by admin | Jun 17, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
With Deep Respect for Tequila’s Traditions, Chef John des Rosiers Aims to Make Tequila Better with the U.S. Launch of His New Blanco and Reposado Tequilas
Chicago, IL (Jun 17, 2024) – Cambio Tequila, a new brand which explores the possibilities of barrel finishing respective to flavor and character more than any other tequila, today officially launched in the U.S., with its inaugural Blanco and Reposado expressions.
Founder and CEO Chef John des Rosiers, a 30-year veteran of the world’s finest kitchens and bars, believed that there was a missed opportunity in the tequila category. A classically trained Chef, John began working at some of the Midwest’s best restaurants – before opening several of his own unique concepts – and was fortunate to be part of a team that built and managed a 1,500-bottle wine list, which drove his interest in all types of spirits along with a desire to create a tequila brand. John’s Somm’s palate combined with his natural creativity allowed him to bring a completely different viewpoint to the spirit and how it’s aged in unique finishing barrels. With the belief that tequila is the only spirit in the world that retains a sense of place (terroir) through its entire process, he created Cambio with deep respect for tequila’s traditions, while finding opportunities to improve the spirit that honors the older heritage of slow, handmade craftsmanship.
“Cambio, meaning change is what drives us—the relentless pursuit to improve, build and evolve,” said Chef des Rosiers. “Our tequila is the culmination of this dedication and a rejection of ‘good’ enough’ and ‘that’s how it has always been done’. Every choice we made with Cambio was designed show the true potential of the spirit.”
The Process & Distillery
Tequila Cambio uses a 10-step process called “Método Refinado,” or refined method, which starts with hand selecting 100% Blue Weber Agave directly from farms in the high elevation Highlands of Jalisco. The piñas are then cooked whole in stone ovens using a “slow and low” technique which brings forth maximum quality and flavor. Next, a traditional tahona wheel is used to gently squeeze the agave juice from the plant by hand. During fermentation, the team uses extremely low temperatures and yeast more commonly used in wine, to bring out greater floral and aromatic agave notes before the liquid is double distilled in copper pot stills. During aging, a variety of premium unexpected barrel types are used to finish the tequila, adding unprecedented complexity and nuance to the liquid. No other brand shares this level of commitment to exploring the unique qualities barrel-finishing can bring to tequila. Throughout every step of the production process, the team uses sustainable practices. Cambio Tequila has also been confirmed additive-free, a certification which must be renewed annually by Tequila Matchmaker.
Cambio partnered with ZB Distillery (NOM 1605) to deliver exceptional quality and attention to detail. After a comprehensive search, only Distillery Empresa Ejidal Tequilers de Amatitá was eager to explore Cambio’s innovative distilling techniques and longer production times.
They also committed to the unprecedented practice of exploring secondary barrel finishes for each of Cambio’s products and provided a separate building designed for a 100% natural artisanal process. ZB has been instrumental in allowing Cambio to modify their distillery, and experiment, test, and verify results with their modern laboratory.
The Tequila
- Cambio Tequila Blanco is made with a higher set of standards, going beyond traditional expectations every step of the way. First, whole Blue Weber Agave piñas are roasted slow and low for superior flavors, then the rich juice is extracted from the pulp using only a traditional Tahona stone wheel. The fermentation process utilizes extremely low temperatures and wine yeasts that yield a wider variety of nuances, and the fermentation tanks are carefully lined with American white oak and Mexican pine and temperature controlled—a step few others have ever even considered. The slower distillation allows for more nuance and control over the spirit’s flavor. Finally, the tequila spends time in used French oak wine barrels, giving the finished spirit a level of complexity and character unlike any other Blanco. No other tequila benefits from this singular attention to every detail, a result which tequila lovers will savor with every sip.
- Tasting Notes: Fruity and rich with notes of butterscotch, honey-roasted agave, orange peel, guava, and peach with a slight mineral undertone. Soft and pleasant on the palate with a clean, lingering finish—even at 92 proof (46% ABV).
