Milam & Greene Distillery is unveiling the inaugural release of their 2023 Blender's Reserve Collection, starting with Unabridged Volume 2, a testament to the convergence of whiskey expertise and storytelling.
Heather Greene, the CEO of Texas-based Milam & Greene, seamlessly transitioned from whiskey writer to whiskey maker. In November 2022, she bridged these two worlds with "Unabridged," a blended Bourbon created in collaboration with journalists Noah Rothbaum and David Wondrich.
This September, Milam & Greene proudly introduces Unabridged Volume 2, a meticulously crafted blend chosen unanimously by a panel of ten experts. It marks the first of three exceptional whiskeys set to grace the distillery's autumn 2023 Blender's Reserve Collection.
The name "Unabridged" carries a dual significance; it pays homage to Greene's literary past and her passion for storytelling, while also symbolizing that this whiskey has not been edited or diluted in any way.
Unabridged Volume 2 boasts an impressive cask strength of 58.8% ABV, marrying the flavors of 56 barrels with varying ages and origins. Transparency remains central to Greene's whiskey philosophy, as all component parts are thoughtfully listed on the label.
According to Greene, this transparency is a virtue, a means for whiskey enthusiasts to connect with the story behind the spirit. With differences in climate and an unwavering commitment to sourcing the finest barrels and ingredients, knowing the journey of each component becomes integral to the narrative.
The composition of the 56 barrels is as follows: 11 barrels of Tennessee Bourbon aged for 16 years in Texas and Tennessee, 18 barrels of Tennessee Bourbon aged for seven years in Texas and Tennessee, five barrels of Tennessee Bourbon aged for four years in Tennessee, nine barrels of Kentucky Bourbon made with malted rye aged for three years in Kentucky, 11 barrels of Kentucky Bourbon made with malted rye aged for two years in Kentucky, and two barrels of Texas Bourbon made with malted rye aged for two years in Texas.
By collaborating with various producers, utilizing both column and pot stills, and maturing whiskey in diverse states and climates, Greene and her team have a vast palette of flavors at their disposal. The ultimate goal is to carefully select the finest barrels, craft exceptional distillate, and nurture the whiskies over time to create a harmonious and exquisite blend.
Looking ahead, Milam & Greene has more exciting releases in store, including Very Small Batch 2 and the eagerly anticipated final release of Vintage Castle Hill Series Batch 3. Drawing inspiration from famed Scotch blenders, Greene aspires to establish a reputation for high-quality craftsmanship and a unique whiskey experience that resonates with consumers.
"I want to make a whiskey that people want to drink, one with a compelling story, our artisanal touch, a hint of spice, and a flavor profile distinct from other whiskeys," Greene expresses her vision.
Unabridged Volume 2 is available at an RRP of US$95, with 800 cases offered through the Milam & Greene website and select retailers across the United States and Alberta, Canada.
About Milam & Greene Distillery
Milam & Greene Distillery is a distinguished and innovative whiskey producer located in Texas. Led by CEO Heather Greene, who transitioned from a career as a whiskey writer to a whiskey maker, the distillery is known for its commitment to crafting exceptional spirits with a compelling story. Milam & Greene has garnered recognition for its unique approach to whiskey production, seamlessly merging the worlds of expertise and storytelling.
One of the hallmarks of Milam & Greene's whiskey philosophy is transparency. They take great pride in providing detailed information about the components of their blends, offering consumers a deep connection to the journey of their whiskey. This commitment to openness is reflected in their labels, where every component part is thoughtfully listed.
Milam & Greene's dedication to quality is evident in their meticulous selection of barrels, the crafting of exceptional distillate, and the patient nurturing of their whiskies over time. By sourcing from various producers, using different stills, and maturing their whiskey in diverse climates, they have a rich palette of flavors to work with.
The distillery's releases, such as "Unabridged Volume 2," are a testament to their dedication to creating distinctive and memorable whiskey experiences. Milam & Greene aspires to establish a reputation for high-quality craftsmanship and storytelling, with a vision of producing whiskeys that consumers not only enjoy but also connect with on a deeper level. With exciting releases on the horizon, Milam & Greene continues to make its mark in the world of whiskey as a brand that values both tradition and innovation.