Green River Distilling Co. is making waves in the bourbon industry with the introduction of their new Green River 1885 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This release is crafted to cater specifically to on-premise locations like bars and restaurants, emphasizing its appeal as a staple for classic cocktails.
Image credit: Green River Distilling Co.
A Legacy Revived
Green River Distilling Co. has a storied history, dating back to its founding by J.W. McCulloch in 1885. As Kentucky’s tenth oldest distillery, it was once celebrated for its quality, earning the nickname “the Whiskey Without Regrets.” However, the distillery's operations were halted by Prohibition and a devastating fire in 1918, causing it to fade from the scene for nearly a century. The brand was revitalized in 2016 and purchased by Bardstown Bourbon Company in 2022, leading to a resurgence in both the U.S. and international markets.
The New Release: Green River 1885
Image credit: Green River Distilling Co.
Green River 1885 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey pays homage to its historic roots while presenting a modern offering tailored for today’s cocktail bars. The bourbon is crafted from a mash bill of 76% corn, 15% rye, and 9% malted barley, aged for a minimum of four years. Bottled at 85 proof (42.5% ABV), it is exclusively available in one-liter bottles, making it ideal for bar settings. The suggested retail price is a competitive $21.99.
Flavor Profile and Mixology Potential
Designed with bartenders in mind, Green River 1885 offers a balanced flavor profile that enhances classic cocktails. The bourbon features delicate hints of almond and zesty orange peel on the nose, complemented by warming cinnamon. The palate presents lightly-spiced oak and clove, leading into a clean finish with notes of caramel, vanilla, baking spice, and Honeycrisp apple. This versatile flavor profile makes it a perfect candidate for cocktails like the Old Fashioned and Boulevardier.
Strategic Market Rollout
Green River 1885 will initially be available in nine markets: Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Tennessee, Michigan, Texas, Maryland, Delaware, and the District of Columbia. The brand has plans to expand further, aiming for nationwide distribution in the coming years.
Brand Ambassador’s Insight
Caryn Wells, the National Brand Ambassador for Green River Distilling Co., emphasizes the bourbon’s blend of flavor and value. “Green River 1885 was blended with classic cocktails in mind and is the ideal combination of flavor and value,” Wells stated. “Like all Green River products, we honor our history while presenting bourbons that are relevant to what and how people drink today. It’s awfully easy to say on your next cocktail order, ‘make mine an ’85.’”
Image credit: Green River Distilling Co.
Conclusion
Green River Distilling Co.’s launch of the 1885 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey marks a significant addition to their portfolio. By focusing on the on-premise market and offering a competitively priced, high-quality bourbon, they aim to become a mainstay in cocktail bars across the country. With its rich history and commitment to quality, Green River 1885 is poised to capture the attention of both bartenders and bourbon enthusiasts alike.
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About Green River Distilling Co.
Green River Distilling Co. has a storied history as one of the historic distilleries in the United States, with its roots tracing back to the late 19th century. Established in Owensboro, Kentucky, in 1885, Green River was originally part of a boom in the whiskey industry during that era. The distillery gained recognition for producing high-quality bourbon and was once one of the largest distilleries in the state.
During Prohibition in the 1920s, like many other distilleries, Green River was forced to cease legal whiskey production. However, it continued to operate illicitly, contributing to the shadowy world of bootlegging. The distillery faced challenges and changes in ownership over the years, with various periods of closure and revival.
In recent times, Green River Distilling Co. has undergone a renaissance with a focus on reviving its historic legacy. The distillery has returned to crafting premium bourbon and whiskey, leveraging its historical significance and heritage. The revival includes a commitment to traditional production methods and the use of quality ingredients, reflecting the rich bourbon tradition of Kentucky.
Green River has introduced a range of expressions, showcasing the versatility of its distilling capabilities. While honoring its historical roots, the distillery embraces modern craftsmanship to appeal to contemporary whiskey enthusiasts. The resurgence of Green River Distilling Co. is not only a testament to its enduring legacy but also a nod to the revival of interest in historical whiskey brands that played a vital role in shaping the American whiskey landscape. Visiting the distillery or exploring its product offerings provides a connection to the past while experiencing the craftsmanship and innovation of the present-day Green River.