- Cambio Tequila Reposado is aged for one month in Burgundy and Bordeaux barrels, and then for an additional five months in French oak Chardonnay casks. This extended barrel aging and use of multiple casks gives the tequila distinct warm caramel notes, with a pleasant hint of spice from the Chardonnay casks. This variation of barrel finishing is unprecedented in the world of tequila, elevating the expression beyond what’s expected and raising the bar for all other Reposados. With a commitment to non-traditional yeasts and longer cooking, fermenting, and distilling practices, Cambio is unlike any other Reposado available today. The company’s goal isn’t to make more tequila, just to make it better.
- Tasting notes: Mellow and rich with notes of warm caramel and spice, as well as honey-roasted agave, orange peel, guava, and a pleasant mineral undertone. Sumptuous on the palate with a pleasingly rich and lingering finish. 92 proof (46% ABV).
Availability
Cambio Blanco and Reposado Tequilas are sold online and in select on- and off-premise retail locations in California, Florida, Illinois, New York, and Texas for the suggested retail price of $49.99 and $59.99, respectively. For more information, please visit www.cambiotequila.com. Please follow Cambio Tequila on Facebook, Instagram and twitter.
About Cambio Tequila
Cambio means change, and it’s what drives this tequila—the relentless pursuit to improve, build and evolve. Founded by classically trained Chef and Sommelier John des Rosiers, Cambio is a distillation of classic tequila tradition filtered through the culinary science and restless craftsmanship of a 30-year veteran’s experience in the world’s finest kitchens and bars. Cambio deeply respects tequila’s traditions while finding opportunities for improvement that honor the older heritage of slow, hand-made craftsmanship. More than any other tequila, Cambio relentlessly pursues the possibilities of what barrel-finishing can bring to a spirit’s flavor and character. There is always a better way, regardless of the extra work, cost, or time, and Cambio constantly strives for perfection from their tequila—because that’s the change you deserve.
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by admin | Jun 12, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Celebration of All Things Cherry Kicks Off Release of Distiller’s Award-Winning Barrel Proof Cherry Whiskey and Special Nine-Year Heritage Edition
Traverse City, MI (Jun 12, 2023) – Traverse City Whiskey Co. (TCWC), a true small batch distillery handcrafting a portfolio of premium whiskies and bourbons in Up North Michigan, will kick off its fifth annual Cherry Whiskey Fest on Saturday, July 13 from 12-4pm at the TCWC Stillhouse (201 E. 14th Street) in Traverse City. Tickets are available for purchase online at www.cherrywhiskeyfest.com for $30 or $35 at the door and include: (1) 0.5oz sample of Barrel Proof Cherry, (1) specialty Glencairn glass, (1) Barrel Proof Cherry cocktail and (1) entry into the raffle for a VIP Experience, among other great prizes, live music, and yard games. Delectable food offerings from local food trucks and additional specialty cocktails will also be available for purchase.
As part of the event, TCWC will release its highly coveted Barrel Proof Cherry Whiskey – a limited-release, high proof version of its classic American Cherry Edition – the best-selling craft spirit in the state of Michigan. TCWC’s Barrel Proof Cherry Whiskey uses the same mash bill (75% corn, 21% rye and 4% malt barley) with an enhanced recipe. The process begins with hand-selecting six-year-old bourbon barrels that present a slightly sweeter profile. After blending the barrels together at full cask strength, the team then infuses more than 300 pounds of Montmorency sour cherries harvested in Leelanau County, for seven days.
Additionally, for the first time ever, TCWC will introduce a special Heritage Edition, a nine-year-aged single barrel cherry whiskey which is exclusive to the Cherry Whiskey Fest. This unique offering features two single barrels, each aged for nine years, and then infused with fresh, local cherries. The limited-edition expression boasts an unparalleled depth and complexity, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship and vibrant cherry notes that define the whiskey.
