Deerhammer Progeny Series No. 4, Vino Verso, Now Available
The next edition of the Progeny Series at Deerhammer takes form as a collaboration with the highly acclaimed Carboy Winery, one of Colorado’s largest and most well-known wine operations.
BUENA VISTA, CO— The next edition of the Progeny Series at Deerhammer takes form as a collaboration with the highly acclaimed Carboy Winery, one of Colorado’s largest and most well-known wine operations. Release No. 4 is an expression of the distillery’s flagship American Single Malt aged in three different casks from Carboy Winery Littleton, just one of their four locations throughout the state. This collaboration is available in Colorado while supplies last.
A celebration of Colorado and its innovative spirit, The Progeny Series is a lineup of small-batch spirits created through partnerships between Deerhammer and other crafters in The Centennial State. Thus far the series has included a whiskey and chocolate pairing with Cultura Chocolate; a Redstone Meadery mead-barrel aged Single Malt Whiskey called Honeycomber; and Cask Savant, a Bierschnapps distilled from Crooked Stave Hop Savant hoppy Brett beer.
For Progeny Series No. 4, Deerhammer Founder Lenny Eckstein set out to acquire a range of freshly harvested Carboy barrels to lend a secondary finishing note to Deerhammer’s highly decorated American Single Malt whiskey. After an initial three-year maturation in toasted/charred new oak, Vino Verso embarked on a secondary journey of an additional two years commingled within three distinct Carboy cask types: Albariño, Bourbon Barrel Cider, and Gewurztraminer Brandy (Blend Composition: 65% Albariño, 10% Cider, 25% Brandy). The resulting whiskey evokes cherry pie filling, cinnamon raisin bread, hibiscus tea, and toasted oak aroma, the flavors of grilled peaches, freshly baked sourdough, lavender, and blackberry jam— with more toasted oak, dried apple slices, leather, honeysuckle, and grape skins on the finish.
"The extraordinary facet of this collaboration was the distinct flavor profiles extracted from three unique aging vessels,” says Carboy Director of Winemaking Tyzok Wharton. “Lenny and his team have crafted an elegantly layered experience with this blend— the floral notes from the Albariño and cider casks carry through to butterscotch panna cotta on the palate, from the Gewurztraminer brandy casks. The texture is ethereal. And the patience required for this release... worthwhile."
Vino Verso is available in limited 750ML bottles at select Colorado retailers with an SRP of $59.00. It’s also available as a pour at all Carboy Winery locations while supplies last.
For more information about Deerhammer and the Progeny Series, contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com.
ABOUT DEERHAMMER
Steeped in Tradition. Crafted in Colorado.
Amy and Lenny Eckstein founded Deerhammer in 2010. Drawn to Buena Vista, Colorado by the whitewater currents of the Arkansas River, their passion for whiskey is driven by that same adventurous spirit. As artisans and business owners, Amy and Lenny’s process is defined by a deep curiosity for the history of spirits and a thoughtful analysis of each individual step of the distilling process. Deerhammer's cornerstone contribution to the field of American craft spirits, Single Malt Whiskey, has become the company's flagship product. Deerhammer also distills Whitewater Whiskey, Buena Vista Brandy, and Dutch Style Gin. Find the distillery online at deerhammer.com.
ABOUT CARBOY WINERY
Modern-day pioneers of Colorado wine, Carboy Winery is a passionate group of winemakers and restaurateurs. Since 2016 our award-winning wines have helped lift the Colorado wine industry into prominence as a wine region ripe with possibilities. Through ambitious winemaking and innovation with new varietal wines, sparkling wines, and wine seltzers, Carboy is slowly turning a state known for its beer into one that creates exciting and adventurous wines. Year after year, our commitment to Colorado viticulture continues to grow. One of the largest producers in the state, we craft impactful wines that reveal the extraordinary terroir and unmistakable typicity of Colorado's Grand Valley and Washington's Horse Heaven Hills AVAs. Come visit any of our four Colorado locations in Littleton, Denver, Breckenridge, and Palisade.
Stay up to date on the latest Carboy Winery news, join the wine club, or host your next event with us! Visit us online at carboywinery.com or follow us on Instagram.
Deerhammer and Eddyline Brewery Are Building The Crank N’ Hammer Trail In Buena Vista With Distilled Beer
Deerhammer and Eddyline debuted Trail Forge Whiskey last year, a project now five years in the making that has raised $25,000 in funds for the creation of the new Crank 'n Hammer trail in Buena Vista. The next single barrel bottling of Trail Forge will be available in May.
BUENA VISTA, CO— Deerhammer and Eddyline debuted Trail Forge last year, a project now five years in the making that has raised $25,000 in funds for the creation of the new Crank 'n Hammer trail in Buena Vista. The next single barrel bottling of Trail Forge will be available in May.
