Stranahan’s names its first head blender

Justin Aden has been appointed by Stranahan’s Colorado Whiskey as the distillery’s inaugural head blender.

Described by the brand as a ‘whiskey man through and through’, Aden brings nearly 14 years of industry experience to the role and is tasked with presiding over the blending, distilling and ageing of Stranahan’s products.

Commenting on his new role, Aden said it’s an ”honour to be entrusted to take the reins as the first head blender” of the Denver-based distillery.

“Working alongside our veteran distillery team to advance Stranahan’s legacy as the leader of American single malt at this seminal moment for the category is the privilege of a whiskey maker’s career,” he added.

Prior to the appointment, Aden has held positions such as distillery operator and research scientist at Michigan State University’s Artisan Distilling Program, as well as head distiller and production manager at Headframe Spirits in Montana. Most recently, he was distiller, blender and head of operations at Valentine Distilling Company in Detroit.

Stranahan’s believe Aden’s vision and know-how will be essential to developing the brand’s exclusives and selecting premium barrels for its annual Diamond Peak limited edition release, among others.

His ‘unique scientific knowledge and prolific craft spirits experience’ also make him an ideal fit for the team.

Citing Nielsen data, Stranahan’s claims to be the leading single malt whiskey producer in the US.

At this year’s edition of The American Whisky Masters – held over the summer – Stranahan’s saw plenty of success, picking up a slew of medals including a Master for its Diamond Peak expression.

Other recent hires and moves in the whiskey world have seen Stranahan’s former head distiller Owen Martin join Angel’s Envy, while Maureen Robinson took over as master blender for Kentucky Owl.