“Every year, we pay homage to our heritage by releasing our Barrel Proof Cherry Whiskey at the signature event of the summer,” said Chris Fredrickson, Co-founder, TCWC. “This year, we’re elevating our tradition with not one, but two exceptional releases. These whiskeys capture the essence of Northern Michigan in every sip. Don’t miss your chance to savor the finest flavors Northern Michigan has to offer.”
Whiskey lovers can purchase a 750ml bottle of Barrel Proof Cherry at The Stillhouse in Traverse City for $89.99. The nine-year Heritage Edition can only be purchased at Cherry Whiskey Fest for the same price.
TCWC draws upon its early family roots in the distilled spirits industry dating back to the late 1800s, sourcing their grains from the Midwest. The distilling team, led by Chris Fredrickson, strives to make quality products, inspired by patented distilling techniques invented by Fredrickson’s great grandfather that were approved by the US PTO during the prohibition era.
For more information, please visit www.tcwhiskey.com and follow the brand on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @tcwhiskey
About Traverse City Whiskey Co.
Traverse City Whiskey Co. is a family-owned distilled spirits company that is known for crafting premium whiskeys that are unmistakably Up North. The harsh winters and hot summers of Traverse City, Michigan, produce exceptional whiskeys forged by the elements. Up North whiskey is said to be both strong and delicate, like a lumberjack with an understanding gaze. TCWC’s early family roots are in the distilled spirits industry dating back to the late 1800’s, sourcing all grains from the Midwest.
Traverse City Whiskey Co. is a proud member of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS).
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by admin | Jun 11, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Traverse City, MI (June 11, 2024) – Traverse City Whiskey Co. (TCWC), a portfolio of premium whiskeys and bourbon made in Michigan, has launched two ready-to-serve Old Fashioned Cocktails in a portable bottle: The Original (37% ABV) and Cherry (27% ABV). The Original features the company’s premium, award-winning six-year-old bourbon whiskey, while the Cherry’s base spirit is American Cherry Edition, the company’s bestselling whiskey. Both expressions contain homemade simple syrup and bitters, and citrus expression.
The new ready-to-serve Old Fashioned Cocktails, which are available in 375ml bottles and provide eight delicious cocktails (pours), are meant to be chilled and served neat or over ice and garnished with a TCWC Premium Cocktail Cherry (product sold separately). The suggested retail price for The Original and Cherry, which may vary by market, is $29.99 and $19.99, respectively.
“An Old Fashioned is one of the original classic bourbon cocktails,” said Chris Fredrickson, Co-founder, Traverse City Whiskey Co. “Our delicious and convenient ready-to-serve Old Fashioned cocktails are hand crafted and ready to pour. They’re a welcomed addition to our portfolio of whiskey offerings.”
Known as the “Whiskey of the North,” TCWC draws upon its early family roots in the distilled spirits industry dating back to the late 1800’s, sourcing all its grains (corn, rye, and malted barley) from the Midwest. Led by Chris Fredrickson, the distilling team strives to make quality products, inspired by patented distilling techniques invented by Fredrickson’s great grandfather that were approved by the US PTO during the prohibition era.
Traverse City Whiskey Co’s new ready-to-serve premium Old Fashioned Cocktails are available online at tcwhiskey.com, the Stillhouse (Traverse City) and Outpost (Ferndale) and beginning to roll out in the following U.S. markets: AK, AZ, CA, CO, CT, DE, FL, GA, ID, IL, IN, IA, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MS, MT, NE, NV, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TX, TX, UT, WA, WI, and Washington DC.
For more information, please visit tcwhiskey.com and follow the brand on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @tcwhiskey
About Traverse City Whiskey Co.
Traverse City Whiskey Co. is an independent and locally owned distilled spirits company based in Traverse City, Michigan, that’s dedicated to producing approachable premium to super-premium whiskey and bourbon. Known as “The Whiskey of the North,” the upstart company draws upon its early family roots in the distilled spirits industry dating back to the late 1800’s, sourcing all grains from the Midwest.
Traverse City Whiskey Co. is a proud member of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS).
