In a groundbreaking collaboration between Broken Barrel Whiskey and Laurel Canyon Spirits, a new rye whiskey named Black Hjerte has emerged as the latest addition to the ever-expanding realm of artisanal spirits. This unique libation represents a fusion of tradition and innovation, pushing the boundaries of whiskey craftsmanship by infusing the spirit with the essence of coffee liqueur.
Crafted in the heart of Los Angeles, Broken Barrel Whiskey, founded by Seth Benhaim in 2017, has been a trailblazer in redefining the conventional whiskey finishing process. The visionary behind Broken Barrel saw potential in leveraging broken barrels to introduce distinctive flavors to whiskey, capitalizing on alternating staves that conventional barrels lack. The result is a curated collection of whiskeys with a diverse flavor profile, influenced by casks from over a dozen countries, including Barbadian rum, Cognac, Maple, Mizunara, Amontillado, and more.
The latest offering, Black Hjerte, sources its base whiskey from Kentucky's Green River Distilling, formerly known as Owensboro Distilling Co. What sets Black Hjerte apart is its innovative finishing process, which involves the use of staves from barrels previously employed to mature coffee liqueur. This groundbreaking technique imparts a rich tapestry of flavors, elevating the whiskey-drinking experience to new heights.
The intricate mashbill of Black Hjerte comprises 51% corn, 48% rye, and a trace of malted barley, creating a foundation for a spirit bottled at a robust 107 proof. The whiskey boasts a mesmerizing golden amber hue and beckons connoisseurs with a captivating aroma featuring roasted coffee, vanilla buttercream, and the subtle embrace of charred oak.
Collaborating with Laurel Canyon Spirits, helmed by music industry veterans Bryan and Dayna Turcotte, Broken Barrel introduces a distinct finishing touch to Black Hjerte. The Oak Bill, a blend of two-thirds Black Hjerte Coffee Liqueur staves and one-third Blood Orange Coffee Liqueur staves, imparts a symphony of flavors to the whiskey. The limited release of these coffee liqueur barrels adds layers of complexity, with the final product delivering a sensory journey that transcends the ordinary.
On the palate, Black Hjerte unfolds a narrative of citrus zest, caramelized sugar, and the bold bitterness of espresso, creating a harmonious interplay of flavors that lingers on the senses. The finish is marked by a warm citrus sweetness, courtesy of the Blood Orange Coffee Liqueur staves, leaving enthusiasts yearning for another sip.
Founder Seth Benhaim expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, emphasizing the pivotal role of oak in shaping whiskey's flavor. "Our innovative finishing process makes a great Kentucky whiskey taste even better," he remarked in a statement.
For those eager to indulge in the allure of Black Hjerte, the whiskey is available for purchase at specialized retail stores across California and at Broken Barrel's gift shop, situated at 2332 East 8th Street in Downtown Los Angeles. With a suggested retail price of $99, this limited-edition release invites aficionados to explore the marriage of whiskey and coffee liqueur in a symphony of taste and aroma.
For the adventurous spirits enthusiast, Broken Barrel's website offers the opportunity to acquire the Black Hjerte Collaboration directly, with a suggested retail price of $95. The whiskey is not merely a beverage; it is an experience—an invitation to savor the convergence of craftsmanship, innovation, and the rich tapestry of flavors that define the world of artisanal spirits. As the boundaries of whiskey-making continue to be pushed, Broken Barrel Whiskey and Laurel Canyon Spirits stand at the forefront, offering a glimpse into the future of this timeless and ever-evolving craft.
About Broken Barrel Whiskey
Broken Barrel Whiskey is a brand that is recognized for its innovative approach to whiskey blending and finishing. The brand is part of the Infuse Spirits portfolio, a company known for its unique process of infusing spirits with natural flavors.
One of the distinctive features of Broken Barrel Whiskey is its use of a secondary barrel finishing process. After the initial aging in traditional American oak barrels, the whiskey undergoes a second maturation period in barrels that have been "broken" and reassembled. This process is intended to impart additional flavors and complexities to the whiskey, creating a unique and layered profile.
Broken Barrel Whiskey offers a range of expressions, each with its own flavor profile influenced by the secondary barrel finishing. The brand has experimented with various cask types, including wine barrels, which can contribute wine-like characteristics to the final product. These innovative techniques set Broken Barrel apart in a market traditionally dominated by more conventional whiskey production methods.
It's worth noting that the specifics of Broken Barrel's product lineup and availability may evolve, as the whiskey industry is dynamic, and new releases and expressions are introduced over time. For the most current and detailed information about Broken Barrel Whiskey, including its expressions, production methods, and availability, I recommend checking the official website of Broken Barrel or contacting the distillery directly.
