In a grand culmination of craftsmanship and dedication to the art of whiskey-making, Milam & Greene Whiskey proudly presents the much-anticipated fifth and final release in their illustrious 2023 Wildlife Collection—the White-Tailed Buck Single Barrel Bourbon. This limited-edition, cask-strength masterpiece stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to excellence and the rich tapestry of the Texas Hill Country, where the elements conspire to shape the very essence of this exceptional spirit.
There was an exclusive unveiling on December 13, 2023, at 3:00 p.m. (CST), this extraordinary release is set to captivate enthusiasts, with only 259 bottles available for purchase. The White-Tailed Buck Single Barrel Bourbon is drawn from the depths of cask #518, boasting a formidable 131.2 Proof that proudly marks it as one of the highest-proof expressions from the esteemed Milam & Greene distillery. Priced at $149.99, this limited-edition elixir promises an unrivaled sensory journey, capturing the untamed beauty of the Texas wilderness in each sip.
Named in homage to the iconic White-Tailed Buck, a symbol synonymous with strength and grace in the region, this bourbon pays homage to the resilient wildlife thriving in the challenging Texas Hill Country. The state is home to a thriving population of white-tailed deer, adaptable creatures that seamlessly navigate diverse environments, from dense forests to arid landscapes and even urban areas.
Milam & Greene's CEO and master blender, Heather Greene, a luminary named the 2023 Master Blender of the Year, elucidates on the meticulous approach taken by the distilling team. "This year our distilling team has used our Wildlife Collection of Single Barrel Bourbons as an opportunity to explore the influences of climate on aging whiskey," she notes. The journey involves a comprehensive analysis of whiskey matured in other states before undergoing further aging in Texas, where atmospheric conditions, humidity, temperature fluctuations, and rickhouse positioning are carefully monitored. The result is an exploration of barrel aging that perfectly encapsulates the classic characteristics demanded by discerning whiskey aficionados.
Rikk Munroe, Milam & Greene Whiskey's distillery manager, sheds light on the inspiration behind the White-Tailed Buck Single Barrel Bourbon, stating, "We named our final Wildlife Collection release for the white-tailed deer that is often seen in the Texas Hill Country and frequently grazing on the distillery property." He emphasizes the timely nature of the release, aligning with Texas's deer hunting season from November to January, cautioning drivers to be vigilant during the rut, or deer breeding season.
The White-Tailed Buck Single Barrel Bourbon is an intriguing composition, distilled in Tennessee with a mash bill of 84% corn, 8% rye, and 8% malted barley. Its aging journey began on March 8, 2016, spending six years and eight months in Tennessee before being transported to Texas on November 10, 2022. There, it underwent an additional year and sixteen days of aging on the northside of the Milam & Greene Rickhouse 2 in Blanco, Texas. During this period, the whiskey braved extreme weather conditions, from triple-digit heat to the winter ice storm of February 2023 and drought conditions in one of the driest summers on record.
The dynamic interplay between the whiskey and the barrel, intensified by these extreme conditions, imparts a heightened level of deep and intricate wood nuances and earthy undertones not present in previous releases. The process also contributes to flavor enhancement, drawing out more robust oak notes and viscosity. Elevated temperatures, coupled with high humidity, prompt increased ethanol evaporation, while high temperatures with low humidity lead to more water evaporation, resulting in a proof of 131.2.
The tasting experience of the White-Tailed Buck Single Barrel Bourbon is a sensory delight. With its auburn hue, the bourbon boasts deep aromas of maple candy, cherry cordial, brown sugar, damp earth, oak, and shortbread cookies. The palate is a journey of dark cherry, cornbread muffin, cola, light oak, "Mary Jane" peanut butter taffy, culminating in a velvety, oily viscosity that thoroughly coats the palate. The long, viscous finish reveals hints of menthol, gingerbread, and candy corn—a symphony of flavors that beckon enthusiasts to savor every drop.
As the grand finale of the 2023 Wildlife Collection, the White-Tailed Buck Single Barrel Bourbon is offered at $149.99 exclusively through the Milam & Greene website and in the distillery tasting room. With only 259 bottles available at cask strength, this very limited release is expected to vanish swiftly, echoing the rapid success of its predecessors. Importantly, a portion of the proceeds from each bottle sold will benefit Texas Parks & Wildlife, underscoring Milam & Greene Whiskey's commitment to preserving the natural wonders that inspire their exceptional creations. This final chapter in the 2023 Wildlife Collection encapsulates the essence of Texas's untamed beauty, offering a rare and profound experience for whiskey connoisseurs and nature enthusiasts alike.
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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.
