About Distillery 291
Distillery 291: The Independent Award-Winning Whiskey and Bourbon Maker
Distillery 291 is a Colorado-based distillery that has been making waves in the whiskey and bourbon industry since its inception. Founded by Michael Myers, Distillery 291 is known for its rugged, refined, and rebellious approach to crafting premium spirits. With a focus on quality ingredients, traditional techniques, and innovative processes, Distillery 291 has become a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts worldwide.
The History of Distillery 291
Distillery 291 was founded in Colorado Springs in 2011 by Michael Myers. A former photojournalist turned distiller, Myers had always been fascinated with the art of distilling. He spent years researching and experimenting with different techniques before finally opening his own distillery.
The name "Distillery 291" comes from the address of the original location where Myers started his business - at the foot of Pikes Peak on Highway 24. Today, Distillery 291 has moved to a larger facility in Colorado Springs but still maintains its commitment to using local ingredients and traditional methods.
The Process
At Distillery 291, every batch of whiskey or bourbon is made by hand using only the finest ingredients. The process begins with locally sourced grains that are milled on-site before being combined with water from nearby springs.
Once mixed together into what's called "mash," it's then fermented for several days until it reaches an alcohol content of around eight percent. From there it's distilled twice through copper pot stills before being aged in charred oak barrels for anywhere from six months to three years depending on the product.
What sets Distillery 291 apart from other distilleries is their unique aging process which involves exposing their barrels to extreme temperature changes - something they call "Colorado-style maturation." This technique allows their spirits to absorb more flavor from the wood while also accelerating aging time resulting in a smoother, more complex flavor profile.
The Products
Distillery 291 offers a range of award-winning whiskeys and bourbons that are sure to please even the most discerning palate. Their flagship product is their Colorado Rye Whiskey, which has won numerous awards including "Best American Rye Whiskey" at the World Whiskies Awards in 2018.
Other popular products include their Bad Guy Bourbon, a smooth and spicy bourbon with notes of vanilla and caramel, and their Single Barrel Colorado Bourbon, which is aged for three years in charred oak barrels before being bottled at cask strength.
In addition to their core products, Distillery 291 also offers limited edition releases throughout the year. These special releases often feature unique blends or aging techniques that are not available in their regular lineup.
The Experience
Visiting Distillery 291 is an experience like no other. The distillery's tasting room is located in a historic building that was once home to an old elementary school. Today it's been transformed into a cozy space where visitors can sample some of the distillery's finest spirits while learning about the history and process behind each one.
Tours are available by appointment only and offer visitors a chance to see firsthand how each batch of whiskey or bourbon is made. Guests can also purchase bottles of their favorite spirits on-site or join one of Distillery 291's exclusive whiskey clubs for access to limited edition releases throughout the year.
Conclusion
Distillery 291 has quickly become one of the most respected names in the whiskey and bourbon industry thanks to its commitment to quality ingredients, traditional techniques, and innovative processes. With its rugged yet refined approach to crafting premium spirits, it's no wonder why so many people have fallen in love with Distillery 291's award-winning whiskeys and bourbons. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey enthusiast or just looking for something new to try, be sure to add Distillery 291 to your list of must-visit distilleries.