by admin | Feb 3, 2025 | IN THE NEWS
“La Loma” Plata and Reposado Expressions are a Celebration of Terroir
Corona del Mar, CA (February 3, 2025) – Lágrimas del Valle, the award-winning tequila which celebrates “terroir,” has launched its newest ranch, “La Loma” (The Hill). The Plata and Reposado expressions represent the fourth field harvested for the brand and the first to come from the state of Michoacán.
Lágrimas del Valle is produced in collaboration with Tequila Cascahuin (NOM 1123) and current Master Distiller Salvador “Chava” Rosales Trejo. Their distilling tradition dates back three generations to 1904 in El Arenal, Jalisco, Mexico, in the heart of the “Valley” of Tequila. Each bottling carries a familiar profile but will be distinctly unique in both flavor and aroma.
Lágrimas begins by selecting the best single ranch of Blue Weber Agave available – looking for ripeness, but also for signs of complexities of flavor. The agaves are then loaded into their small 12-16-ton steam powered masonry ovens. Cascahuin utilizes a unique intermittent cooking method for eight hours per day, then stopping until the following day, and repeating over the course of four days. This allows for deep layers of flavor to be developed. The cooked agaves are then removed from the ovens, and their “agua miel” (honey waters) extracted. 70% of the agaves are crushed utilizing a roller mill and then fermented in stainless steel tanks, while the other 30% are crushed using a Tahona, and fermented in open air wooden tanks.
“Lágrimas demonstrates that terroir exists in agave fields as it exists in the vineyards of Burgundy,” said Brandon Cummins, Director of Education. “While many brands aim to create a consistent profile year over year, Lágrimas embraces the uniqueness of each individual ranch and produces in such a way as to emphasize that distinct character. We do this intentionally, to demonstrate the rich complexity of the Blue Weber Agave.”
La Loma Tasting Notes:
- Plata showcases an agave forward presence, with hints of citrus peel, ripe melon, roasted pine nuts, and clover – with a creamy and rich palate, bright citrus notes, subtle minerality and rich agave throughout.
- Reposado is rested for just three months in ex-Bourbon barrels. The vintage showcases notes of tangerine, canela, and lemongrass, all around a core of roasted agave, anise, salted caramel, and cantaloupe.
Previous Lágrimas del Valle releases include:
- Palo Verde (2022)
- Top 100 Spirits of 2022, Wine Enthusiast, 94 points (Plata)
- Best Sipping Tequilas of 2024, Men’s Journal (Plata)
- El Chiqueño (2022)
- “This is what tequila is supposed to taste like” -Doug Price, Agave Social Club Podcast
- El Sabino (2023)
- 30 Best Tequilas for 2024, Vinepair, 96 points (Plata)
- Top 100 Spirits of 2024, Wine Enthusiast, 94 points (Reposado)
Lágrimas del Valle “La Loma” Plata and Reposado tequilas are double-distilled, blended, and bottled at 92 proof (46% ABV). Each bottle notes the vintage date of harvest, name of the single ranch, as well as details pertaining to its elevation, location, and distinctive characteristics. Both expressions are available throughout the U.S. and online for the suggested retail price of $59.99 and $64.99, respectively.
For more information, please visit https://altamarbrands.com/brands/lagrimastequila/
About Altamar Brands LLC
Founded in 2005 by W. L. Lyons Brown, III, Altamar Brands is a small, entrepreneurial outfit founded to develop and import esoteric, artisanal spirits brands that offer unique and distinctive production stories in their respective categories. They include: High n’ Wicked Whiskeys, Foursquare Exceptional Cask Selections Rums, Probitas Rum, R.L. Seale’s 12-Year-Aged Barbados Rum, Elvelo Tequila, Kubler Absinthe, Right Gin and Lágrimas del Valle Tequila.
For more information, please visit https://altamarbrands.com/
With Cocktailing, Quality Bests Quantity.
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by admin | Jan 27, 2025 | IN THE NEWS
New Release Using Secondary Maturation Now Available in Select Markets
Louisville, KY (January 28, 2025) – Barrell Craft Spirits® (BCS), the original independent blender of unique aged, cask strength whiskey since 2013, today launched Barrell Foundation Double Barrel Bourbon. The new release is a line extension of Barrell Foundation, the company’s first non-cask strength bourbon, which was crafted to be enjoyed neat and in cocktails.