The concept for Trail Forge was conceived in 2018 as an unexpected excess of IPA cans that Eddyline wanted to make good use of while the beer was fresh. A squad of volunteers from the Buena Vista Singletrack Coalition hand poured each of these cans, 10,000 gallons worth, of Crank Yanker into the still at Deerhammer. “All of the volunteers thought it was so awesome that this work was going to make whiskey that was going to make trails,” says Deerhammer Founder & Owner Lenny Eckstein. “And that’s exactly what happened.”
The Crank n’ Hammer trail is a 2.1 mile section connecting Camp Elevation South with Fistful of Dollars, a loop that will avoid car traffic on CR 304. Volunteers for Outdoor Colorado will be building a portion of this highly anticipated bikeway on May 13 and 14, and the full distance is slated for completion during the upcoming warm months.
Buena Vista institutions Deerhammer and Eddyline were both founded in part because of the surrounding Arkansas Valley trail system that they biked on long before they crafted spirits and beers for the growing number of locals and visitors in the area. Owners Lenny Eckstein of Deerhammer and Brian England of Eddyline have only gotten more passionate about these nearby trails as they raise their families in the area, and cultivate community over pints and drams aprés mountain biking. Over the years they have collaborated on various barrel aged beer projects, with their latest endeavor to craft Deerhammer whiskey from Eddyline beer inspired by and in support of Buena Vista’s extensive trail system.
This unique category of spirits— referred to Bierschnapps in Germany– is beer distilled into spirit. The grain bill on its own might yield a malt whiskey, “but with the flavor addition of the hops added in the boil and post-fermentation, this spirit takes a turn away from more traditional whiskey notes,” says Eckstein. “It hits a hybrid flavor profile that would likely intrigue any whiskey purist, and at the same time lure in those that typically reach for a hoppy beer rather than a pour of whiskey.”
The latest expression of Trail Forge was aged 4.5 years and will be at a cask strength of 110 proof. “The extra time in the barrel definitely rounds out the typical citrus hop notes into more of a subtle, fruit-forward essence,” says Eckstein. “Cantaloupe meets blueberries meets lemongrass and peppercorn. It almost hits me more like a brandy than a whiskey.”
Created by local mountain biker Brinkley Messick, who has helped to build many trails in Buena Vista and beyond, the collectible Trail Forge label artwork features beer and whiskey elements, and local topography to boot. This second bottling of Trail Forge will become available at Deerhammer and Eddyline in May, just in time to welcome peak mountain biking season in the Arkansas Valley.
For more information about Trail Forge, contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com.
ABOUT DEERHAMMER
Steeped in Tradition. Crafted in Colorado.
Amy and Lenny Eckstein founded Deerhammer in 2010. Drawn to Buena Vista, Colorado by the whitewater currents of the Arkansas River, their passion for whiskey is driven by that same adventurous spirit. As artisans and business owners, Amy and Lenny’s process is defined by a deep curiosity for the history of spirits and a thoughtful analysis of each individual step of the distilling process. Deerhammer's cornerstone contribution to the field of American craft spirits, Single Malt Whiskey, has become the company's flagship product. Deerhammer also distills Whitewater Whiskey, Buena Vista Brandy, and Dutch Style Gin. Find the distillery online at deerhammer.com.
ABOUT EDDYLINE BREWERY
Eddyline Taproom & Brewery is one of Colorado’s fastest growing microbreweries. Since 2009, Eddyline has been focused on creating unique ales and lagers of the highest quality while representing the state’s outdoor enthusiasts. Our 16-ounce cans are infinitely recyclable, preserve the quality and freshness of the beer and are easily transportable for your favorite outdoor adventures. Eddyline works closely with local groups to help improve trails, river parks, and strongly believes in being an active steward of the local Chaffee County community. Find the brewery online at eddylinebrewing.com.
Deerhammer Presents Cask Savant in collaboration with Crooked Stave
“To our knowledge this is the very first example of a spirit born from a 100% Brettanomyces yeast fermentation,” says Deerhammer Founder and Head Distiller Lenny Eckstein.
BUENA VISTA, CO— Deerhammer presents the second bottle in its Progeny Series crafted in collaboration with Crooked Stave. Cask Savant is now available in limited quantities at Colorado retailers.
The Progeny Series is a lineup of small-batch spirits created through inspired partnerships between Deerhammer and other crafters in Colorado. Cask Savant is the second official spirit in this series coming after a whiskey and chocolate pairing with Cultura Chocolate, and an array of barrel aging projects with the likes of Wit’s End Brewing Company, Call To Arms Brewing, and Colorado Cider Company.
