Castle & Key Distillery, known for reviving the historic Old Taylor Distillery in Kentucky, is celebrating a significant milestone with the release of its highly anticipated Cask Strength Wheated Bourbon. This special edition marks the 10th anniversary of the distillery’s revitalization and is the oldest age-stated bourbon they’ve produced, aged for seven years. For whiskey enthusiasts, the new Cask Strength Wheated Bourbon offers a unique drinking experience, representing both tradition and innovation in the world of Kentucky bourbon.
Image credit: Castle & Key Distillery
A Decade of Tradition and Innovation
Castle & Key Distillery, located in Woodford County, Kentucky, has a rich history deeply tied to the state's bourbon-making tradition. Originally founded as the Old Taylor Distillery, the property had fallen into disrepair after decades of neglect. In 2014, the Castle & Key team began restoring the property with a vision of creating world-class spirits while preserving the heritage of Kentucky bourbon. The release of the Cask Strength Wheated Bourbon marks ten years since this journey began.
Co-founder Will Arvin reflects on the distillery’s revival, stating, “In 2014, when we started restoring the Old Taylor Distillery, we were thinking about creating products that would embody Kentucky's rich distilling heritage. The new Cask Strength Wheated Bourbon is a testament to our commitment to quality and is a favorite among our team.”
A Unique Mash Bill for a Distinctive Flavor
One of the key factors setting this bourbon apart is its unique mash bill. Made from 73% locally sourced non-GMO white corn, 10% white winter wheat, and 17% malted barley, the use of white winter wheat instead of the more traditional red wheat contributes to the bourbon’s distinctive flavor profile. According to Brett Connors, the Lead Blender at Castle & Key, the use of white winter wheat adds “a sweet roundness and depth that shines after seven years in the barrel.”
The Cask Strength Wheated Bourbon is blended from hand-selected barrels laid down during Castle & Key’s first production year, ensuring that it represents the heart of their distilling tradition. The bourbon is bottled at 52.8% ABV (107 proof), making it a robust and flavorful offering that can be enjoyed in its purest form or in cocktails.
Tasting Notes:
Whiskey enthusiasts will appreciate the depth of flavor in this bourbon, which offers a sensory journey from the nose to the finish. On the nose, you’ll find notes of orange zest, brûléed peach, and baked nutmeg, which create an inviting and rich aroma. As you take a sip, flavors of red apple, mango, black pepper, and walnut come forward, offering a well-rounded taste experience. The finish is long-lasting, with hints of oatmeal cinnamon cookie, dried cherry, and chai spices lingering on the palate.
This complexity makes the Cask Strength Wheated Bourbon a versatile spirit, perfect for sipping neat, over ice, or in a carefully crafted cocktail. The robust flavor also makes it an ideal choice for bourbon lovers who appreciate depth and maturity in their whiskey.
A Milestone Release for Castle & Key
At a suggested retail price of $60 for a 750ml bottle, the Cask Strength Wheated Bourbon is priced competitively, especially given its age and quality. It is available in select states, including Arkansas, California, Florida, and New York, with more locations to be added. This release marks the second wheated bourbon in Castle & Key’s portfolio, but it stands out as the oldest and most mature product they have offered to date.
For those eager to explore Castle & Key’s offerings, this bourbon serves as a landmark in the distillery’s growing collection. Not only does it showcase the team’s dedication to quality and craftsmanship, but it also reflects their ability to innovate within the bourbon industry while honoring the tradition of Kentucky distilling.
The Future of Castle & Key
The Cask Strength Wheated Bourbon represents a decade of hard work, passion, and dedication to the art of distilling. Castle & Key Distillery has successfully transformed from a historic but neglected property into a leading name in the bourbon world. With this release, they have proven that their commitment to tradition doesn’t hinder their ability to innovate and push the boundaries of what bourbon can be.
For bourbon lovers, the Cask Strength Wheated Bourbon is a must-try, whether you're a seasoned whiskey connoisseur or someone new to wheated bourbons. As the distillery continues to grow, it’s clear that Castle & Key is poised to become an even more prominent player in the Kentucky bourbon scene. The release of this bourbon not only celebrates their past ten years but also sets the stage for an exciting future.
