Spirits Explained
Bob Book, The Film & Whiskey Podcast
Toast to magical moments
with our collection of holiday favorites.
In a landscape dominated by sweeping plains and rugged mountain ranges, Wyoming Whiskey has carved out a niche for itself, claiming a unique position in the American whiskey scene. The brand asserts that their product is not just made in Wyoming; it's made of Wyoming, a whiskey as bold and untamed as the state from which it hails. From the grain grown under its wide-open skies to the water flowing from its ancient limestone aquifers, every drop of Wyoming Whiskey whispers tales of its homeland.
The Big Horn Basin, a land of harsh winters and scorching summers, provides the perfect canvas for maturing American whiskey. Wyoming Whiskey sources its ingredients from the surrounding land, an effort to encapsulate the state's natural resources in every sip.
The grains, a hearty mix of corn, wheat, and malted barley, are sourced from local farms in Byron, Thermopolis, Kirby, and Riverton, ensuring that each bottle is a testament to the state's agricultural prowess. This commitment to local sourcing is a cornerstone of the brand's identity, contributing to the whiskey's distinct character and positioning it as a craft whiskey genuinely reflective of its Wyoming roots.
Beyond the local ingredients, the soul of Wyoming Whiskey comes alive in its small-batch distillery in Kirby.
Here, a team led by individuals like David Evans, the Lead Distiller with a familial legacy in whiskey making, and Curtis Chopping, the Distillery Operations Manager with a deep understanding of the science behind the spirit, oversee the production.
Their expertise and dedication ensure that the process, from fermentation to aging, adheres to the highest standards of craft distilling.
Wyoming Whiskey's approach to sustainability is woven into its operational fabric. The brand's use of non-GMO grains and ancient aquifer water reflects a broader commitment to eco-friendly practices.
By partnering with nearby farmers and supporting the local economy, the distillery looks to make sure that the spirit of Wyoming continues to thrive. Their efforts not only contribute to biodiversity but strengthen the bond between the land and its people.
Over the last decade, Wyoming Whiskey has journeyed from a fledgling idea dreamt up by Brad and Kate Mead alongside David DeFazio to a brand that has firmly planted its flag as a notable player in the American whiskey scene.
Ten years ago, this entrepreneurial trio, with backgrounds in cattle ranching and law, launched their flagship Small Batch bourbon. They embarked on this venture with the ambitious vision of creating America's next great bourbon and extending the bourbon frontier to the Rocky Mountains.
At the outset, the founders knew they had the raw materials — the pristine land, pure water, and quality grains of Wyoming. What they needed was expertise. They found it in Bourbon Hall of Famer Steve Nally, a master distiller with a deep knowledge and a renowned reputation. Convincing Nally to join their venture was a pivotal moment, setting the stage for the distillery's future successes.
As the industry within the state has matured, so has Wyoming Whiskey, evolving its techniques, expanding its range, and refining its flavors while staying true to its roots. The dedication to quality has not gone unnoticed. As an award-winning American whiskey, Wyoming Whiskey has garnered accolades that underscore its status as a major player of American craft whiskey.
The range of Wyoming Whiskey's products, including the flagship Small Batch Bourbon and the sherry-finished Double Cask, reflects the brand's commitment to diversity in flavor and experience.
However, it's in their special collections where Wyoming Whiskey really pushes the envelope. The annual National Parks Collection takes enthusiasts on a journey through the state's breathtaking national parks, with each edition dedicated to a different aspect of Wyoming's natural beauty.
This year's standout is the National Parks No.3, a robust 105-proof bourbon inspired by the winding Snake River and the majestic Grand Teton National Park. Aged for a minimum of five years, its creation is a labor of love by the talented duo of Nancy Fraley, the renowned "Sniffer," and Nichole Martens, the Lead Blender.
The pinnacle expression in this year’s National Parks release, The Grand collection, meanwhile, showcases the artistry of aging with three unique single barrel high-rye bourbons, each aged ten years. These bottles represent the best of Wyoming Whiskey's craft, offering an unparalleled tasting experience among the brand’s portfolio. Less than 400 bottles of The Grand were available for purchase in select US markets.
Wyoming Whiskey's commitment goes beyond crafting fine spirits. With the release of this year's National Parks No.3 and The Grand collection, the distillery pledged a $150,000 donation to the Grand Teton National Park Foundation, underscoring their dedication not just to whiskey, but to preserving the natural splendor that inspires every bottle they produce.
Other releases in the annual National Parks Series have supported organizations like Yellowstone Forever, a nonprofit working to preserve the majesty of Yellowstone National Park and the National Park Foundation, the official nonprofit partner of the National Park Service. These collaborations, fueled by sales from the National Parks series, contribute to maintaining America's natural treasures for future generations.
As the whiskey market evolves, Wyoming Whiskey shows no signs of slowing down. The brand plans to expand its sustainable practices and continue its innovation streak while offering its core lineup in an increasing number of locations around the world.
Whether you're local to Wyoming or across the country, it’s become easier to get your hands on Wyoming Whiskey. From local stores to online platforms like ReserveBar, a taste of Wyoming is always nearby.
For collectors and enthusiasts, Wyoming Whiskey presents an intriguing option in a crowded market. Each bottle, with its unique flavor profile and story, is a collectible piece of Wyoming's spirit. And with offerings like The Grand and National Parks No. 3, collectors are not just buying a whiskey; they're actively working to preserve America’s cultural heritage.
Wyoming Whiskey presents a story of local pride, quality craftsmanship, and a commitment to the indomitable spirit of Wyoming. Consumers can appreciate Wyoming’s commitment to charity and innovation, as the brand seeks to continue reflecting a way to experience the soul of the West. The entirety of their production process, from grain to glass, is infused with the essence of the state. Through their first decade-plus of operation, they are well on their way to achieving this lofty goal.