both versatile and suitable for a variety of cocktail creations.
What sets Highline Spirits apart is its dedication to innovation and experimentation in the world of craft spirits. The company often releases limited-edition or seasonal products that showcase their creativity and willingness to push boundaries in terms of flavor and production techniques. These limited releases are eagerly anticipated by spirits enthusiasts and collectors, adding an element of excitement to the brand.
Highline Spirits is also known for its engagement with the cocktail and mixology community. The company frequently collaborates with bartenders and mixologists to create unique cocktail recipes and provide inspiration to those looking to craft distinctive drinks using their products. This collaborative approach has helped establish Highline as a brand that is closely aligned with the evolving trends and preferences of the cocktail scene.
In summary, Highline Spirits is a dynamic and innovative craft spirits producer that has gained recognition for its unique approach to gin and vodka. With a focus on quality, creativity, and collaboration with the mixology community, Highline Spirits is carving out a niche in the competitive world of craft spirits and is likely to continue making waves in the industry.
Read more on the Highline Spirits website.
[Image credit: Highline Spirits website]
