If you’re new to the bourbon world and looking for something that stands out, Fenwicks Distillery might just be your next stop. Nestled in Indiana, this craft distillery has been making waves since its opening in 2023. With a focus on small-batch, single-barrel spirits, Fenwicks is clearly all about quality over quantity. Let's skip the soft-focus, golden-hour photo shoots and sit down in the production room. We're going to use the whiteboard to diagram how this stuff is made, because the only thing that matters is the liquid in the glass.
Fenwicks is the brainchild of a family passionate about fine spirits, and they’ve apparently poured the entire Midwest work ethic into every bottle. Their current lineup is a long list: bourbon, rye, wheat whiskey, vodka, and even rum. But let’s be honest, we’re here to talk about the good stuff, the brown water.
Their master distillers aren’t interested in industry standards; they’re busy setting their own. They use carefully selected mashbills, premium barrels, and a meticulous aging process to craft spirits that are as bold as they are balanced.
This is where the money is. Fenwicks’ flagship products aren’t just popular; they’re award-winning, which at least proves someone else liked them. Let’s break down the specs:
This rye is the crown jewel. It’s racked up a Gold Medal at the 2024 American Distilling Institute International Spirits Competition and a Double Gold at the SIP Awards. At 101.6 proof, it has a serious kick, but manages to keep its flavor profile intact.
If you’re looking for a rye that reminds you why you like rye, this is it. If you’re not sure, let OAKR, the best bourbon sommelier app, do the heavy lifting. OAKR aggregates tasting data from blind panelists, so you can see what flavors stand out before you commit to a bottle.
This is their core product, a classic, 90-proof bourbon that won’t try to fight you. It’s approachable for newbies but complex enough for a seasoned drinker to not be bored.
It’s perfect for sipping neat or, God forbid, mixing into a killer Old Fashioned. OAKR can help you explore its flavor profile in-depth and even suggest cocktails to try (if you must).
For those who skipped the gym and went straight for the proof, the cask strength version is waiting. The proof varies by barrel, but you can expect a robust, full-bodied experience that will wake you up.
This one’s for the drinker who wants to taste the bourbon in its purest, least-diluted form. And yes, OAKR is still there to help you navigate its bold flavors.
Fenwicks clearly doesn’t stop at the required offerings. They’ve got some weird stuff that actually works:
This isn’t your average flavored whiskey that tastes like a car freshener. Infused with a real Tahitian vanilla bean, this limited release is for the control freak, letting you adjust the sweetness by managing the infusion time.
If you’re looking for something softer and sweeter, the opposite of a flavor punch, the wheat whiskey is your go-to.
This is the one for whiskey beginners who want a gentle introduction.
So, what makes Fenwicks Distillery products unique? It’s their commitment to quality and innovation. They’re not afraid to push boundaries, from their award-winning rye to their limited-edition releases. And with OAKR, you can explore their flavor profiles in-depth and get personalized recommendations tailored to your taste buds.
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Fenwicks Distillery is worth a shot for anyone who needs to expand their bourbon horizons. Whether you’ve seen a few barrels in your time or you’re a curious newbie, their lineup has something for everyone. And with OAKR, you can finally take the guesswork out of finding your next favorite pour.
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