By Blake Jackson
The University of Kentuckys James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits is taking a significant step forward in its mission to propel the American whiskey industry. Since opening its doors in 2023, the institutes distilling team has been diligently working towards this milestone the creation of their first spirit.
The inaugural spirit was distilled on campus and marks a new chapter in the longstanding collaboration between the University of Kentucky and the bourbon industry. This exciting achievement was unveiled during the Beam Institutes largest Industry Conference yet, drawing over 1,100 attendees for three days of insightful sessions.
Sharing this momentous occasion with over a thousand industry colleagues couldnt be more fitting, remarked UK Beam Institute Director Seth DeBolt. This signifies another chapter in our commitment to Kentuckys signature spirit.
The project was spearheaded by Beam Institute research director Brad Berron, with valuable contributions from Glenna Joyce (education coordinator), Kevin Baldridge (craft sustainability coordinator), and Jarrad Gollihue (technical director). The team meticulously collaborated throughout the entire distillation process.
We were fortunate to learn from the expertise of Kentuckys distilling community, said Berron. Thanks to our time spent with professionals from Beam Suntory, Jeptha Creed, Castle Key, James E Pepper, and Bardstown Bourbon, we were able to produce an exceptional initial distillate for this historic barrel.
The bourbon recipe incorporates 75% corn, balanced with 12.5% each of rye and malt. The new-make spirit boasts a 110-proof strength upon filling the barrel. The barrel itself was crafted using staves seasoned for six months, then subjected to a #4 char level before being filled.
Now, the barrel will find its new home in the on-site ISC Boswell Family Barrel Warehouse at the Institute. There, it will patiently age for at least four years, reaching the maturity required to be designated a true Kentucky bourbon.
To learn more about the James B. Beam Institute for Kentucky Spirits, visit https://beaminstitute.ca.uky.edu.
Photo Credit - istock-pkujiahe
Categories: Kentucky, Business, Education