When it comes to seeking a morning boost, whiskey enthusiasts often turn to coffee for that invigorating jolt. However, Colorado's forward-thinking distillery, Stranahan's, challenges the norm by fusing the worlds of coffee and whiskey in a truly unique way.
In its journey of experimentation, Stranahan's has already delighted whiskey aficionados with whiskey finished in tequila barrels and a range of captivating releases under its Distiller’s Experimental Series. Yet, the 10th installment stands out as particularly intriguing. Stranahan's masterfully blends its renowned whiskey with cold brew coffee sourced from the local Cooper Door Coffee roastery.
Available exclusively at the esteemed Colorado distillery for a limited period, this exceptional offering begins with the foundation of Stranahan's American Single Malt—a 6-year, 2-month aged expression. The aging process takes place in Virgin Oak barrels, meticulously charred to a level 3 intensity, involving approximately 35 seconds of charring.
What sets this creation apart is the infusion of Cooper Door's “Four Sisters” espresso blend, a coffee characterized by beans harvested from three distinct regions: Brazil, Guatemala, and Colombia. Cooper Door Coffee is a unique gem in Denver, being the city's sole 100 percent female-owned roaster.
The infusion of coffee adds a layer of richness to the whiskey, a departure from Stranahan's conventional practice of using Eldorado Spring Water to achieve the desired proof. At 94 proof, the whiskey embodies a sumptuous, roasted essence.
The nose reveals enchanting notes of sweetness and nuttiness, while the palate showcases an exquisite dance of flavors, including the intriguing combination of pink peppercorn and velvety chocolate ganache.
As the experience culminates, a delightful marzipan finish lingers, inviting enthusiasts to savor each subsequent sip.
While Stranahan's whiskeys are renowned for their quality and innovation, they tend to disappear from the shelves swiftly. Given that this unique release is exclusively available at the distillery itself, embarking on a pilgrimage to the West is undoubtedly worthwhile for those who seek the finest expressions of whiskey craftsmanship.
About Stranahan's Distillery
Stranahan's is a distinguished American whiskey distillery located in Denver, Colorado. Renowned for its commitment to quality, innovation, and craftsmanship, Stranahan's has earned a well-deserved reputation as a pioneer in the world of craft distilling.
The distillery takes its name from its founder, George Stranahan, who, along with Jess Graber, established Stranahan's in 2004. Initially, they began by producing small batches of handcrafted whiskey, focusing on creating a unique American single malt spirit that deviated from the more traditional bourbon and rye styles.
Stranahan's approach to whiskey-making is marked by several distinctive features:
American Single Malt: Stranahan's is renowned for its American Single Malt Whiskey, which stands apart from the more common grain-forward bourbons and ryes. This style highlights malted barley as the primary grain, resulting in a nuanced and flavorful spirit.
Local Sourcing: The distillery places a strong emphasis on sourcing local ingredients whenever possible. This commitment to locality extends beyond the grains to partnerships with local artisans, such as Cooper Door Coffee, as seen in their experimental releases.
Experimental Series: Stranahan's embraces experimentation, as evidenced by their Distiller's Experimental Series. This collection features limited-edition releases that explore innovative aging techniques, barrel finishes, and flavor profiles, pushing the boundaries of traditional whiskey-making.
Barrel Aging: The maturation process plays a pivotal role in Stranahan's whiskey production. The distillery utilizes virgin oak barrels with a unique charring technique, contributing to the distinct flavor profile of their whiskeys.
Collaborations: Stranahan's is known for its collaborative spirit, partnering with local businesses and artisans to create special releases that showcase the creative spirit of the Denver community.
Visitor Experience: Stranahan's offers visitors an immersive experience through guided tours of their distillery, where guests can witness the whiskey-making process firsthand, learn about their history, and enjoy tastings of their exceptional spirits.
Limited Availability: Stranahan's releases are often in high demand and limited supply, contributing to their exclusivity and desirability among whiskey enthusiasts.
Over the years, Stranahan's has garnered numerous awards and accolades for its innovative approach to whiskey-making and its dedication to producing exceptional spirits. With its focus on quality, local partnerships, and a commitment to pushing the boundaries of craft distilling, Stranahan's continues to captivate the palates of whiskey connoisseurs and novices alike.
