Virginia Distillery blends Bourbon and American single malt
The Split Barrel Project is a new series from Virginia Distillery Co, with the first release combining Kentucky straight Bourbon with American single malt (ASM).
The distillery claims the release is the ‘first’ of its kind, describing it as a ‘genuine landmark moment for American whiskey’.
Project #1 is a 50:50 mix of Bourbon and ASM, with the former being sourced from Kentucky’s Bardstown Bourbon Company. This liquid has a mash bill of 75% corn, 15% rye, and 10% malted barley and has been aged for four years.
Meanwhile, the ASM component comes from Virginia Distillery Co and was aged exclusively in first-fill ex-Bourbon barrels.
The 45% ABV release is described as having a ‘bold yet approachable profile’ and is aimed at inviting Bourbon drinkers into the growing ASM category.
On the nose, the whiskey offers aromas of ‘warm oak, vanilla, and caramel’, followed by ‘rich malt, stone fruit, and chocolate’ on the palate.
“The Split Barrel Project is unlike anything else on a back bar or retail shelf,” said Gareth Moore, CEO of Virginia Distillery Co. “We’re creating a gateway into ASM by meeting Bourbon drinkers where they are, while still showcasing the depth and character that defines our whisky. It’s a bold step forward in growing the category.”
The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) officially recognised ASM as a whiskey category in December 2024. To qualify, whiskeys must be made from 100% malted barley produced in the US and be distilled at a single site.
The Split Barrel Project #1 (Bardstown) will be available from May in limited quantities from Virginia Distillery Co’s website and select retailers nationwide, priced at US$44.99.
Future editions will involve new distillery collaborations.
As well as producing its own whiskeys, Virginia Distillery Co has a third-party distilling arm, with a particular focus on ASM.
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