Buzzard’s Roost is set to release its highly anticipated small-batch Kindred Collaboration Bourbon on Saturday, October 26, at its Tasting Room and Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky. Following its tremendous popularity at the Kentucky Bourbon Festival in September, this limited-edition bourbon will once again be available, but only to those in Kentucky.
Image credit: Buzzard’s Roost
The story behind Kindred Collaboration Bourbon is one of family, tradition, and expertise. It was crafted by Buzzard’s Roost Lead Distiller Ethan Spalding in partnership with his father, Chad Spalding, a long-time executive in the cooperage industry. Together, they brought together generations of whiskey-making knowledge, with the family legacy extending to Ethan’s grandfather, Steve Nally, a Hall of Fame Master Distiller known throughout the bourbon industry.
Crafting a Unique Bourbon with a Family Touch
The Kindred Collaboration Bourbon is a 5-year-old double-oaked creation with a carefully selected mash bill of 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley. This mash bill was paired with secondary aging in a Buzzard’s Roost proprietary wave-stave barrel. The specific blend of wood and toasting technique was chosen by Ethan and Chad to deliver a flavor profile that they both enjoy, making it a bourbon born from shared taste and passion.
What makes the wave-stave barrel process so distinctive is the extra level of care that goes into both the seasoning and charring of the barrels. Buzzard’s Roost uses 18-month-seasoned oak barrels and relies exclusively on a Char #1 finish, which helps coax more intricate flavors from the wood. This secondary maturation process is a signature of Buzzard’s Roost whiskeys, setting them apart in both depth and complexity.
A Special Release for Kentucky Whiskey Fans
On October 26, fans of Buzzard’s Roost will have a chance to experience Kindred Collaboration Bourbon firsthand at the Tasting Room in Louisville. The event kicks off at 11 a.m. with Lead Distiller Ethan Spalding on hand to meet fans and sign bottles. For those curious to sample before purchasing, tasting pours will be available. Each bottle will be priced at $65, and since this is an exclusive Kentucky release, those who want to add this unique bottle to their collection will have to be in Kentucky to do so. After the launch, the bourbon will also be available at select Kentucky retailers.
Reflecting on the creation process, Ethan Spalding said, “My dad and I had a great time working together on Kindred Collaboration. We tasted through dozens of blends and second-barrel finishes and landed on one that my dad and I both really love.” This collaboration reflects not only the technical expertise of both father and son but also their shared appreciation for the unique flavors they could bring to life together.
Buzzard’s Roost: Innovation in Every Sip
Buzzard’s Roost Sipping Whiskey has made a name for itself as an independent blender, bottler, and distiller known for innovative techniques. Using carefully selected barrels and a distinctive secondary aging approach, Buzzard’s Roost has created whiskeys that consistently push the boundaries of flavor. By focusing on Char #1 and precise toasting levels, they’re able to pull out unique flavor profiles, resulting in whiskeys that are unlike anything else on the market.
With distribution spanning 23 markets, including Alberta, Canada, Buzzard’s Roost has expanded its reach while maintaining a firm commitment to quality. While some of its selections are available online, the full Buzzard’s Roost experience can be found at their Tasting Room and Distillery located at 624 W. Main Street in downtown Louisville, Kentucky.
Adding to the brand’s distinctive appeal is the fact that Buzzard’s Roost is a woman-led company, setting it apart in the male-dominated bourbon industry. This leadership, combined with a dedication to craftsmanship and innovation, has helped Buzzard’s Roost carve out a loyal following of whiskey enthusiasts who appreciate its unique approach.
Anticipation Builds for the Kindred Collaboration Release
Buzzard’s Roost’s Kindred Collaboration Bourbon is not just another release – it’s a testament to family tradition, collaboration, and the art of distilling. The combination of a carefully crafted mash bill and the unique secondary aging process using a custom wave-stave barrel is something that has never been done before, setting this bourbon apart from anything else on the market. The Spalding family’s involvement in every stage of the process, from blending to finishing, is what makes this bourbon so special.
Kentucky bourbon fans and collectors will no doubt be lining up for the opportunity to taste and purchase Kindred Collaboration Bourbon, a release that promises to be as memorable as it is exclusive.
About Buzzard’s Roost
Buzzard’s Roost is a boutique whiskey brand that has quickly made a name for itself in the competitive world of American whiskey. Founded by Judy Hollis Jones and Jason Brauner, the brand operates out of Kentucky, a state synonymous with high-quality bourbon production. Buzzard’s Roost focuses on innovation and craftsmanship, aiming to create unique and memorable whiskey expressions that stand out from the crowd.
One of the distinctive features of Buzzard’s Roost is its commitment to the art of re-barreling. After sourcing high-quality, aged whiskey, the team at Buzzard’s Roost re-barrels it in proprietary, custom-toasted and charred barrels. This extra step in the aging process allows the whiskey to develop additional layers of flavor and complexity. The result is a range of whiskeys that exhibit a remarkable depth and richness, with nuanced notes that appeal to both novice and experienced whiskey drinkers.
The brand offers a variety of expressions, including single barrel and small batch releases, each meticulously crafted to showcase the unique characteristics imparted by the re-barreling process. The whiskeys from Buzzard’s Roost often feature a harmonious balance of sweetness, spice, and oak, with a smooth finish that reflects the careful aging and blending techniques employed by the distillers. This attention to detail has earned Buzzard’s Roost a loyal following and critical acclaim within the spirits community.
Buzzard’s Roost also emphasizes transparency and education, aiming to demystify the whiskey-making process for consumers. By sharing insights into their techniques and the rationale behind their methods, the brand fosters a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship that goes into each bottle. This approach not only builds trust with their audience but also enhances the overall whiskey-drinking experience.
In summary, Buzzard’s Roost is a rising star in the American whiskey scene, known for its innovative re-barreling techniques and dedication to quality. The brand’s unique approach to aging and flavor development sets it apart, offering whiskey enthusiasts a range of expressions that are both distinctive and delicious. As Buzzard’s Roost continues to grow and evolve, it remains a testament to the enduring appeal of artisanal craftsmanship in the world of spirits.
