To celebrate World Whisk(e)y Day on 17th May, we’re shining the spotlight on our favourite Bourbon: Iron Wheel.

What is whisky/whiskey?

Whisky/whiskey is a distilled spirit made from fermenting grains, most commonly barley, but also corn, rye and wheat. The spirit is usually aged in wooden barrels like oak which imparts colour, flavours and can mellow out the alcohol over time.

What’s the difference between Bourbon and other whiskies?

Bourbon is a protected style of whiskey that can only be made in the Unites States, and from a minimum of 51% corn. This is very different to other styles of Whisky like Scotch, which can only be made in Scotland and is predominantly Barley.

Bourbon is also typically aged in new oak barrels which imparts more intense flavours – this, coupled with the high corn percentage, gives Bourbon distinct notes of popcorn, vanilla, caramel and smoke.

The story behind Iron Wheel

Iron wheel takes its name from the invention of the iron wheel in American agriculture. America. The wooden wheels used prior to the Iron variety were unreliable and limited the potential crop yields. A patent for a light dependable iron wheel design was filed in 1884, and just 7 years later roughly 300,000 iron wheels per year were being manufactured. It is in honour of this accomplishment that Iron Wheel Bourbon takes its namesake.

Made with American-grown corn, Iron Wheel is a straight bourbon that has been Oak barrel rested for four years. Produced at one of the oldest and most awarded distilleries in the world, the famous Buffalo Trace Distillery, Iron Wheel honours the land, history, and craft of real whiskey making. Afterall, a fine whiskey always starts with a great harvest of quality crops.

Distilled in Kentucky, its character is bold yet balanced. On the nose, you'll find warm caramel and subtle stone fruit. Take a sip, and the robust palate comes alive - sturdy notes of leather and dry tobacco are softened by a touch of oak and just a hint of dried cherry. The finish is smooth, medium in length, and deeply satisfying.

Iron Wheel is incredibly versatile, making it great for sipping neat or over ice and mixing into cocktails. Check out a few of our favourite recipes where Iron Wheel takes centre stage.

Iron Wheel Bourbon Peach Iced Tea

Recipe:

35ml Iron Wheel Bourbon

15ml Peach Liqueur

10ml Lime Juice

Top with Ginger Ale or Lemonade as preferred

Method:

Add Iron Wheel, Peach Liqueur and lime juice to highball glass

Fill with ice and top with your chosen mixer

Stir and garnish with an orange slice

Iron Wheel Whiskey Sour

Recipe:

50ml Iron Wheel Bourbon

25ml Lemon Juice

12.5ml Demerara Syrup

1 egg white or drops of cocktail foamer

2 dashes of preferred bitters – Angostura is classic but why not try orange or walnut

Method:

Add Iron Wheel, lemon juice, syrup and foaming agent to a shaker or jam jar.

First shake without ice, then add ice and shake until chilled.

Strain into a rocks glass over ice, and add bitters Garnish with a lemon twist

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