Are you on the hunt for a smooth and flavorful bourbon whiskey that won’t break the bank?
Look no further than Old Elk Bourbon.
With its unique flavor profile and exceptional slow-cut proofing process, this bourbon stands out from the rest.
But is it hard to find?
In this article, we’ll explore the availability of Old Elk Bourbon and why it’s worth seeking out.
So sit back, pour yourself a glass, and let’s dive in.
Is Old Elk Bourbon Hard To Find?
Old Elk Bourbon may not be as widely available as some of the more mainstream bourbon brands, but it’s not necessarily hard to find either.
While it may not be stocked at every liquor store, it can be found at many specialty liquor stores and online retailers.
In fact, many customers have reported purchasing Old Elk Bourbon online with ease and receiving their bottles promptly and carefully packaged.
So while it may require a bit of searching, Old Elk Bourbon is definitely worth the effort to find.
The Origins Of Old Elk Bourbon
Old Elk Bourbon has a rich history that dates back to 1880 when the Stoll, Clay & Co. Distillery was established just north of Lexington, Kentucky. The brand was created by Richard P. Stoll, Henry C. Clay, and James S. Stoll and was eventually renamed Stoll, Vanatta & Co. in 1885 after Clay left the company.
In 1888, Stoll, Vanatta & Co. registered the Old Elk trademark for Bourbon and Rye. The distillery later became known as the Edge Cliff Distillery. During Prohibition, the A. Ph. Stitzel Distillery acquired the brand and bottled Old Elk as a “medicinal spirit”. After Prohibition, the brand was produced by the Stitzel-Weller Distillery until the company was sold to Norton-Simon in 1972.
Unfortunately, Norton-Simon abandoned the brand and Old Elk laid dormant until it was revived by new owners in 2013. Entrepreneur Curt Richardson decided to give craft distilling a try and founded Old Elk Distillery with his team, some of whom had previously worked for Otterbox and Blue Ocean.
Currently, Old Elk Bourbon originates from three different distilleries located in Indiana, New York, and Colorado but is intended to be produced exclusively by Old Elk Distillery in the future. The company is currently in the final stages of opening a 35,000 square foot distillery and aging warehouse in Fort Collins, Colorado targeted for completion at the end of 2019.
The flagship product of Old Elk Bourbon is a unique recipe with a mashbill consisting of 51% corn, 34% malted barley, and 15% rye. This leads to a smoother sip than most whiskeys due to the quadrupling of malted barley which typically only makes up about 5-10% of a typical mashbill.
Old Elk Bourbon may not be as well-known as some other bourbon brands but its rich history and unique recipe make it a must-try for any whiskey enthusiast.
The Distinct Flavor Profile Of Old Elk Bourbon
Old Elk Bourbon is known for its unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other bourbons. The high malted barley content in the mashbill creates a light and sweet pour, with notes of vanilla, cinnamon, and honey. The spicy essence of clove from the rye adds an extra layer of complexity to the flavor, while the classic rich bourbon character from the corn results in a robust and smooth taste profile.
On the nose, Old Elk Bourbon has a sweet and light aroma with notes of cinnamon, oak spice, and caramel latte. The palate is velvety smooth, with flavors of vanilla, cherry, and a mildly medicinal note. The malted barley gives it a uniquely cereal character, which blends well with the bourbon notes of oak spice, peppercorns, and caramel chips. The malt whiskey side softens things up with flavors of Malt-O-Meal hot cereal, table syrup, and cinnamon stick.
The finish is where Old Elk Bourbon truly shines. It leaves a rich and flavorful impact with notes of seasoned oak, espresso grounds, and wet tobacco. The rye notes of cinnamon and cloves add a nice zing for complexity, while the sweetness of brown sugar and baking spice lingers on the tongue.
The Slow-Cut Proofing Process: What Makes Old Elk Bourbon Unique
One of the key factors that sets Old Elk Bourbon apart from other bourbons is their proprietary Slow-Cut proofing process.
Traditionally, when alcohol is proofed, water is added until the desired strength is achieved. However, this process can generate heat, which can burn off some of the lighter and finer bourbon flavors.
Old Elk Bourbon takes a different approach. They add proofing water over a period of several weeks or more, as compared to the more typical 24-48 hour process. This Slow-Cut method allows the bourbon to retain all of its flavors and smoothness, resulting in a truly unique taste experience.
Old Elk Bourbon also uses four times more malted barley than conventional bourbon recipes, which contributes to the rich and smooth flavor profile of their blended straight bourbon whiskey.
The Slow-Cut proofing process and unique blend of ingredients makes Old Elk Bourbon stand out in a crowded market of bourbon brands. It’s a testament to their commitment to quality and innovation in the distilling process.
Where To Find Old Elk Bourbon: A Comprehensive Guide
If you’re on the hunt for Old Elk Bourbon, there are a few places you can start your search.
Firstly, it’s worth checking out specialty liquor stores in your area. These stores often carry a wider selection of unique and craft spirits, including Old Elk Bourbon. You can use online directories or apps to locate specialty liquor stores near you.
If you’re unable to find Old Elk Bourbon at a local store, online retailers may be your best bet. Many online retailers offer a wide selection of craft spirits, and Old Elk Bourbon is no exception. Be sure to check the shipping policies and delivery times before making a purchase.
Additionally, Old Elk Distillery has a “Find Our Bourbon” feature on their website that allows you to search for retailers and restaurants that carry their products. This can be a helpful tool if you’re looking to try Old Elk Bourbon at a local bar or restaurant.
Lastly, it’s worth noting that Old Elk Distillery is currently in the process of opening their own distillery and aging warehouse in Fort Collins, Colorado. Once the distillery is fully operational, they will be producing their own bourbon exclusively. So if you’re unable to find Old Elk Bourbon now, keep an eye out for future releases from their own distillery.
Why Old Elk Bourbon Is Worth The Hunt
Old Elk Bourbon is worth the hunt for several reasons. Firstly, it boasts a unique flavor profile that sets it apart from other bourbons on the market. Unlike most MGP or MGP blended products, Old Elk Bourbon does not have a flavor or profile that can be easily traced back to Indiana. This is due to the fact that the bourbon is crafted using a custom mashbill, with a higher malted barley content and lower corn content than most bourbons.
Additionally, Old Elk Bourbon has received numerous awards and accolades for its quality and taste. The brand’s blended straight bourbon has been recognized as one of the best bourbons in the world, and their cask-finished series has introduced new levels of flavor to the market.
Furthermore, Old Elk Distillery is known for its commitment to innovation and quality. The founder, entrepreneur Curt Richardson, worked closely with master distiller Greg Metze to create a bourbon that was both smooth and easy to drink, while also being unique and original. This dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail is evident in every bottle of Old Elk Bourbon.
Finally, while Old Elk Bourbon may not be as widely available as some other bourbons, this only adds to its allure. The fact that it requires a bit of searching and effort to find makes it all the more special and coveted by whiskey enthusiasts.