To learn more about Castle & Key’s spirits, including their latest releases, tours, and tastings, visit their official website at CastleAndKey.com.
Conclusion
Castle & Key’s Cask Strength Wheated Bourbon is more than just a bottle of whiskey; it’s a celebration of the distillery’s revival and the rich history of Kentucky bourbon. Aged seven years, crafted with locally sourced ingredients, and bottled at 107 proof, this bourbon offers a complex and satisfying drinking experience. Whether enjoyed neat or in a cocktail, this release is sure to delight bourbon lovers across the country.
With this latest offering, Castle & Key continues to solidify its place as a leader in the world of bourbon, combining tradition and innovation to create something truly special. As they celebrate their 10th anniversary, the Cask Strength Wheated Bourbon stands as a testament to their success and a glimpse into the exciting future ahead.
About Castle & Key Distillery
Castle & Key Distillery is a renowned craft distillery located in Frankfort, Kentucky, with a rich history that blends tradition and modern innovation. Originally founded in 1887 by legendary distiller Colonel Edmund Haynes Taylor Jr., the site was once home to the historic Old Taylor Distillery. Taylor was a key figure in shaping the bourbon industry and was known for his commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The distillery he built was considered revolutionary for its time, with its grand limestone castle-like architecture, beautiful gardens, and state-of-the-art equipment, making it one of the first tourism-focused distilleries in Kentucky.
However, the distillery ceased operations in the mid-20th century and remained dormant for decades, falling into disrepair. It wasn’t until 2014 that Castle & Key Distillery was brought back to life by partners Will Arvin and Wes Murry, who saw potential in restoring the historic site. After several years of meticulous restoration, they reopened the distillery in 2018 under the name Castle & Key, preserving its rich history while infusing it with new energy and innovation. The revival of the distillery has been hailed as a significant event in the bourbon world, not just for its historical importance but also for its role in the craft whiskey renaissance.
Castle & Key focuses on producing high-quality, small-batch spirits, including bourbon, rye whiskey, gin, and vodka. One of the distillery’s unique aspects is its approach to whiskey-making, where it emphasizes craftsmanship and attention to detail in every stage of production. The distillery is known for using traditional copper pot stills, and their whiskey is aged in rickhouses that are carefully designed to ensure optimal aging conditions, with a focus on quality over quantity.
One of the distillery’s flagship products is its Restoration Rye, which marks its return to whiskey production. The rye whiskey is crafted with a balance of spicy rye grains and softer malted barley, resulting in a rich and complex spirit with notes of spice, fruit, and oak. Castle & Key has also begun releasing bourbon, which has been highly anticipated, given the site’s historical connection to bourbon-making and Colonel Taylor’s legacy.
In addition to whiskey, Castle & Key has made a name for itself with its Sacred Spring Vodka and Gin, which have both received acclaim for their refined, botanical flavors. The gin, in particular, is crafted with a mix of 10 botanicals, including locally sourced ingredients, and is known for its bright, floral profile, making it a standout in the growing craft gin market.
The distillery is also notable for its commitment to sustainability and local sourcing. The grains used in their spirits are sourced from local Kentucky farmers, and they employ sustainable farming practices. This focus on community and environmental responsibility aligns with the brand’s mission of not just restoring the distillery but also reinvigorating the surrounding area.
Castle & Key’s beautifully restored grounds have also made it a popular destination for visitors. In addition to offering tours and tastings, the distillery boasts stunning gardens, water features, and architectural beauty that reflect its historical significance. The brand has succeeded in blending history with modern craft spirit production, and its revival has been widely celebrated as a new chapter in Kentucky’s bourbon and whiskey heritage.
In summary, Castle & Key Distillery is a craft distillery rooted in rich history and tradition while embracing modern techniques and innovation. With its meticulous approach to whiskey-making, focus on quality, and restored historical site, Castle & Key has established itself as a key player in the craft spirits industry and a destination for both bourbon enthusiasts and history lovers.
