Mike Safai, known for his innovation in both brewing and distilling, has officially launched the first release of Safai Kentucky Straight Bourbon. This marks the debut of what is expected to be a line of distinct and exceptional whiskeys, all crafted with Safai’s signature blend of curiosity and dedication to flavor exploration. With years of experience and a reputation for pushing boundaries, Safai is bringing a new and exciting whiskey to the market, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts alike.
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A Passion for Flavor Innovation
Mike Safai, a co-founder of Rabbit Hole Distillery, is no stranger to the world of spirits. His deep passion for brewing and distilling shines through in his latest venture. Safai’s approach to bourbon is not just about following traditional methods but about experimenting and rethinking every step of the process. As someone with an extraordinary sensory ability, often described as a "super taster," Safai has always been driven by a quest to uncover new flavors and refine existing ones.
"I have always looked for new and innovative ways to consider flavors," Safai shared in a press release. His curiosity has led him to experiment with everything from coffee roasting to beer brewing, each time finding new ways to unlock flavors that were previously undiscovered. This same philosophy extends to his bourbon-making process, where he alters the cooking process of the mash and even tweaks the char of the barrel to change the chemical makeup of the whiskey, resulting in unique and unexpected flavor profiles.
The Journey of Safai Bourbon
The first release from Safai Bourbon, a Kentucky Straight Bourbon, was distilled at New Riff Distillery in Newport, Kentucky. After entering the barrels at 110 proof, the bourbon aged for six years at New Riff before being moved to Left Bank Spirits in Louisville for an additional two years of aging. During this time, the whiskey’s proof increased to 122, and it was eventually bottled at 112 proof, creating a rich, high-proof bourbon for those who appreciate robust flavors.
Safai’s whiskey is currently available for $300, and it is sold both through select retailers and online at SafaiBourbon.com. Each release from Safai Bourbon will be a limited-edition offering, designed to be a "once-in-a-lifetime" opportunity for collectors and fans of premium bourbon. Those who follow the brand closely will even have early access to future releases, making it an appealing brand for whiskey aficionados.
A Unique Mashbill with a Surprising Origin
What sets this bourbon apart from many others on the market is the mashbill, which was originally intended to be a wheat beer. Safai’s creative thinking led him to experiment with honey-roasted malt, a decision that has clearly paid off. He believed this unusual ingredient would bring out interesting and complex flavor characteristics in the bourbon, and after eight years of aging and perfecting the recipe, Safai Bourbon is now ready for the whiskey world to experience.
This kind of experimentation is nothing new for Safai. His history as a co-founder of Rabbit Hole Distillery has shown that he is always willing to take risks and challenge the status quo in pursuit of new and better whiskey-making methods. In fact, it was this same approach that helped him create some of the industry's most groundbreaking bourbon recipes during his time at Rabbit Hole. Now, on his own, he continues to push the boundaries of what bourbon can be, crafting a spirit that is truly unique.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship
Mike Safai’s journey into the world of bourbon began long before the release of Safai Bourbon. After co-founding Rabbit Hole Distillery, he eventually moved on to focus on his other passion: coffee. He founded Safai Coffee and used his keen palate to build a successful coffee business, all the while keeping a small collection of American Whiskey barrels. These barrels represent a mix of standard and experimental mash bills, which Safai continues to develop into world-class whiskeys.
This dual expertise in both coffee and whiskey speaks to Safai’s broader entrepreneurial spirit. In addition to his ventures in coffee and whiskey, he is also a co-founder of the Logan Street Market in Louisville, Kentucky, further cementing his place as a key figure in the city’s thriving food and beverage scene.
A Whiskey for Collectors
Safai Bourbon isn’t just a whiskey for casual drinkers; it’s designed for collectors and connoisseurs. The fact that each release is crafted in small batches and represents a unique expression makes it particularly appealing to those who seek out rare and special whiskeys. With a price point of $300, it’s clear that this is a premium product, aimed at a discerning audience who appreciate the artistry and innovation that goes into every bottle.
Each bottle of Safai Bourbon is more than just a drink; it’s a marker of distinction. Whiskey enthusiasts who manage to get their hands on a bottle are not only experiencing a world-class bourbon, but they are also owning a piece of Mike Safai’s legacy — a legacy built on curiosity, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to flavor.
The Future of Safai Bourbon
The debut of Safai Kentucky Straight Bourbon is just the beginning. Safai has hinted that there will be many more whiskey expressions to come, each one building on the lessons learned and innovations developed through years of experimentation. For those who are passionate about bourbon and appreciate the artistry behind it, Safai Bourbon is a brand to watch closely.
In the ever-evolving world of whiskey, Safai is a name that stands out. His willingness to challenge traditional methods and constantly seek new ways to enhance the flavor of his spirits sets him apart from other distillers. As the whiskey world eagerly awaits future releases from Safai Bourbon, one thing is clear: Mike Safai’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what bourbon can be will continue to shape the industry for years to come.
For collectors and whiskey lovers alike, Safai Bourbon represents the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, making it a must-have addition to any whiskey collection.