Buzzard’s Roost Distillery Spotlight

Buzzard’s Roost Distillery is a new (but incredibly excellent) establishment in the world of spirits, known for its commitment to crafting exceptional bourbons and its innovative distillation process. Let’s explore some key aspects of Buzzard’s Roost Whiskey, including its history, standout features, spirits, distillation process, availability, team members, events and classes, and their operating hours.

When Did Buzzard’s Roost Open?

Buzzard’s Roost Distillery opened its doors in 2017, making its mark in the world of whiskey relatively recently. Despite its relatively young age, it has rapidly gained recognition for its unique approach to bourbon production. While some distilleries take many years to build up a repertoire of quality, aged spirits, Buzzard’s Roost has dialed in on a couple of spirits, making a name for themselves very quickly.

What Makes Buzzard’s Roost Distillery Special?

What sets Buzzard’s Roost Distillery apart is its dedication to innovation within the tradition of bourbon-making. They are known for their focus on barrel finishing, which involves aging their bourbons in a variety of specially selected barrels, such as sherry casks and port pipes. 

This meticulous attention to the aging process results in a diverse range of flavor profiles and a rich complexity that appeals to both seasoned bourbon enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

Spirits Produced By Buzzard’s Roost Distillery:

Buzzard’s Roost Distillery produces a range of spirits, with their bourbon being the star of the show. Three standout spirits from their portfolio are:

Buzzard’s Roost Single Barrel Bourbon: This bourbon is a testament to the distillery’s dedication to craftsmanship. It boasts a deep amber color and offers a symphony of flavors, including notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. It has a robust and full-bodied character with a smooth, lingering finish.

Buzzard’s Roost Rye: For those who appreciate the spicy and bold nature of rye whiskey, Buzzard’s Roost Rye is a treat. It’s characterized by its peppery and fruity notes, with hints of cinnamon and toasted oak. This rye is a perfect choice for those seeking a more intense and complex whiskey experience.

Buzzard’s Roost Toasted Barrel Rye:Aged 3 years with a 105 proof, this rye whiskey is made from a mash bill of 95% rye and 5% malted barley. The unique toasted-only barrels, designed to emphasize sweetness, smoke, and “confectionery” flavors, give it a nose-heavy profile with richness and hints of wood and smoke. Despite its high proof, it’s smooth and creamy, appealing to new whiskey drinkers with its dominant sweet flavor profile.

Buzzard’s Roost’s Distillation Process

Buzzard’s Roost Distillery takes a meticulous approach to their distillation process. They use a combination of traditional copper pot stills and column stills, allowing for precise control over the distillation and fractions extracted. The key to their unique flavor profiles lies in the barrel finishing process. By experimenting with different types of barrels and aging times, they create bourbons and ryes with distinct taste profiles that showcase the influence of the wood.

Availability and Ordering:

Buzzard’s Roost spirits can be found in select liquor stores and bars across the United States. Additionally, the distillery offers the convenience of online ordering through their website, making their products accessible to a nearly nationwide audience. Some states will not allow delivery of alcoholic beverages, though, so double check the map at The Buzzard’s Roost Shop before you commit to ordering online. 

The Buzzard’s Roost Distillery Crew

The distillery is led by a passionate team, with two key figures at the forefront:

Jason Brauner: He has been involved with Bourbon’s Bistro since 2005, where he developed a single barrel program working alongside Kentucky’s leading master distillers. This experience, coupled with his passion for whiskey, led him to transition from selling to making whiskey. He is highly respected in the industry, evidenced by commendations from established distillers like Jim Rutledge​​.

Judith Hollis Jones: As the CEO of Buzzard’s Roost, Judith brings over 20 years of experience from senior executive positions in the food industry. Her business acumen is vital in managing the business side of the distillery, including supply, distribution, and investor relations. Furthermore, her culinary expertise contributes to developing food and whiskey pairings and unique cocktail recipes. Born and raised in Kentucky, she has a profound appreciation for whiskey heritage​​.

Both Judy Hollis Jones and Jason Brauner started Buzzard’s Roost with just three barrels back in 2019, and their dedication has been instrumental in the distillery’s growth and the establishment of its physical location in Louisville’s bourbon district​​.

Events and Classes at Buzzard’s Roost:

Buzzard’s Roost Distillery offers a variety of events and classes for those interested. Notably, acclaimed bourbon expert Susan Reigler has developed three whiskey classes, and author and whisky educator Heather Wibbels created three hands-on cocktail classes, including tastings, taught by trained Whiskey Guides. 

One of the classes focuses on crafting an Old Fashioned, exploring the flavors of Buzzard’s Roost whiskies and various mixers. Additionally, there are classes on the barrels and maturation process, the science behind distillation and whiskey, and a unique class pairing chocolate and bourbon.

For the most current information on class schedules and event details, it’s best to visit Buzzard’s Roost Distillery’s website or follow their social media channels.

Buzzard’s Roost Location and Operating Hours:

Buzzard’s Roost Distillery, located at 624 W. Main St., Louisville, KY, welcomes visitors with varied hours throughout the week. 

Open on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 11 AM to 6 PM, the distillery provides ample time for mid-week visits. On Tuesdays, the distillery is closed. On Fridays and Saturdays, hours extend from 11 AM to 8 PM. Sundays, they are open from 1 PM to 6 PM. 

Buzzard’s Roost Distillery: Young But Rapidly Rising

Buzzard’s Roost Distillery is a distillery that is committed to innovation in barrel finishing. Along with their dedication to crafting exceptional spirits, this has earned them a solid reputation (despite their newness to the scene) among whiskey enthusiasts. 

Whether you’re looking for a rich and complex bourbon or a bold rye, Buzzard’s Roost has something special to offer. Visit their website for ordering options, keep an eye out for their events, and consider taking a tour to learn more about their unique approach to distillation!

So, what are you waiting for? Schedule a tour or pick up a bottle today!