In 2015, Deerhammer lay Crooked Stave Hop Savant— a hoppy Brett beer— to rest in heavy toast light char American oak casks. The results of this 50% ABV spirit play out with notes of blackberry jam, sage brush, orange peel, hazelnut, toasted bread crust, and a spectacular interlacing of funky lupulin spice; all of which have culminated in a remarkable dram that you will not taste the likes of anywhere else.
“Getting to work with a local Colorado distillery that is truly hands-on, making their own wash, fermenting, and distilling is something I wanted to do since I started Crooked Stave. Deerhammer is that perfect partner,” adds Crooked Stave Owner and Brewmaster Chad Yakobson.“I think it's truly amazing the time and love that went into the creation of Progeny Series No. 2 ~ Cask Savant. For Lenny and his team to devote five years to aging this wild and adventurous spirit is something unique.”
“To our knowledge this is the very first example of a spirit born from a 100% Brettanomyces yeast fermentation,” says Deerhammer Founder and Head Distiller Lenny Eckstein, “and those hallmark, rustic, funky-fruit Brett characteristics have materialized big time!”
Cask Savant is available in limited 750ML bottles at select Colorado retailers with an SRP of $69.99 while supplies last.
Deerhammer is currently aging more Progeny Series spirits in Redstone Meadery and Carboy Winery barrels, among others, that will be released in coming months to years.
For more information about Cask Savant or Deerhammer, contact Emily Hutto at hutto@radcraftbeer.com.
ABOUT DEERHAMMER
Steeped in Tradition. Crafted in Colorado.
Amy and Lenny Eckstein founded Deerhammer in 2010. Drawn to Buena Vista, Colorado by the whitewater currents of the Arkansas River, their passion for whiskey is driven by that same adventurous spirit. As artisans and business owners, Amy and Lenny’s process is defined by a deep curiosity for the history of spirits and a thoughtful analysis of each individual step of the distilling process. Deerhammer's cornerstone contribution to the field of American craft spirits, Single Malt Whiskey, has become the company's flagship product. Deerhammer also distills Whitewater Whiskey, Buena Vista Brandy, and Dutch Style Gin. Find the distillery online at deerhammer.com.
ABOUT CROOKED STAVE
Founded in 2010, Crooked Stave is a modern, artisan brewery with a quality-driven focus. The brewery strives to blend science and art through creativity and following our passion. Located in Denver’s Sunnyside neighborhood, Crooked Stave is recognized throughout the world for complex and creative wild and sour, barrel-aged beers and a variety of traditional and innovative ales and lagers of all kinds. Crooked Stave invites beer-lovers to visit the Crooked Stave tap rooms located at the brewery, as well as in Fort Collins at The Exchange, and seek out Crooked Stave beer offerings wherever sold. For more information, follow Crooked Stave on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
Why Rapids & Grass is a Brewer's Favorite Festival, Even When They Can't Go
Why Rapids & Grass in downtown Buena Vista, Colorado is a brewer’s (and distiller’s) favorite festival.
Photo by Zach Mahone @ South Main Co.
“The beer is great, the music is fire, and the venue is laid out wonderfully.”
That’s Ashleigh Carter, the co-founder and head brewer of Bierstadt Lagerhaus. She’s not alone.
You know it’s a good sign when you see a brewer at a beer festival. And in this case, the Rapids & Grass festival in Buena Vista is packed full of them— especially in anticipation of the festival’s rafting component.
Rapids & Grass is so much more than just a beer fest; it’s an opportunity to get to the mountains, enjoy the river, and get social. Although the festival has decided to skip this year, keeping public health and safety in mind, it still goes down as one of our favorite festivals -- and here’s why the brewers agree.
“The Rapids & Grass beer festival is unlike any other beer festival I have attended. I have traveled all over the country and poured at a few different beer festivals in Europe and none of them are as laid back and chill as Rapids & Grass,” shares Skip Schwartz, wood cellar and innovation lead at WeldWerks Brewing, “Attendees have access to some of the best beer Colorado has to offer at their fingertips with a relaxed, no lines or waiting. Last year was my first time attending and I know why I will be going back in the future. Never have I worked a festival with my shoes off and my pants rolled up and it fit into the atmosphere of the festival. Not to mention a water gun fight broke out mid-festival with a few other brewers, which was a lot of fun!”
Jordan Wheeler, senior packaging operator at WeldWerks Brewing adds, “Ummm everything Skip said. It’s definitely a festival I want to attend every year. It will never get old pouring beautiful beer with such a beautiful backdrop.”
There’s no arguing that the festival’s venue is one that is hard to rival. It also makes for a perfect location for brewers to also kick back, relax, and hang out with each other.