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by admin | May 29, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Newest Bourbon Blend Features Newly Redesigned Bottle Label
Louisville, KY (May 29, 2024) – Barrell Craft Spirits® (BCS), the original independent blender of unique aged, cask strength whiskey since 2013, today introduced Barrell Bourbon Batch 036. For this new expression, the BCS blending team created a multi-mash bill blend of Indiana (7.5, 8 & 10-year), Kentucky, (9-year) and Tennessee (8 & 15-year) bourbon whiskeys. The final blend features a derived mash bill of corn, (79%) rye, (16%) and malted barley (5%) and was bottled at cask strength (114.44 proof) in Kentucky.
For the first time, BCS’ latest bourbon batch features a newly redesigned bottle label. Changes to the front label include disclosing the state(s) from which the whiskey was sourced and listing the age of every whiskey used in the blend. The back label now includes a derived mash bill of the final blend. Finally, the front label more prominently features the bourbon batch number, making it easier to identify on the shelf.
“Since our founding, we’ve intentionally sold our whiskey as transparently as possible,” said BCS Founder Joe Beatrice. “Our new batch label which debuts on Barrell Bourbon Batch 036 goes one step further toward giving whiskey lovers the blending and mash bill information they crave about what’s in their glass in a more convenient format that’s easy to find.”
The new expression is now available online via the BCS website at barrellbourbon.com and in select retailers for the suggested retail price of $89.99 per 750ml bottle.
Founded in 2013 in Louisville, Kentucky, BCS selects and blends products that explore different distillation methods, barrels, and aging environments. BCS’s extensive stocks of high-quality casks mean it can craft extraordinary blends that maximize the nuances of each ingredient. Creative finishes and a liberated approach to blending guides every product release.
The award-winning line of BCS releases are sold in 49 US states, Australia, Canada, South Korea, and the UK. Follow Barrell Craft Spirits on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube, or visit barrellbourbon.com.
Barrell Craft Spirits®
Louisville-based Barrell Craft Spirits® is the original, pre-eminent independent blender of unique, aged, cask strength whiskey and rum. Recognized for our blending expertise since 2013, we skillfully design, produce, and launch leading, unique products that surprise
and delight whiskey aficionados and novices alike. Our cask-strength small-batch and single-barrel releases have quickly become an influencing force in American whiskey, winning awards from the world’s most prestigious distilled spirits publications and competitions.
Barrell Craft Spirits®, Barrell®, Barrell Bourbon® and Barrell Rye® are registered trademarks owned by Barrell Craft Spirits LLC.
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by admin | May 16, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
UOT Named First Official Importer in Asia for the Award-Winning Blender of Unique, Aged, Cask Strength Whiskey Since 2013
Louisville, KY (May 16, 2024) – Barrell Craft Spirits® (BCS) today announced that it has officially launched its award-winning spirits portfolio in South Korea. The original independent blender known for its unique, aged, cask strength whiskey, has selected UOT as its brand-building distribution partner for both on- and off-trade.
“We’re excited to launch the brand in our first Asian market in partnership with UOT, which is renowned for its meticulous attention to luxury brands,” said BCS Founder Joe Beatrice. “Over the past several years, whiskey consumption in South Korea has outpaced the rest of the world.”
“As discerning Korean consumers continue to explore and embrace diverse whiskey categories, including American whiskey, Barrell Craft Spirits’ exceptional range offers a new frontier of flavors for the local palate,” said Jason Kim, Global VP, UOT. “We believe that Barrell Craft Spirits will not only satisfy the current demand but also inspire new whiskey enthusiasts in Korea with its bold and complex profiles.”
Founded in 2013 in Louisville, Kentucky, BCS selects and blends products that explore different distillation methods, barrels, and aging environments. BCS’s extensive stocks of high-quality casks mean it can craft extraordinary blends that maximize the nuances of each ingredient. Creative finishes and a liberated approach to blending guides every product release.
