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Unravel the story of Yellowstone Bourbon, exploring its production process, flavor journey, and exciting variants. Whether you're a seasoned enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of bourbon, join us on a journey of discovery as we uncover the essence of Yellowstone Bourbon and its enduring legacy. 
Yellowstone Bourbon has a long history dating back to 1872 when it was first crafted by J.B. Dant in Kentucky. Since then, it has passed through different owners, including the Beam family and Heaven Hill Distilleries, before being acquired by Luxco in 2010. This acquisition marked a significant step in the brand's journey, providing it with new opportunities for growth and development.

The History of Yellowstone Bourbon

The brand grew significantly after Luxco's acquisition of Yellowstone Bourbon in 2010. Luxco's resources and expertise enabled Yellowstone Bourbon to expand its reach and enhance its offerings, while still honoring its rich heritage and traditional craftsmanship. Under Luxco's stewardship, Yellowstone Bourbon continued to uphold its reputation for exceptional quality and flavor, maintaining its status as a beloved bourbon among enthusiasts.
One notable aspect of Yellowstone Bourbon's development after the Luxco acquisition was the introduction of new expressions and variants. Luxco leveraged its expertise in spirits production and marketing to innovate and diversify the Yellowstone Bourbon portfolio. This included the release of small batch releases, limited editions, and special finishes, providing consumers with a wider range of options to explore and enjoy.
Additionally, Luxco's investment in marketing and distribution channels helped to increase Yellowstone Bourbon's visibility and availability both domestically and internationally. The brand's presence expanded in liquor stores, bars, and restaurants, allowing more consumers to discover and appreciate its unique flavor profile. Overall, Luxco's acquisition of Yellowstone Bourbon marked a new chapter in the brand's journey, driving growth, innovation, and continued success in the competitive bourbon market.

How is Yellowstone Bourbon Produced?

Yellowstone Bourbon's production stands out for its emphasis on high-quality, locally sourced grains and its unique aging method in fresh charred oak barrels, which provides a particular flavor profile rich in vanilla, caramel, and oak. 
  1. Grain Selection and Milling: The creation of Yellowstone Bourbon begins with the meticulous selection of premium grains, including corn, rye, and malted barley. These grains are milled into a coarse meal, setting the foundation for the bourbon's distinctive flavor profile.
  2. Mashing and Cooking: The ground grains, now referred to as the mash bill, are blended with water and cooked. This process extracts the sugars from the grains, resulting in a sweet concoction known as the mash, which is pivotal for the next stage.
  3. Fermentation: To the sweet mash, yeast is introduced, kickstarting the fermentation. This crucial step transforms the sugars into alcohol, yielding a product affectionately termed "distiller's beer" due to its alcoholic content and raw state.
  4. Distillation: The journey continues as the distiller's beer undergoes distillation in either copper pot stills or column stills. This method refines the liquid, separating the alcohol to produce the clear, potent "white dog" or "new make spirit."
  5. Aging in Charred Oak Barrels: The "white dog" is then aged in new charred oak barrels. This aging, which lasts a minimum of four years, imbues the bourbon with its signature flavors and aromas, including notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak, through interaction with the wood.
  6. Barrel Storage and Flavor Development: Stored in warehouses, the barrels undergo temperature fluctuations, enhancing the aging process and enriching the bourbon's flavor complexity.
  7. Blending and Bottling: Completing its journey, the aged bourbon is meticulously blended and bottled. Each bottle of Yellowstone Bourbon encapsulates a tradition of excellence, showcasing the craftsmanship and detailed process that define American whiskey-making.
These processes, combined with traditional distillation methods, result in a bourbon that not only embodies the spirit of American workmanship, but also provides a distinct flavor experience from other bourbons.

Buying Guide

Yellowstone Hand Selected Barrel

Our Yellowstone Hand Selected Barrel Pick is a premium bourbon chosen by our very own bourbon-loving community! It's a smooth and mellow product with rich notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice, providing a high-quality and luxurious drinking experience. Stop in today to taste it for yourself (and pick up a bottle!)

Yellowstone Limited Edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey 101 Proof Finished In Tokaji Casks

This limited edition bourbon undergoes a special finishing process in Tokaji wine casks, known for their rich nutty flavors and bold notes of honey, apricot, fig, and oak. This rare label is sought after by collectors and enthusiasts - the perfect addition to any whiskey collection.

Yellowstone Toasted Special Finishes Collection Bourbon 100 Proof Kentucky

This variant is Yellowstone’s first foray into exploring various finishes and perspectives on the classic bourbon flavor profile. Finished in toasted barrels that add a rich and robust character, this Yellowstone variant features flavors of dark oak, caramelized sugars, baking spices, and a hint of smoke - making it a fast favorite among bourbon lovers.

    Appreciating Yellowstone Bourbon

    To fully savor the flavor of bourbon, select an appropriate glass that enhances its aroma and taste. A tulip or Glencairn-shaped glass is ideal for concentrating the bourbon's complex scents. Pour a moderate amount, about 1.5 to 2 ounces, into the glass, allowing you to appreciate the color. This alone provides insights into the bourbon's age and flavor characteristics.
    Once poured, take a moment to observe the bourbon's color and gently swirl the glass to release its aromatic bouquet. Bring the glass to your nose and take short, deliberate sniffs to fully appreciate the range of aromas, including notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice. When you take a sip, let the bourbon coat your palate, allowing the flavors to unfold gradually. Experiment with adding a few drops of water to unlock additional flavors, adjusting the amount until you find the perfect balance that enhances the bourbon's complexity without diluting it excessively.
    Whether you prefer to enjoy your bourbon neat or with ice, take your time to savor each sip and reflect on its nuances. Notice how the flavors evolve over time and linger on your palate, providing a rich and satisfying drinking experience.

    Bourbon Cocktails

    Old Fashioned

    Experience the timeless charm of the Old Fashioned, a classic bourbon cocktail loved for its simplicity and rich flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this cocktail blends bourbon with aromatic bitters and a touch of sweetness for a truly satisfying sip.

    Ingredients:
    • 2 oz bourbon
    • 1/4 oz simple syrup
    • 2 dashes Angostura bitters
    • Orange peel
    • Ice
    Instructions:
    1. In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, simple syrup, and bitters.
    2. Fill the glass with ice and stir until well-chilled.
    3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
    4. Express the oils from the orange peel over the drink, then garnish with the peel.

    Mint Julep

    Cool off with a Mint Julep, a refreshing bourbon cocktail that captures the essence of Southern hospitality. With its blend of bourbon, fresh mint, and simple syrup, it's the perfect drink for relaxing on a warm day.

    Ingredients:
    • 2 oz bourbon
    • 1/2 oz simple syrup
    • 6-8 fresh mint leaves
    • Crushed ice
    Instructions:
    1. In a julep cup or highball glass, muddle the mint leaves with the simple syrup.
    2. Fill the glass with crushed ice.
    3. Pour bourbon over the ice.
    4. Stir gently to combine and chill.
    5. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint.

    Where to Find Yellowstone Bourbon

    Ready to try this iconic beverage? Find the whole selection at Seneca Wine & Liquor at 8630 Seneca Turnpike, New Hartford, NY 13413, or order online at www.shopsenecawine.com! We’re here to supply everything you need to mix up refreshing beverages. Come visit or give us a call at (315) 724-8672 to try Yellowstone Bourbon today.