“Obviously Buena Vista is beautiful,” shares Carter, “and really the beer is just a small part of the fest.”
“What makes it unique is how many brewers actually participate,” Carter continues, “We all get to hang out and camp together the night before and night of the festival, so there is that added social aspect that makes it fun to participate.”
It’s not just the brewers who enjoy it, either.
“It’s an honor to get to pour our whiskey amongst some of the best beers around, and it’s inspiring to see what these brewers continually offer up such bad ass expressions of their craft,” says Lenny Eckstein, founder & head distiller at Deerhammer in downtown Buena Vista, “It’s always been Deerhammer’s approach to bring innovation and creativity to whiskey. A huge part of this is fueled for us by those on the beer side of the fence.”
Not to mention, the festival draws huge crowds to the Arkansas Valley, boosting tourism and the area’s economic viability.
“There’s this ongoing effort to bring visitation to BV throughout the year,” shares Eckstien, “The thing about Rapids and Grass is that the crowd that comes up here, who’ve maybe blazed through BV or heard of our hot springs or killer mountain bike trails, or whatever, when they come here for Rapids & Grass they are getting full exposure to the full spectrum of awesomeness that BV has to offer. Deerhammer is PACKED during Rapids and Grass. It’s a great crowd who comes here looking to enjoy this place.”
To our friends Sarah, Shane, and their great Rapids & Grass partners, we love you and we miss you. Thank you for bringing world-class beer and music to Buena Vista.
— Words by Karen Mills
Deerhammer To Release Exclusive Run of Elevation Apis IV Quad Barrel Finished Bourbon
Today Deerhammer releases Elevation Apis IV Quad Barrel Finished Bourbon.
BUENA VISTA, CO— Today Deerhammer releases a spirit that represents one of Colorado’s most compelling craft brewery-distillery collaborations: Elevation Apis IV Quad Barrel Finished Bourbon.
It starts with a beer, like all good whiskey stories do. Apis IV is a Dark Belgian-Style Ale brewed in the Trappist tradition and is one of the oldest recipes at Deerhammer’s neighbor, Elevation Beer Company in Poncha Springs. With a touch of locally sourced honey from Beekeepers Honey Boutique in Salida, the name Apis is a nod to the hardworking genus of the honeybee that help make this beer possible. Boasting notes of plum, fig, and molasses, Apis IV has a medium to heavy mouthfeel and finishes with subtle floral hops.
Deerhammer used Elevation’s Apis IV barrels to finish a batch of its Bourbon, already aged for two years in charred new oak. This barrel quickly became the honey barrel (or the beloved barrel) at the distillery and was an obvious choice when selecting an exclusive spirit to be sold at Total Wine & More in Denver, Colorado.
“This is one batch of bourbon with a very interesting journey from grain to bottle,” says Deerhammer Owner and Head Distiller, Lenny Eckstein. “I’ve never known of another spirit go into a beer barrel with such complexity to contribute to the bourbon. It’s almost like a fortified wine cask finish— the fruit notes that mingle with the malt are unreal.”
Beginning today, Deerhammer’s Elevation Apis IV Quad Barrel Finished Bourbon is available at Total Wine & More. This very limited quantity is for sale while supplies last.
For more information about this spirit, Deerhammer, or Elevation Beer Co., contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com.
ABOUT DEERHAMMER
Steeped in Tradition. Crafted in Colorado. Amy and Lenny Eckstein founded Deerhammer in 2010. Drawn to Buena Vista, Colorado by the whitewater currents of the Arkansas River, their passion for whiskey is driven by that same adventurous spirit. As artisans and business owners, Amy and Lenny’s process is defined by a deep curiosity for the history of spirits and a thoughtful analysis of each individual step of the distilling process. Deerhammer's cornerstone contribution to the field of craft spirits, American Single Malt Whiskey, has become the company's flagship product. Deerhammer also distills a Straight Bourbon, Hickory Smoked American Whiskey and Straight Rye Whiskey. Find the distillery online at deerhammer.com.
ABOUT ELEVATION BEER CO.
Proudly operating in the remote mountain town of Poncha Springs (just 17 miles from Monarch Mountain), Elevation Beer Co. is more than just a beer company— we are a family, a community, and a collective of ordinary people doing extraordinary things. Dedicated to creating sustainable, meaningful careers in rural Colorado, we take the preservation of our home as seriously as we do the quality of our beer. Taste our flagship 8 Second Kolsch and a lineup of other usual suspects and seasonals at our tasting room, and in canned 6-packs and specialty bombers across Colorado, Wyoming and soon Utah. Go higher at elevationbeerco.com.
