Blending

Nate Randall, founder and distiller at California’s Hinterhaus, describes the happy accident and lessons learned in crafting ACSA’s reigning Innovation Award winner.

Like big, brown Easter eggs that contain surprises unique to each producer, some unusually shaped oak vessels for aging and blending are appearing in a few distilleries. While they aren’t for everyone, their owners tend to praise their impressive look and small footprint.

Blending on the small-batch scale, craft-whiskey makers have limitations that the bigger producers don’t have—but they also have distinct advantages. Heeding advice from accomplished blenders, let’s look closer at how to blend whiskeys mindfully, with art and with purpose.

Thoughtfully applying the science and craft of blending offers an avenue for distilleries to elevate their products—but it begins with a serious devotion to sensory analysis.