Introduction: Burning Chair Bourbon is a name that resonates deeply within the world of whiskey enthusiasts. Crafted with precision and a deep respect for tradition, this bourbon has quickly garnered a reputation for its distinct flavor profile and exceptional quality. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon connoisseur or a curious newcomer, Burning Chair Bourbon offers an experience worth exploring.
The Origins of Burning Chair Bourbon
The Birthplace of Excellence
Burning Chair Bourbon hails from the renowned Savage & Cooke Distillery, located on Mare Island in Northern California. This distillery, founded by Dave Phinney, a celebrated winemaker turned whiskey maker, has been pivotal in creating some of the most innovative spirits in recent years. Phinney’s expertise in the wine industry has significantly influenced his approach to crafting bourbon, emphasizing quality over quantity.
The Inspiration Behind the Name
The name “Burning Chair” evokes a sense of boldness and intensity, much like the bourbon itself. It symbolizes the distillery’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of traditional bourbon making while respecting the craft’s deep-rooted history. This combination of innovation and tradition is what makes Burning Chair Bourbon truly unique.
The Crafting Process: Where Art Meets Science
Selecting the Grains
The journey of Burning Chair Bourbon begins with the careful selection of grains. The distillery uses a blend of corn, wheat, and malted barley, each chosen for its ability to contribute specific flavors and textures to the final product. The corn provides a sweet, creamy base, while the wheat adds a subtle softness. The malted barley brings complexity, enhancing the bourbon’s overall depth.
Mashing and Fermentation
Once the grains are selected, they are milled and mixed with water to create a mash. This mash is then fermented, a process that converts the sugars in the grains into alcohol. Burning Chair Bourbon is fermented in small batches, allowing for greater control over the flavors that develop during this crucial stage.
Distillation: The Heart of Bourbon Making
Distillation is where the magic happens. The fermented mash is heated in copper pot stills, a traditional method that helps to concentrate the flavors while removing impurities. The result is a high-proof spirit, rich in character and ready for aging.
Aging in Charred Oak Barrels
After distillation, Burning Chair Bourbon is aged in new American oak barrels that have been charred on the inside. This charring process caramelizes the sugars in the wood, imparting deep, rich flavors like vanilla, caramel, and spice to the bourbon. The aging process takes place in the unique climate of Mare Island, where the temperature fluctuations help the bourbon absorb the flavors of the wood, creating a balanced and nuanced profile.
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Flavors
Appearance
Burning Chair Bourbon greets you with a deep amber color, a visual testament to its time spent aging in charred oak barrels. The richness of its hue hints at the complexity that lies within each sip.
Nose
The aroma of Burning Chair Bourbon is both inviting and intriguing. You’ll notice a bouquet of sweet caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak, with subtle hints of dried fruit and spice. This combination creates a warm and comforting olfactory experience that draws you in.
Palate
On the palate, Burning Chair Bourbon delivers a full-bodied experience. The initial sip is rich and smooth, with flavors of caramel and vanilla taking center stage. As you continue to savor it, notes of dark chocolate, cinnamon, and dried cherries emerge, adding layers of complexity. The finish is long and warming, with a gentle spice that lingers on the tongue, inviting you to take another sip.
Finish
The finish of Burning Chair Bourbon is both satisfying and memorable. It leaves a lasting impression with its blend of sweet and spicy notes, balanced by a subtle smokiness that echoes the bourbon’s name.
Pairing Burning Chair Bourbon: Enhancing the Experience
Food Pairings
Pairing bourbon with food can elevate both the drink and the meal, creating a harmonious dining experience. Burning Chair Bourbon’s rich and complex flavors make it a versatile companion to a variety of dishes.
- Grilled Meats: The caramel and spice notes in Burning Chair Bourbon complement the smoky flavors of grilled meats, such as steak, pork chops, or lamb.
- Dark Chocolate: The deep, bitter-sweetness of dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the bourbon’s vanilla and cherry notes, creating a decadent treat.
- Cheese: Aged cheeses, particularly cheddar or gouda, can enhance the bourbon’s creamy mouthfeel and balance its sweetness.
Cocktail Recipes
While Burning Chair Bourbon is exceptional on its own, it also shines in a variety of classic and modern cocktails.
Old Fashioned
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz Burning Chair Bourbon
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
- Orange peel for garnish
- Instructions:
- Place the sugar cube in a glass and saturate it with bitters.
- Add a splash of water and muddle until the sugar is dissolved.
- Fill the glass with ice and add the bourbon.
- Stir gently and garnish with an orange peel.