Deerhammer Awarded 2019 Good Food Award for Cultura Cask Finished American Single Malt Whiskey
2019 marks the ninth year of the Good Food Awards and the second consecutive year Deerhammer has been recognized as a winner.
BUENA VISTA, CO— Deerhammer Distilling is the proud recipient of the 2019 Good Food Award in the spirits category for their Progeny Series: Cultura Cask Finished American Single Malt Whiskey. The distillery was recognized with the honors at the organization’s annual awards ceremony at the San Francisco War Memorial & Performing Arts Center on Friday, January 11. This is the second win for Deerhammer Distilling at the Good Food Awards following a 2018 win for their American Single Malt Whiskey.
2019 marks the ninth year of the Good Food Awards and the second consecutive year Deerhammer has been recognized as a winner. This platform recognizes to tasty, authentic, and responsible food producers in 16 categories: beer, spirits, cider, charcuterie, cheese, chocolate, coffee, confections, fish, honey, oils, pantry, pickles, preserves, snacks and elixirs. This year’s competition saw 2035 entries.
Deerhammer’s Cultura Cask Finished American Single Malt was one of 401 finalists for the 2019 awards, which included 22 other finalists in the competition’s spirits category.
“It is a huge honor to take home the Good Food Award for a second time,” explains co-founder Lenny Eckstein. “It’s especially meaningful for us to be recognized this time around for such an unconventional whiskey. So much of the American whiskey landscape is absolutely dominated by the same old standard styles and flavors that have been around forever. We do things differently at Deerhammer, and the Progeny Series whiskey that won this year is a great example of exactly that. We took our 2 year American Single Malt and finished it for an additional year in barrels that we seasoned with Guatemalan cacao nibs from Cultura Craft Chocolate.”
Spirits that meet the criteria for Good Food Awards entry must be made in the United States utilizing ingredients grown and sourced responsibly without the use of synthetic herbicides, pesticides, fungicides or fertilizers as much as possible, free of artificial ingredients, and distilled without GMOs.
For more information about Deerhammer Distilling, contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com.
ABOUT DEERHAMMER DISTILLING
Steeped in Tradition. Crafted in Colorado. Amy and Lenny Eckstein founded Deerhammer in 2010. Drawn to Buena Vista, Colorado by the whitewater currents of the Arkansas River, their passion for whiskey is driven by that same adventurous spirit. As artisans and business owners, Amy and Lenny’s process is defined by a deep curiosity for the history of spirits and a thoughtful analysis of each individual step of the distilling process. Deerhammer's cornerstone contribution to the field of craft spirits, American Single Malt Whiskey, has become the company's flagship product. Deerhammer also distills a Straight Bourbon, Hickory Smoked American Whiskey and Straight Rye Whiskey. Find the distillery online at deerhammer.com.
ABOUT GOOD FOOD AWARDS
The Good Food Awards (GFA) celebrate exceptional American craft food and drink producers who create distinctive, handcrafted, and sustainable products. The GFA brings together thought leaders from every sector of the food industry to choose the most delicious products from all regions of the country in a blind tasting. Products are evaluated by region, allowing the GFA to showcase the rich variety of terroirs of the nation’s food culture, elevating craft producers with the ultimate aim of stimulating local food economies. After the tasting, high-scoring producers are closely vetted for compliance with GFA requirements for sustainable production practices. Winners and runners-up are evaluated by the Good Food Foundation and announced each January at the Awards Ceremony. Learn more at goodfoodfdn.org.
Deerhammer American Single Malt Wins 2018 Good Food Award
Deerhammer Distilling’s American Single Malt was named a winner in the spirits category of the 2018 Good Food Awards today at the organization’s annual awards ceremony
Photo by Kassia Borreson of the Good Food Awards blind tasting
SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Deerhammer Distilling’s American Single Malt was named a winner in the spirits category of the 2018 Good Food Awards today at the organization’s annual awards ceremony at the San Francisco War Memorial & Performing Arts Center.
Now in its eighth year, the Good Food Awards are given to tasty, authentic and responsible food producers in 15 categories: spirits, beer, cider, charcuterie, cheese, chocolate, coffee, confections, preserved fish, honey, oils pantry, pickles, preserves, and elixirs. Deerhammer American Single Malt was one of 279 finalists for the 2018 awards, which include 15 other spirits category finalists. This year’s judges included Summer-Jane Bell, the president of the US Bartender’s Guild, and Sue AnderBois, the director of Food Strategy of the State of Rhode Island, among several other food and beverage professionals and spirits writers.
Good Food Awards entries must be made in the United States, utilize ingredients that are grown and sourced responsibly and grown without the use of synthetic herbicides, pesticides, fungicides or fertilizers as much as possible, free of artificial ingredients, and distilled without GMOs.