Barrell Foundation Double Barrel Bourbon exhibits all the complexity found in a Barrell Craft Spirits bourbon at a lower proof. Secondary maturation in new American oak casks enhances the notes of dark chocolate, leather, dried fruit, and toasted marshmallows, while the 23 percent rye in the mash bill gives a richness to the blend. This is a versatile, full-flavored bourbon perfect for enjoying neat, over ice, or in a cocktail.
The new expression is a blend of Kentucky (8yr), Indiana (5, 6, and 9yr), Tennessee (8yr), and Maryland (5 and 6yr) bourbon whiskeys. It features a derived mashbill of 73% corn, 23% rye, and 4% malted barley and is bottled at 100-proof (50% ABV).
Barrell Foundation Double Barrel Bourbon is now available for purchase online via the Barrell Craft Spirits website and in select U.S. markets beginning this month for the suggested retail price of $54.99 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 | Jan 22, 2025 | IN THE NEWS
New Expression Aged in Untoasted French Oak Barrels, Toasted French Oak Barrels, and Cognac Cask
Chicago, IL (January 21, 2025) – Cambio Tequila, a new brand which explores the possibilities of barrel finishing respective to flavor and character more than any other tequila, has added a flagship Añejo expression to its award-winning brand portfolio.
As with all Cambio tequilas, this exceptional spirit is carefully crafted at every step using only sustainable practices to change the way tequila enthusiasts think about Añejo. The new expression starts with 100 percent whole, high-altitude estate-only Blue Weber Agave cooked at lower temperatures and pressed with a traditional tahona wheel to extract greater flavor. Cambio also uses a unique wine yeast and a longer, two-week fermentation process in open-air, oak and pine wood tanks, which is distilled at the lowest temperature for superior flavor and character. The expression is then triple barrel-aged for up to 22 months in a series of wine barrels: first use Untoasted French Oak Barrels, second use Toasted French Oak Chardonnay Barrels, and 30-year-old Limousin Cognac Casks, and then bottled at 92 proof (46% ABV). The palate greets tequila lovers with toasted grapes and bight floral notes as well as deeper notes of roasted agave from Cambio’s slow and low-heat distillation process. The long barrel aging lends this Añejo notes of butterscotch and warm spice, and delivers a lingering finish characterized by rich, buttery oak that both warms and invites a second sip.
“Cambio Añejo is what happens when you expect more from your tequila,” said Founder and CEO John des Rosiers. “Cambio stands for change that matters —the relentless pursuit to improve, build and evolve. We’re committed to flavor and quality first and every choice we made with Cambio was designed to show the true potential of the spirit.”
A 30-year veteran of the world’s finest kitchens and bars, des Rosiers believed that there was a missed opportunity in the tequila category. A classically trained Chef, he 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 and meaningful change 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.
The Distillery
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 in Jalisco (Los Altos) 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.
Availability
Along with the brand’s flagship Blanco ($49.99) and Reposado ($59.99) expressions, Cambio Añejo ($69.99) is sold online and in select on- and off-premise retail locations in Arizona, California, Florida, Illinois, New York, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin. For more information, please visit www.cambiotequila.com.
Please follow Cambio Tequila on Facebook and Instagram.
About Cambio Tequila
Cambio stands for change that matters, 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 | Nov 26, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Trio of New Offerings Available Beginning Saturday, November 30
Traverse City, MI – Traverse City Whiskey Co. (TCWC), a portfolio of premium whiskeys and bourbon made in Michigan, will welcome the holidays with the launch of three limited-release Holiday Reserve bottlings beginning on Saturday, November 30 at 10am at the Stillhouse (201 E. 14th St. Traverse City) and Outpost (22812 Woodward Ave. #200 Ferndale).
- 2024 Holiday Bourbon ($230)
- This 16-year bourbon from MGP highlights a mashbill of 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley, and was finished at 49% ABV (98 proof). Only 139 bottles available
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- Nose: Tobacco, dates, and toasted almond
- Body: Sticky toffee pudding from deep caramel and dried fruit
- Finish: Spiced rye with burnt marshmallow and oak
- 2024 Holiday Rye ($140)
- This 12-year expression boasts a classic mashbill of 95% rye and 5% malted barley. It was finished at 58.6% ABV (117.2 proof). Only 141 bottles available
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- Nose: Poached pears with herbal notes of dill, and lemon thyme
- Body: Rich demerara sugar and gingery spice
- Finish: Molasses with bold barrel char and cooling mint
- 2024 Holiday Maple-Finished Bourbon ($100)
- A first-of-its-kind expression from TCWC, this unique bourbon was aged in barrels seasoned with northern Michigan maple syrup. First, the bourbon was aged for five years, developing a strong foundation of flavor. Next, the emptied barrel was filled with Grade-A maple syrup and aged for three months, allowing the syrup to fully permeate the wood. After purging the syrup, the original bourbon was reintroduced to the barrel, finishing its aging for nearly four more years. Featuring a mashbill of 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley and finished at 57.2% ABV (114.4 proof). Only 177 bottles available.