Manhattan
- Ingredients:
- 2 oz Burning Chair Bourbon
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
- Cherry for garnish
- Instructions:
- Combine the bourbon, vermouth, and bitters in a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir well and strain into a chilled glass.
- Garnish with a cherry.
The Legacy of Dave Phinney: Innovating Tradition
A Visionary in the Spirits Industry
Dave Phinney’s journey from winemaker to whiskey maker is a story of passion and innovation. His ability to transfer his knowledge of winemaking into the world of bourbon has resulted in spirits that are both unique and true to the traditions of bourbon making. Phinney’s commitment to quality and creativity is evident in every bottle of Burning Chair Bourbon.
Awards and Recognition
Since its release, Burning Chair Bourbon has received numerous accolades from industry experts and enthusiasts alike. These awards not only validate the craftsmanship behind this bourbon but also highlight its growing reputation as a top-tier spirit.
Why Burning Chair Bourbon Stands Out
Innovation and Tradition in Harmony
What sets Burning Chair Bourbon apart from other bourbons is its unique blend of innovation and tradition. While it respects the time-honored processes of bourbon making, it also incorporates modern techniques and a distinctive Californian climate that adds a unique twist to the final product. This balance of old and new creates a bourbon that is both familiar and exciting.
A Commitment to Quality
Every step of the Burning Chair Bourbon production process is executed with a focus on quality. From the selection of the grains to the aging in charred oak barrels, each detail is meticulously controlled to ensure that the final product meets the highest standards. This commitment to excellence is what makes Burning Chair Bourbon a favorite among discerning whiskey drinkers.
The Perfect Occasions to Enjoy Burning Chair Bourbon
Celebrations and Special Occasions
Burning Chair Bourbon is an excellent choice for celebrating life’s milestones. Its rich, complex flavors make it a fitting toast for weddings, anniversaries, and other significant events.
Casual Gatherings
While Burning Chair Bourbon is perfect for special occasions, it’s also well-suited for more casual settings. Enjoying a glass with friends around a bonfire, at a backyard barbecue, or during a quiet evening at home can elevate the experience.
Gifting Burning Chair Bourbon
Looking for a gift for the bourbon lover in your life? Burning Chair Bourbon makes an exceptional choice. Its quality, reputation, and unique story make it a gift that’s sure to be appreciated.
Where to Buy Burning Chair Bourbon
Online Retailers
Burning Chair Bourbon is available through various online retailers, making it accessible to bourbon enthusiasts across the country. Websites like [Insert retailer here] offer convenient shipping options, ensuring that a bottle can be delivered right to your door.
Local Liquor Stores
Many local liquor stores also carry Burning Chair Bourbon. It’s worth checking with your favorite store to see if they have it in stock, or if they can special order it for you.
How to Store and Serve Burning Chair Bourbon
Proper Storage Tips
To preserve the quality of Burning Chair Bourbon, it’s important to store it properly. Keep the bottle in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. This will help maintain the bourbon’s flavors over time.
Serving Suggestions
Burning Chair Bourbon is best enjoyed at room temperature, either neat or with a splash of water to open up its flavors. If you prefer your bourbon chilled, consider using a whiskey stone instead of ice to avoid diluting the drink.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What makes Burning Chair Bourbon different from other bourbons?
Burning Chair Bourbon is crafted using a unique blend of traditional methods and modern innovations. It’s aged in new American oak barrels in Northern California’s distinctive climate, giving it a rich, complex flavor profile that sets it apart from other bourbons.
2. Who is Dave Phinney?
Dave Phinney is a renowned winemaker and the founder of Savage & Cooke Distillery. He is the creative force behind Burning Chair Bourbon, applying his extensive experience in winemaking to the art of bourbon making.
3. What grains are used in Burning Chair Bourbon?
Burning Chair Bourbon is made from a blend of corn, wheat, and malted barley. This combination of grains contributes to the bourbon’s sweet, creamy, and complex flavor profile.
4. How should Burning Chair Bourbon be served?
Burning Chair Bourbon can be enjoyed neat, with a splash of water, or in a cocktail. It’s best served at room temperature to fully appreciate its rich flavors.
5. Where can I buy Burning Chair Bourbon?
Burning Chair Bourbon is available at various online retailers and local liquor stores. Check with your preferred store for availability.
Conclusion: The Lasting Appeal of Burning Chair Bourbon
Burning Chair Bourbon is more than just a drink; it’s an experience. From its origins in the Savage & Cooke Distillery to the final sip, this bourbon captures the essence of craftsmanship, innovation, and tradition. Whether you’re enjoying it on a special occasion or sharing it with friends, Burning Chair Bourbon offers a rich, complex, and satisfying experience that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