"It’s great to finally see the American Single Malt category gain some recognition, but even more awesome to be recognized by the Good Food Awards that takes the judging criteria seriously for American whiskey,” says Deerhammer founder and head distiller Lenny Eckstein. “This award is a huge honor for us.”
For more information about Deerhammer's American Single Malt, or with any other media inquiries, feel free to contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com. For more information about the Good Food Awards, contact Madeline Wheeler at madeline@postcardcomm.com.
ABOUT DEERHAMMER DISTILLING
Steeped in Tradition. Crafted in Colorado.
Amy and Lenny Eckstein founded Deerhammer in 2010. Drawn to Buena Vista, Colorado by the whitewater currents of the Arkansas River, their passion for whiskey is driven by that same adventurous spirit. As artisans and business owners, Amy and Lenny’s process is defined by a deep curiosity for the history of spirits and a thoughtful analysis of each individual step of the distilling process. Deerhammer's cornerstone contribution to the field of American craft spirits, Single Malt Whiskey, has become the company's flagship product. Deerhammer also distills Whitewater Whiskey, Buena Vista Brandy, and Dutch Style Gin. Find the distillery online at deerhammer.com.
ABOUT THE GOOD FOOD AWARDS
The Good Food Awards (GFA) celebrate exceptional American craft food and drink producers who create distinctive, handcrafted, and sustainable products. The GFA brings together thought leaders from every sector of the food industry to choose the most delicious products from all regions of the country in a blind tasting. Products are evaluated by region, allowing the GFA to showcase the rich variety of terroirs of the nation’s food culture, elevating craft producers with the ultimate aim of stimulating local food economies. After the tasting, high-scoring producers are closely vetted for compliance with GFA requirements for sustainable production practices. Winners and runners-up are evaluated by the Good Food Foundation and announced each January at the Awards Ceremony. Learn more at goodfoodawards.org.
Deerhammer American Single Malt Whiskey is a 2018 Good Food Awards Finalist
Deerhammer American Single Malt is among 279 other finalists for the 2018 awards, Finalists were chosen from 2,057 entries.
BUENA VISTA, CO — Deerhammer American Single Malt Whiskey was named a finalist in the spirits category of the 2018 Good Food Awards!
In its eighth year, Good Food Awards are given to tasty, authentic and responsible food producers in 15 categories: spirits, beer, cider, charcuterie, cheese, chocolate, coffee, confections, preserved fish, honey, oils pantry, pickles, preserves, and elixirs. Deerhammer American Single Malt is one of 279 finalists for the 2018 awards, which include 15 other spirits category finalists and seven other finalists across categories originating from the state of Colorado. Finalists were chosen from a pool of 2,057 entries.
Spirits that meet the criteria for Good Food Awards entry can trace all of their ingredients, from base distillate to added ingredients, without the use of genetically modified crops and without artificial additives.
Beginning its life as porter-style malted barley whiskey, Deerhammer's American Single Malt is shaped by open-air fermentation and double distillation through direct-fire copper pot stills. It is aged in charred virgin white oak casks for at least two years in Buena Vista's high alpine climate that maximizes the flavor potential of the mash, due to dramatic temperature shifts that can range from 40-80° in a single day. The result is a complex whiskey with notes of sweet coffee, cacao, caramel and spices.
The winners of the 2018 Good Food Awards will be announced on January 19, 2018.
For more information about Deerhammer contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com. For more information about the Good Food Awards, contact Madeline Wheeler at madeline@postcardcomm.com.
ABOUT DEERHAMMER DISTILLING
Steeped in Tradition. Crafted in Colorado.
Amy and Lenny Eckstein founded Deerhammer in 2010. Drawn to Buena Vista, Colorado by the whitewater currents of the Arkansas River, their passion for whiskey is driven by that same adventurous spirit. As artisans and business owners, Amy and Lenny’s process is defined by a deep curiosity for the history of spirits and a thoughtful analysis of each individual step of the distilling process. Deerhammer's cornerstone contribution to the field of American craft spirits, Single Malt Whiskey, has become the company's flagship product. Deerhammer also distills Whitewater Whiskey, Buena Vista Brandy, and Dutch Style Gin. Find the distillery online at deerhammer.com.
ABOUT THE GOOD FOOD AWARDS
The Good Food Awards (GFA) celebrate exceptional American craft food and drink producers who create distinctive, handcrafted, and sustainable products. The GFA brings together thought leaders from every sector of the food industry to choose the most delicious products from all regions of the country in a blind tasting. Products are evaluated by region, allowing the GFA to showcase the rich variety of terroirs of the nation’s food culture, elevating craft producers with the ultimate aim of stimulating local food economies. After the tasting, high-scoring producers are closely vetted for compliance with GFA requirements for sustainable production practices. Winners and runners-up are evaluated by the Good Food Foundation and announced each January at the Awards Ceremony. Learn more at goodfoodawards.org.