The BCS cask-strength small-batch and single-barrel releases have quickly become an influencing force in American whiskey, picking up more than 150 awards from the world’s most prestigious distilled spirits publications and competitions. To view the complete list, visit https://www.barrellbourbon.com/awards
The award-winning line of BCS releases are now sold in 49 US states, Australia, Canada, South Korea, and the UK. Follow Barrell Craft Spirits on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram or visit barrellbourbon.com.
Barrell Craft Spirits®
Louisville-based Barrell Craft Spirits® is the original, pre-eminent independent blender of unique, aged, cask strength whiskey and rum. Recognized for our blending expertise since 2013, we skillfully design, produce, and launch leading, unique products that surprise
and delight whiskey aficionados and novices alike. Our cask-strength small-batch and single-barrel releases have quickly become an influencing force in American whiskey, winning awards from the world’s most prestigious distilled spirits publications and competitions.
Barrell Craft Spirits®, Barrell®, Barrell Bourbon® and Barrell Rye® are registered trademarks owned by Barrell Craft Spirits LLC.
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by admin | May 9, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Distiller’s Flagship XXX Straight Bourbon Whiskey Called a “Smart Pick for Bourbon Lovers Delivering Balance and Complexity”
Traverse City, MI – Traverse City Whiskey Co. (TCWC), a portfolio of premium whiskeys and bourbon made in Michigan, is thrilled to announce its flagship XXX Straight Bourbon Whiskey was awarded a Double Gold medal and received 91 points at the 2024 TAG Global Spirits Awards. The competition, which features a leadership team composed of four individuals whose sum experience exceeds 160 years, celebrates the world’s great and emerging spirits brands and those who create them.
Known as the “Whiskey of the North,” TCWC draws upon its early family roots in the distilled spirits industry dating back to the late 1800’s, sourcing all its grains (corn, rye, and malted barley) from the Midwest. Led by Chris Fredrickson, the distilling team strives to make quality products, inspired by patented distilling techniques invented by Fredrickson’s great grandfather that were approved by the US PTO during the prohibition era.
“We’re beyond thrilled for our flagship bourbon to be recognized on a global level,” said Chris Fredrickson, Co-founder, Traverse City Whiskey Co.
The award-winning XXX Straight Bourbon Whiskey, which retails for a suggested price of $33, is aged for four years and bottled at 43% ABV (86 proof). This sophisticated bourbon offers a timeless profile of 71% corn, 25% rye and 4% malted barley.
Tasting Notes, courtesy of TAG Global Spirits Awards
- Bright, medium mahogany color. The aromatics are very intense, presenting scents of baking spices, charred oak, baked apple, and vanilla bean with notes of crème brulee, chocolate, and red cherry. The palate is in full accord with the nose delivering a baking spices-driven core with flavors of red currant and roasted nuts. The finish is long and lingering. Full-bodied and ideally balanced with a chewy texture.
At the brand’s Stillhouse in Traverse City, Michigan at 201 E. 14th St, guests can experience the complete distilling process firsthand. A 400-gallon, custom Kothe still sits next to the Tasting Room and Stillhouse Cocktail Bar where visitors conclude their tour. When the still, which is naturally cooled by Michigan ground water, is running at full capacity, it can create up to 4,000 barrels of whiskey per year.
TCWC products are available in 750ml bottles at both on- and off-premise establishments in the following markets: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Washington, Washington DC, Wisconsin. Retail prices may vary by market.
For more information, please visit www.tcwhiskey.com and follow the brand on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram @tcwhiskey
About Traverse City Whiskey Co.
Traverse City Whiskey Co. is an independent and locally owned distilled spirits company based in Traverse City, Michigan, that’s dedicated to producing approachable premium to super-premium whiskey and bourbon. Known as “The Whiskey of the North,” the upstart company draws upon its early family roots in the distilled spirits industry dating back to the late 1800’s, sourcing all grains from the Midwest.
Traverse City Whiskey Co. is a proud member of the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States (DISCUS).
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