Über High West:
High West Distillery was founded in 2006 by David Perkins and his wife Jane. David, a former organic chemist, developed a special passion for the fermentation and distillation process during the course of his work and began pursuing the dream of owning his own distillery in 2001. In 2004, David and his family moved to Park City (near Salt Lake City), began their project, and first distilled High West Whiskey in early 2007.
That makes High West Distillery Utah’s first distillery since 1870. (That’s because the state was known, especially in the 19th century, for its whiskey producers, who were closely associated with the Mormon faith community and Brigham Young. Records show that at least 37 distilleries existed between 1862 and 1869. Since 1870, however, no distillery had been in operation in Utah – until High West!)
Production began with a small 250 gallon (946 liter) pot still facility in a historic barn in downtown Park City. However, demand surprisingly quickly outstripped production volume, so a new 1600-gallon (6056-liter) copper pot still facility was commissioned in 2015 in the small town of Wanship, 20 minutes away. The Park City location is now in operation as a saloon (restaurant and landmark). Just one year after the new distillery was established, “Whiskey Advocate,” America’s leading whiskey magazine, named High West “Distiller of the Year 2016.” Since then, the brand has enjoyed a growing fan base and recognition both nationally and internationally.
Not only the exceptional quality of High West products speak for themselves, but High West is also very committed to the Utah region. 10% of the proceeds from the sale of American Prairie Bourbon are donated to the non-profit organization American Prairie Reserve. This organization is committed to the conservation of the prairie and is working on one of the largest nature reserves in the USA.
High West American Prairie Bourbon
High West American Prairie Bourbon is named after the American Prairie Reserve, a group working to create the largest wildlife refuge in the lower 48 states.
Prairie Bourbon is made up of two parts: First, Straight Bourbon (75% corn, 21% rye, 4% malted barley from MGP Distillery – “Craft Whiskey from Indiana) and second, Straight Bourbon (84% corn, 8% rye, 8% malted barley from non-contracted sources) and is aged 3 to 13 years in fresh American oak barrels.
Tasting Notes:
The nose reveals subtle notes of caramel and a sweet vanilla. Rich and earthy notes follow on the palate complemented by balanced corn, honey nougat and sweet cornbread. The finish is long with a hint of apple strudel and a complex finish.
High West Double Rye:
High West Double Rye is a blend of two differently made rye whiskeys. Double Rye means two straight rye whiskeys with two recipes consisting of 95% rye, 5% malted barley (from MGP Distillery – “Craft Whiskey from Indiana) and 80% rye, 20% malted rye from High West Distillery, the ratio of the whiskeys is top secret. Matured between 3 and 7 years in new white American oak barrels. For maximum flavor intensity, High West does not use cold filtration or carbon treatment.
Tasting Notes:
Double rye also means double flavor. The High West Double Rye convinces with an above-average intense and complex, spicy flavor profile. On the nose, aromas of mint, clove, cinnamon, licorice root and dark chocolate unfold. The palate reveals the typical rye spice at the front, then fresh nuances of mint, eucalyptus, herbal tea with wildflower honey. In the finish, the fresh notes are gradually replaced by a pleasant sweetness with a touch of anise. A great whiskey that fully convinces us with complexity and complexity! Thanks to its spirited taste, the High West Double Rye is suitable for pure enjoyment and stands on its own in classic cocktails such as Manhattan or Old Fashioned.
High West Rendevouz Rye
Rendevous Rye is High West’s luxury rye whiskey. While the majority of all rye whiskeys on the market today are only 51-53% rye, Rendevous Rye honors the traditional way rye whiskey was produced in the past – namely with a high rye content and a full, uncompromising taste! Specifically, Rendevous Rye is made from a blend of two whiskeys: the first 95% rye and 5% malted barley from MGP, and the second 80% rye and 20% malted rye from High West Distillery. The ratio of the two varieties is top secret. The whiskeys are aged for 4 to 7 years in new American white oak barrels. For maximum flavor intensity, High West does not use cold filtration or carbon treatment.
Tasting Notes:
High West Rendevous Rye reveals aromas of clove, vanilla, peppermint, caramelized sugar and dried fruit on the nose. On the palate, the full complexity unfolds with lots of spice, cinnamon, crisp mint, with sweet notes of caramel, vanilla, cocoa, orange peel and candied fruit underneath. The finish lasts incredibly long, as if time stood still – a true flavor explosion!
The Rendevous Rye Whisky should definitely be enjoyed neat, without ice cubes. But also in a classic cocktail like the Old Fashioned, Manhattan or Sazerac, he leaves nothing to be desired.
High West Campfire
High West Campfire is a very unusual, distinctive but at the same time delicious whisk(e)y. The unusual blend of Scotch, bourbon and rye whiskeys is the perfect companion to end the day. The Campfire recipe consists of three components:
First, Straight Rye Whiskeys: 95% rye, 5% malted barley from MGP and 80% rye, 20% malted rye from High West Distillery,
second, Straight Bourbon Whiskey: 75% corn, 21% rye, 4% malted barley from MGP, and third, Blended Malt Scotch Whisky (the source may not be disclosed for contractual reasons). The individual whisk(e)ys are aged between 4 and 8 years in fresh white American oak barrels and ex-Bourbon barrels in the second use (for the Scotch). After the maturation phase, chill filtration is not used. Thus, the Campfire retains its full flavor intensity.
Tasting Notes:
High West Campfire presents a very fruity-spicy aroma, with notes of caramel and butterscotch in a coat of leather and tobacco. The palate develops a full-bodied flavor with flavors of vanilla, toffee, dark berries as well as cinnamon, orange peel, salted caramel and subtle smoke. The finish is incredibly long-lasting with a complex finish.
For further information: https://highwest.com/