Deerhammer Distilling Introduces Port Cask Finish American Single Malt Whiskey
This whiskey is the first extension of Deerhammer’s flagship American Single Malt, aged for a total of three years both in oak and port wine barrels.
BUENA VISTA, CO — Deerhammer Distilling’s Port Cask Finish American Single Malt is now available in liquor stores across Colorado’s Front Range and at the tasting room in downtown Buena Vista. This whiskey is the first extension of Deerhammer’s flagship American Single Malt, aged for a total of three years both in oak and port wine barrels.
This exclusive Deerhammer expression marries tradition with innovation. The distillery’s American Single Malt has redefined the flavor, and future, of independent American craft whiskey. This whiskey is now routed down the traditional road of fortified wine cask finishing. A selection of Deerhammer’s finest two year matured, American Single Malt Whiskey was selected and transferred to ex-port wine casks for an additional year of maturation time. The results are characterized through nuanced flavors of dark fruit, caramel, and tannins, which enhance the complexity of our mainstay whiskey. Each component has been crafted with the intention of delivering a whiskey to be savored.
Only 2500 bottles of Port Cask Finish American Single Malt Whiskey will be available for purchase.
For more information about Port Cask Finish American Single Malt, or with any other media inquiries, contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com.
ABOUT DEERHAMMER DISTILLING
Steeped in Tradition. Crafted in Colorado.
Amy and Lenny Eckstein founded Deerhammer in 2010. Drawn to Buena Vista, Colorado by the whitewater currents of the Arkansas River, their passion for whiskey is driven by that same adventurous spirit. As artisans and business owners, Amy and Lenny’s process is defined by a deep curiosity for the history of spirits and a thoughtful analysis of each individual step of the distilling process. Deerhammer's cornerstone contribution to the field of American craft spirits, Single Malt Whiskey, has become the company's flagship product. Deerhammer also distills Whitewater Whiskey, Buena Vista Brandy, and Dutch Style Gin. Find the distillery online at deerhammer.com.
Deerhammer Distillery Drives The American Single Malt Whiskey Commission's Mission to Define and Recognize the Single Malt Whiskey Category
Deerhammer's cornerstone contribution to the field of American craft spirits, Single Malt Whiskey, has become the company's flagship product.
The American Single Malt Whiskey Commission (ASMWC) was formed in 2016 in response to the growing need for American-based producers to define the category—both domestically and internationally—in order to protect, educate, promote and ultimately grow it.
Helping to drive the American Single Malt Whiskey category is Deerhammer Distillery in Buena Vista, Colorado. Deerhammer's cornerstone contribution to the field of American craft spirits, Single Malt Whiskey, has become the company's flagship product.
“The various styles of whiskey being produced in this country are already so much broader than the historic bourbon and rye whiskies that we’re most known for,” says Deerhammer owner Lenny Eckstein. “With so many distilleries here in the US already producing an American Single Malt Whiskey, I think it’s important that the standards for the style be recognized so that consumers know why Deerhammer American single malt is different than offerings already coming from other countries - Scotland, Ireland, Japan, and India to name a few.”
MORE DETAILS
Established in 2016, ASMWC serves to establish, promote and protect the category of Single Malt Whiskey. It defines Single Malt Whiskey as spirit made from 100 percent malted barley; distilled entirely at one distillery; mashed, distilled, and matured in the United States of America; matured in oak casks of a capacity not exceeding 700 liters; distilled to no more than 160 (U.S.) proof (80 percent ABV); and bottled at 80 (U.S.) proof or more (40 percent ABV). Find ASMWC online at americansinglemaltwhiskey.org.
Deerhammer is one of ASMWC's more than 50 member producers in the United States. Beginning its life as porter-style malted barley whiskey, Deerhammer's Single Malt is shaped by open-air fermentation and double distillation through direct-fire copper pot stills. It is aged in charred virgin white oak casks for at least two years in Buena Vista's high alpine climate that maximizes the flavor potential of the mash, due to dramatic temperature shifts that can range from 40-80° in a single day. The result is a complex whiskey with notes of sweet coffee, cacao, caramel and spices.
If you would like more information about Deerhammer Distillery or The American Single Malt Whiskey Commission please contact Emily Hutto at coop@radcraftbeer.com.
ABOUT DEERHAMMER DISTILLING
Steeped in Tradition. Crafted in Colorado.
