Venturing into the realm of whiskey connoisseurship, Milam & Greene Whiskey announces the much-anticipated arrival of the Mockingbird Single Barrel Bourbon, the jewel in the crown of its 2024 Wildlife Collection. This exclusive, cask-strength elixir is a testament to both craftsmanship and conservation, encapsulating the rich tapestry of Texas's natural heritage while tantalizing the palate with its intricate flavor profile.
The genesis of Mockingbird Single Barrel Bourbon lies in the rugged terrain of the Texas Hill Country, where extreme weather shapes the destiny of aging bourbon and kindles awareness for Texas Parks and Wildlife causes. As the second installment in the Wildlife series, Mockingbird pays homage to the diverse avian wonders that grace the Texan skies, with its namesake derived from the state bird, the Northern Mockingbird. Renowned for its resplendent plumage and unparalleled mimicry, the Northern Mockingbird embodies the essence of the Lone Star State's untamed spirit.
Heather Greene, the visionary CEO of Milam & Greene Whiskey and acclaimed Master Blender, orchestrates a symphony of flavors, harnessing the alchemy of climate and craftsmanship to curate an unparalleled sensory experience. Drawing inspiration from the rugged landscapes and tempestuous weather patterns of Texas, each barrel of Mockingbird Single Barrel Bourbon undergoes a transformative journey, culminating in a crescendo of taste and texture that reflects the essence of its terroir.
The meticulous selection process begins with the handpicking of exceptional whiskey barrels, followed by a judicious analysis of how climatic nuances influence the maturation process. Heather Greene elucidates, "We are looking for differentiating factors that are harnessed by climate, barrel fill, and age that happen when whiskey is matured in various locations. Whiskey aged 100 percent in Texas usually tends to be richer and darker."
Indeed, Mockingbird Single Barrel Bourbon embodies this ethos of exploration and experimentation, marrying the robust flavors of Tennessee-distilled bourbon with the distinctive character imparted by the harsh environs of Texas. Aged for six years and seven months in the heart of Tennessee, the bourbon then embarks on a pilgrimage to the Milam & Greene rickhouses, where it braves the elements for an additional year and four months, enduring droughts and rare ice storms with stoic resilience.
From cask #519 emerges a mere 173 bottles of this liquid gold, bottled at a formidable 128.21 proof or 64.1% alcohol by volume. The burnished amber hue beckons, heralding a sensory voyage that begins with tantalizing aromas of glazed donuts, brown sugar, and dark berries, interwoven with hints of tobacco and old leather. On the palate, Mockingbird unfolds like a symphony, with notes of cherry cola, toffee, and sweet cornbread dancing across the senses, culminating in a long, dry finish redolent with caramel and cola.
Rikk Munroe, the indomitable Distillery Manager at Milam & Greene Whiskey, shares his encounters with the avian denizens that inspired Mockingbird Single Barrel Bourbon. "Mockingbirds frequent the distillery year-round," he reveals, "They can be seen chasing other birds off and are sort of the bullies of the bird world out here on the property."
Priced at $149.99, Mockingbird Single Barrel Bourbon is a coveted treasure, available exclusively on the Milam & Greene website and in the distillery tasting room. With a portion of the proceeds dedicated to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation, each sip of Mockingbird Single Barrel Bourbon becomes a gesture of conservation, preserving the splendor of Texas's natural heritage for generations to come. As aficionados clamor to secure their share of this limited release, the legacy of Mockingbird Single Barrel Bourbon continues to soar, a testament to the enduring allure of Texan craftsmanship and the timeless majesty of the avian kingdom.
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About Milam & Greene
Milam & Greene is a whiskey brand that was founded in Blanco, Texas, USA. It is known for producing a range of high-quality, handcrafted whiskies. The brand places a strong emphasis on the artistry and craftsmanship of whiskey making, aiming to create unique and flavorful expressions.
Milam & Greene takes its name from the partnership between Marsha Milam, a prominent Texas businesswoman, and master distiller Heather Greene. Heather Greene is well-respected in the whiskey industry for her expertise and passion for the craft. Together, they have sought to create a brand that combines tradition with innovation, drawing on the rich heritage of whiskey production while introducing their own distinct approach.
The company is committed to using high-quality ingredients and employing traditional distillation methods to ensure the creation of premium spirits. Milam & Greene's portfolio typically includes a variety of whiskey expressions, each with its own character and flavor profile. The brand may offer bourbon, rye, or other whiskey styles, often incorporating a blend of aged spirits to achieve a well-balanced and nuanced final product.
In addition to its commitment to producing exceptional whiskey, Milam & Greene is likely to prioritize transparency about its production processes and the sourcing of ingredients. Transparency is increasingly valued in the whiskey industry, and consumers often appreciate knowing the details about the origins and craftsmanship behind the spirits they enjoy.
