For Day Sixteen of the 30 Days of Bourbon, I’m exploring a pour from Kings County Distillery, New York City’s oldest operating whiskey distillery. Founded by Colin Spoelman and David Haskell, Kings County has been at the forefront of the urban craft distilling movement since 2010, The distillery is located in the historic Brooklyn Navy Yard, bringing whiskey production back to the city for the first time since Prohibition.
Kings County is a great example of what small, grain-to-glass distilleries are doing to push the boundaries of craft whiskey. While many distilleries focus on using local grains and traditional methods, Kings County brings a unique New York twist to the process. They source organic corn and malted barley from New York State farms, creating a distinct flavor profile that reflects the region’s terroir. What sets Kings County apart is their use of Scottish-style copper pot stills. These stills, with their taller necks and bulbous shape, encourage more reflux, leading to a smoother, more nuanced spirit with refined and complex flavors. The increased reflux helps separate heavier compounds, resulting in a cleaner distillate with elegant notes. This, combined with their focus on small-batch production and aging in smaller barrels, gives their whiskey a character all its own.
My pour for today is a Single Barrel #4473 from Kings County, aged for 6 years and 303 days and bottled at a bold 64.9% ABV. This extended aging period in small barrels gives the whiskey an exceptional depth of flavor. On the nose, you get rich notes of caramel, vanilla, and fresh oak, with hints of dark chocolate and roasted nuts. The palate is where this single barrel shines, offering layers of toffee, dark fruit, and oak with a distinct smokiness. There’s also a touch of cinnamon and clove adding warmth and complexity. The finish is long and warming, with lingering notes of charred oak and caramelized sugar.
Kings County’s single barrels provide a unique glimpse into the distillery’s craft. Each one offers a different experience, showcasing the nuances of the individual barrels. Barrel #4473 stands out not just for its high proof but for its ability to balance intensity with depth and complexity. It’s a testament to the innovative spirit and dedication to quality that Kings County represents.
If you haven’t tried Kings County’s offerings yet, they’re worth seeking out. Their approach to urban distilling, combined with their commitment to traditional methods and local ingredients, makes them a standout in the world of craft whiskey.
Distiller: King’s County Distillery
Mash Bill: Unspecified
Age: 6 years, 303 days
Proof: 129.8 (64.9% ABV)
Availability: Limited release