Amy and Lenny Eckstein founded Deerhammer in 2010. Drawn to Buena Vista, Colorado by the whitewater currents of the Arkansas River, their passion for whiskey is driven by that same adventurous spirit. As artisans and business owners, Amy and Lenny’s process is defined by a deep curiosity for the history of spirits and a thoughtful analysis of each individual step of the distilling process. Find the distillery online at deerhammer.com.
Nine Beers To Drink at Collaboration Fest Before They're Gone
Our brewery partners are working with local neighbors and notable out-of-state breweries on #CollabFest17 beers! They've taken time to barrel-age beers in Colorado whiskey and wine barrels, and used a variety of experimental hops and culinary ingredients. Learn more about the beers here.
Collab Fest, here we come.
The fourth annual Collaboration Festival, America's Most Creative Beer Festival, is Saturday, March 25 at Denver's National Western Complex. Here's the lowdown on the #CollabFest17 beers brewed by our partner breweries. If you need more information about the following, give us a shout at coop@radcraftbeer.com.
Representatives from each of Colorado Brewers Guild board member breweries came together on the festival welcome beer Board’s In Session.
"The CBG board wanted to create a beer that embodies the creative spirit of the Colorado craft beer industry," said press release from the Guild. "The result is an easy-drinking pale ale with hints of tropical fruit and citrus called Board’s in Session, an all Colorado beer featuring local malt from Colorado Malting Company, Cascade and Crystal hops from High Wire Hops, and a yeast strain from Brewing Science Institute. This beer comes in at 4.5 percent alcohol by volume, and will open up attendee’s palates to the rest of the festival’s libations. "
CBG Board Breweries include Strange Craft Beer Co, Ska Brewing, Left Hand Brewing Company, Pikes Peak Brewing Company, Funkwerks, Odell Brewing Company, New Belgium Brewing Company, Upslope Brewing Company, Renegade Brewing Company, Bristol Brewing Company and Pagosa Brewing Company.
Strange Craft Beer Company worked with Freetail Brewing out of San Antonio, Texas to make StrangeTail VI: Pale Lager, a smooth-drinking, hop-forward craft Lager brewed with Colorado-grown Chinook and Northwest Lemondrop hops for a thirst-quenching finish.
Lone Tree Brewing Co. and Platt Park Brewing Co. crafted Unicorn Nectar ISB. This collab is a Steam Beer or California Common, one of the first truly American styles of beer. The brewers adding a healthy dose of hop bitterness and flavor. The beer will a clean, full bodied amber with notes of biscuit and a slight touch of sweetness, surrounded by copious amounts of earthy hop flavors.
Station 26. got with the Colorado Brewers Guild and Denver's community of independently owned restaurants EatDenver to craft this food-friendly White IPA brewed with culinary ingredients— mandarin orange, coriander, and fennel. Station 26 also made Diese Scheiße ist Ananas, an imperial pineapple Berliner Weisse, with 4 Hands Brewing from St. Louis, Missouri. Station 26 created a third Collab Fest beer with Des Moines, Iowa's Exile Brewing Company. Space Goose Super Saison is an Imperial Saison re-fermented with gooseberries and dry hopped with Galaxy hops. You heard that right, folks — three collaboration beers!
Locavore Beerworks and Chicago's Aquanaut Brewing aged their Cherry Hammer, an American Brown Ale, on cherries and cocoa nibs in Deerhammer Single Malt Whiskey barrels.
Spice Trade Brewing collaborated with Denver's new Cheluna Brewing Company at the Stanley Marketplace on the Empress Mora Imperial Stout, a 10% ABV Imperial Stout aged in Infinite Monkey Theorem Cabernet Sauvignon barrels with blackberries. The addition of simple culinary ingredients added complexity to this rich dessert beer. Notes of grape and dark fruit are prominent, and complemented by the beer's dark malt profile.
The Golden breweries usually get together for at least one Collab Fest beer. Barrels + Bottles Brewery, Golden City Brewing, and Golden's new gluten-free brewery Holidaily Brewing made this year's collaboration, which might have one of the better names at the fest. The Beard, The Fro & The Ponytail is named after a distinctive feature of each of our brewer’s. The brewer’s worked together to select one style of hops each would work with. They each brewed a batch at their own facility. The final product is a blend of all three beers in a delicious hop-focused, smooth drinking Pale Ale named after their super-coiffed 'dos.
Didn't get tickets to the festival?
Breweries across the state will host special tappings of their Collaboration Fest beers on Friday, March 24 as part of the Statewide Collaboration Fest Tailgate. Visit coloradobeer.org for a list of tailgate events, and a comprehensive guide for Colorado Craft Beer Week events.