Chattanooga Whiskey continues its journey of innovation with the release of Experimental Batch 040: Bourbon Barreled Citracello, a citrus-inspired, bourbon-based liqueur that brings the fresh vibrancy of grapefruit, orange, and hibiscus to the forefront. Known for its unique Experimental Series, Chattanooga Whiskey builds on the success of its previous Bourbon Barreled Limoncello, taking citrus infusion to new levels while exploring a different aspect of fruity, floral flavors. This seasonal creation, perfect for the citrus harvest period, offers enthusiasts and newcomers alike a chance to experience the Tennessee distillery’s creativity in crafting unique, small-batch spirits.
Image credit: Chattanooga Whiskey
A Fresh Take on Citrus with Experimental Batch 040
The Experimental Batch 040 follows Chattanooga Whiskey’s signature approach: blending tradition with unexpected ingredients to produce one-of-a-kind creations. This liqueur is made with a base of the brand’s "Barrel 91" mash bill, a Tennessee High Malt recipe known for its distinct flavors. The mash bill for Batch 040 features yellow corn, malted rye, caramel malted barley, and honey malted barley, which together give the spirit a rich, malty base. For this release, Chattanooga Whiskey infused the spirit with over 125 pounds of citrus peel and hibiscus, allowing the flavors to meld in a lengthy, three-week infusion.
Crafting the Citracello: Real Ingredients and Pure Flavor
Chattanooga Whiskey's focus on quality and purity is evident in Batch 040, which uses only natural ingredients without artificial additives. The infusion process incorporated grapefruit peel, orange peel, blood orange peel, and hibiscus, creating a complex, layered profile that balances fruit and floral notes. By aging the liqueur in single-use bourbon barrels for three months, Chattanooga Whiskey enriched the flavor profile, adding depth from the wood and residual bourbon notes, which complement the citrus infusion.
The aging took place in 53-gallon barrels, allowing the spirit to mellow and develop a harmonious blend of bright citrus and soft, oaky undertones. This extended barrel-aging period imbues the Citracello with bourbon’s familiar warmth, balancing the fruit-forward profile with a subtle, smooth finish. The result is an 81-proof liqueur (40.5% alcohol by volume) with rich, vibrant tasting notes designed to be enjoyed in a range of ways.
Tasting Notes and Recommendations
Experimental Batch 040 stands out for its lively flavor profile, capturing the taste of orange sherbet, sugar-dusted grapefruit, gum drops, and hibiscus tea. With a sweetness that appeals to those who enjoy fruit-forward spirits, it offers a refreshing, slightly floral experience that also carries a bit of the warmth from the bourbon barrels. The layered notes of citrus and hibiscus add a touch of elegance, while the underlying malt foundation adds balance and smoothness.
Chattanooga Whiskey crafted Batch 040 with versatility in mind. This Citracello can be enjoyed on its own, served neat, chilled, or over ice. The distillery encourages fans to explore its possibilities in cocktails, either paired with whiskey for a bold twist or used as a unique citrus ingredient in a range of mixed drinks. With its fruit-forward profile, it’s a refreshing addition to creative cocktails or even a simple spritz with soda for a lighter, casual drink.
Limited Availability and Where to Find It
Like all releases in the Experimental Series, Batch 040: Bourbon Barreled Citracello is a limited-edition offering, making it a sought-after item for fans of unique spirits. It was officially released at the Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery on October 24, priced at $44.99 per bottle. For those unable to visit the distillery in person, limited quantities will also be available on Seelbachs.com in the coming weeks, allowing enthusiasts nationwide to secure a bottle of this distinctive citrus liqueur.
The Experimental Series Legacy
Chattanooga Whiskey’s Experimental Series has become a platform for the brand to push boundaries, exploring new flavors and techniques that keep fans coming back for more. Each batch in the series is unique, with previous releases showcasing everything from smoked finishes to innovative fruit infusions. While the Bourbon Barreled Limoncello captured the brightness of lemon, the Citracello offers a broader citrus spectrum, appealing to those who love the tang of grapefruit balanced with orange and floral notes. This commitment to experimentation has positioned Chattanooga Whiskey as a creative leader in the spirits industry, especially for those looking to try something beyond traditional bourbon profiles.
A Flavorful Toast to Citrus Season
For Chattanooga Whiskey, Batch 040: Bourbon Barreled Citracello is a celebration of citrus season and a continuation of its mission to craft bold, innovative spirits. With a focus on quality ingredients, small-batch production, and a unique approach to barrel aging, the Citracello is more than just a seasonal release; it’s a testament to the creativity and dedication of Chattanooga Whiskey's team. Whether enjoyed on its own or mixed into cocktails, this citrus-infused liqueur offers a unique taste experience that reflects the brand's adventurous spirit and commitment to quality.
For anyone eager to explore a new side of bourbon or add a fresh, citrusy twist to their collection, Batch 040: Bourbon Barreled Citracello promises an exciting, flavorful journey. From its limited availability to its intriguing flavor profile, this Citracello is sure to be a favorite among fans of both citrus liqueurs and experimental whiskey alike.
About Chattanooga
Chattanooga Whiskey is a relatively new player in the American whiskey scene but has quickly gained attention for its dedication to craftsmanship and innovation. Founded in 2011 by a group of friends with a passion for whiskey and a desire to revive the distilling tradition in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the distillery has since become a prominent name in the industry.
Chattanooga Whiskey is committed to producing high-quality, handcrafted whiskies that reflect the rich history and heritage of Tennessee whiskey-making. The distillery's flagship expression, Chattanooga Whiskey 91, is a straight bourbon whiskey crafted with a mash bill of yellow corn, malted rye, and caramel malted barley. This bourbon is aged in charred oak barrels, resulting in a smooth and flavorful whiskey with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice.
In addition to its core range of whiskies, Chattanooga Whiskey offers a variety of limited-edition releases and experimental batches, showcasing the distillery's creativity and willingness to push the boundaries of traditional whiskey-making. These expressions often feature unique cask finishes, innovative aging techniques, or collaborations with other producers, providing whiskey enthusiasts with new and exciting flavors to explore.
Chattanooga Whiskey is also known for its commitment to sustainability and community involvement. The distillery sources local ingredients whenever possible and implements environmentally friendly practices in its production process. Additionally, Chattanooga Whiskey is actively involved in supporting local charities and initiatives, giving back to the community that has embraced and supported its growth.
With its dedication to quality, innovation, and community engagement, Chattanooga Whiskey has earned a loyal following among whiskey enthusiasts and collectors. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails, Chattanooga Whiskey offers a taste of Tennessee's rich whiskey heritage and a memorable drinking experience for whiskey lovers everywhere.