Distiller Notes
A genius entrepreneur and shrewd businessman, Sam Brannan cleverly plotted to make a fortune on the desperate 49ers and their demand for equipment during the Gold Rush. Sam monopolized the market by purchasing all the spades, shovels, picks, and pans in the surrounding areas, selling them at his depot store with markups of over 1000%. By 1850, Sam became "The First Millionaire" in California and the most infamous person in the state at the time.
Showcasing the old-world mash bill, The First Millionaire American Barley Whisky is crafted entirely 100% malted barley. Aged four years in a variety of previously filled French oak wine casks that once held Napa Valley wine, these barrels bestow a gentle elegance to the spirit enhancing the inherent orchard fruit and warm baking spice notes that define classic barley whisky.
A golden color in the glass with aromas of baked brown sugar, green apples, charred citrus. On the palate, notes of caramel, clove, toasted oak.
Capturing a broad range in one category, American Whiskey refers to any spirit made in America by distilling a mash of fermented grains—typically corn, wheat, rye or barley. American Whiskey must be distilled to no more than 95% alcohol and bottled at 40% or higher. In order to be labeled a straight Whiskey, it also must be aged in white oak barrels for a minimum of two years and not contain any added colors or flavors.