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- Nose: Intense sweet maple syrup, spiced oranges, shortbread cookies
- Body: Toasted pecans with cocoa and candied citrus rind
- Finish: Warming cinnamon apples, brown sugar, buttery pie crust, and lingering leather
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.
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.
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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by admin | Nov 13, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
Limited-Release Showcases the Company’s Blending and Finishing Expertise for Making Bespoke Blends
Louisville, KY (November 13, 2024) – Barrell Craft Spirits® (BCS), the original independent blender of unique aged, cask strength whiskey since 2013, today launched a special 33-year Canadian Whiskey finished in French Oak and Oloroso Sherry Casks at 140 proof (70% ABV). The BCS blending team produced 1,500 total bottles of the limited-release blend, 333 of which are now available online at www.barrellbourbon.com and 70 of which are available at the Watterson facility in Louisville. The rest will be available in select stores in select states for the suggested retail price of $199.99.
This blend of hand selected whiskey barrels is an exceptional representation of the character and depth of a mature whiskey. After maturing for 33 years in the original barrels, the whiskey developed zesty citrus and herbal characteristics with notes of vanilla and veg tanned leather. Further resting in French Oak and Oloroso sherry casks through the well-defined Kentucky seasons imparted robust and toasty highlights enhancing the complex sensory experience. Soft and satisfyingly mature, the aroma of purple berries blends seamlessly with hazelnut liqueur and garam masala. The palate comes alive with water; endlessly entertaining as every splash reveals different nuts, spices, herbs and sweets. But the finish always returns to a deep, mulchy earthiness.
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 | Oct 23, 2024 | IN THE NEWS
New Offerings Showcase the Company’s Blending and Finishing Expertise
Louisville, KY (October 22, 2024) – Barrell Craft Spirits® (BCS), the original independent blender of unique aged, cask strength whiskey since 2013, today launched two new BCS Gray Label offerings. The limited-edition releases utilize the company’s blending and finishing expertise to make bespoke blends with unique finishes.
BCS Gray Label Bourbon (13-year)
For this expression, the BCS blending team created a blend of straight bourbon whiskeys distilled in Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee, and Wyoming and matured for between 13-19 years. The barrels harvested for this limited release were selected for their refined properties and extraordinary flavor profile. This complex blend is an opulent bourbon with notes of dark chocolate, Amarena cherry, vanilla and brûléed orange. Every facet of this bourbon is bathed in freshly scraped vanilla bean. A minty fresh and woodsy nose nevertheless retains its foundational cereal note of cinnamon raisin bagel. On the palate one is greeted by a sweet and oily mouthfeel that brings with it notes of demerara rum and apple pie spice. Water unleashes chocolate and coconut and reveals a complex earthiness to the aroma. The new expression is now available online via the BCS website at barrellbourbon.com and in select retailers for the suggested retail price of $159.99 per 750ml bottle.
BCS Gray Label Seagrass (19-year)
For this expression, the BCS blending team selected two groups of 19-year-old 100% Canadian Rye barrels – one with bright citrus and crisp green apple notes and the other with earthy spearmint notes – which were distilled in Canada. A portion of the first group was finished in Apricot Brandy casks, a portion of the second group was finished in Martinique rhum barrels, and a blend of the first and second groups was finished in Malmsey Madeira barrels. When each set of secondary maturation flavors peaked, those casks were pulled and slowly married into the final blend. This deeply mature and rye whiskey has a classic, grassy aroma reinforced by the equally iconic, fresh notes of aged Rhum Agricole. On the palate, the oily rye is complemented by the oxidative, nutty madeira character that also balances that richness with exuberant acidity. Apricot brandy casks splash bright, sometimes tropical fruit over the finish before it fades to reveal the maritime minerality that lends this whiskey its name. The new expression will be available in select retailers later this month and online via the BCS website at barrellbourbon.com, beginning December 1, for the suggested retail price of $199.99 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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