In the heart of Colorado's crisp winters, nothing beats settling in by a roaring fire with a glass of fine bourbon in hand. It's that simple ritual that grounds a man after a long day, evoking memories of good company and stories shared. Lately, a fresh player from Denver is shaking things up in the whiskey world—Onyx & Amber, a brand that's drawing eyes with its sophisticated approach to crafting spirits that deliver real value without the hype.
The story starts with Benjamin Rosen, a guy who's no stranger to the bourbon scene. For almost ten years, he led a single-barrel whiskey club, hand-picking more than 150 barrels from distilleries all over the country. Those were the days when enthusiasts could dive deep into selections, finding hidden gems that made every sip worthwhile. But then the COVID-19 pandemic hit, and everything shifted. Distilleries started offering fewer barrels, jacking up prices, and skimping on quality. It left a lot of folks frustrated, including Rosen.
Determined to flip the script, Rosen turned his club into something bigger: Onyx & Amber. The goal was straightforward—put the control back where it belongs, with the drinkers themselves. As Rosen put it, "We wanted to being the power back to the consumer, allowing them to find high age/high quality whiskies at a price that they could actually stomach." It's a sentiment that resonates with anyone who's tired of overpaying for mediocre bottles or dealing with the inflated egos in the industry. By focusing on sourcing and curating top-notch whiskeys, Onyx & Amber aims to make premium spirits accessible again, without compromising on the craftsmanship that true aficionados demand.
Nestled at 1330 Zuni Street, Unit J, in Denver, the distillery isn't just a production spot—it's a hub for whiskey lovers looking to immerse themselves. Visitors can sample nearly every bottle on the shelves right there, getting a real feel for what they're buying. Guided tastings and tours round out the offerings, turning a simple stop into an educational adventure. It's the kind of place where you can spend an afternoon learning the nuances of aging and blending, all while enjoying the camaraderie of fellow enthusiasts.
For those who crave more hands-on involvement, Onyx & Amber steps it up with unique experiences available by appointment. Picture this: booking a private barrel selection session, where you get to choose your own cask, or diving into blending classes that let you craft a custom mix. They even offer guest blender small-batch collaborations, giving you a chance to experiment alongside experts. It's not just about drinking whiskey—it's about becoming part of the process, something that appeals to men who've spent years building their own collections and appreciate the art behind the pour.
The lineup at Onyx & Amber covers a solid range, from American whiskeys and ryes to those standout 12-year single-barrel bourbons that can anchor any home bar. One highlight is their Straight Bourbon Whiskey, clocking in at a robust 111.6 proof. This one's distilled in Indiana, then bottled right in Denver after being curated from barrels aged between seven and twelve years. To add that Colorado twist, it's further matured in the state's climate for anywhere from six months to three years, which brings out unique flavors shaped by the high altitude and dry air.
On the nose, this bourbon greets you with intriguing notes of violet and rose candies, mingling with light maple syrup and fresh wood shavings. There's a touch of leather in there too, along with brown sugar and a faint whisper of peaches that keeps things balanced and inviting. It's the sort of profile that evolves in the glass, rewarding patient sipping on a quiet evening.
Then there's the Gobstopper Bourbon, a real standout that's been turning heads. This one's over ten years old and gets a special finish in a W.L. Weller cask for six months, resulting in a smooth, wheated balance that's hard to forget. It's got that layered complexity that makes you want to savor every drop, perhaps while reminiscing about past adventures or planning the next one. Bottles like this aren't just drinks—they're conversation starters, perfect for sharing with buddies over a game or a backyard fire pit.
Getting your hands on Onyx & Amber isn't a hassle either. You can find their bottles at select spots around Colorado, like Argonaut Wine & Liquor in Denver, Luxe Liquor in Castle Rock, Bevy's Liquor World in Littleton, and Cantina Liquors in Wellington. These retailers make it easy to grab a bottle on your way home from work or during a weekend errand run.
But if you're after the complete picture, nothing beats heading straight to the source in Denver. The distillery's setup encourages exploration, from casual tastings to those deeper dives into blending. Hours can shift, so the smart move is to check their Instagram for the latest updates—that way, you won't miss out on any special events or releases. It's an experience that goes beyond the bottle, fostering a sense of community among guys who value quality, tradition, and a bit of mystery in their whiskey.
In a market flooded with options, Onyx & Amber stands out by keeping things grounded and genuine. It's a reminder that great bourbon doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag or unnecessary frills. For anyone who's ever felt let down by the post-pandemic shifts in the industry, this Denver outfit offers a refreshing path forward—one sip at a time. Whether you're building your collection or just looking for that next reliable pour, Onyx & Amber proves that sometimes, the best revolutions start with a simple idea and a lot of heart.
