By Jim Stanford on October 12, 2012
Update 10/13: The discounted bottles have sold out (see comment).
The whiskey is made with Wyoming grains and distilled in Kirby.
For more than three years, since Wyoming Whiskey first went into an aging barrel, thirsty drinkers have asked Dave DeFazio when they can taste the bourbon. “When it’s good and ready,” has been his stock reply.
Well, it’s just about good and ready.
The state’s first distillery is installing bottling equipment and expects to have its initial shipment of 2,500 cases in stores by Dec. 1. The Liquor Store of Jackson Hole is taking advance orders and offering a 20 percent discount, with 750 ml bottles priced at $40 instead of $50. Other retailers also have waiting lists.
On Dec. 1, DeFazio and business partner Brad Mead are hosting a party at the distillery in Kirby, Wyo., about a four-hour drive from Jackson, replete with tastings, tours and a band. Mead’s brother, Gov. Matt Mead, will help christen the brand. The all-day affair begins at noon.
Already demand has been keen for the bourbon, made with homegrown Wyoming grains and distilled by former Maker’s Mark master Steve Nally. The company sold all 20 private barrels it offered in advance to restaurants, bars and retailers. The Fine Dining restaurant group, Snake River Brewing Co. and Wort Hotel were among the purchasers in Jackson Hole.
The whiskey has been aged in barrels for four summers, giving it a “much more mature” flavor, DeFazio says.
To RSVP for the party in Kirby, become a Whiskey Baron on the company’s site. Up to 3,000 people are expected.
Already sold out. Effffff.
Update: The discounted bottles at The Liquor Store have sold out.
From Stephen Williams, who handles online marketing for TLS:
$50? A fool and his money….
At least it supports the ag industry in Wyoming. And it’s got the cool factor going for Kirby.
Hi Jim. Thanks for the mention!
Two Brads here. The one at post #3 is Brad Mead.
Ran into a UW student with a WYOMING WHISKEY baseball cap & am curious as to where these can be obtained.
Looking forward to tasting the Wyoming Whiskey. I grew up in Kirby, own property there and just by chance was back in Kirby and attended the big kickoff to get this all started. My name is written on one of the first casks. I will come back from Washington State for the tasting on the 1st of December. Look forward to a big success. Kelly
How do I buy a case or so of Wyoming Whiskey while in Wyoming on the 1st of December?
The distillery in Kirby has a store, where I imagine there will be a generous quantity for sale. If not, try The Liquor Store next to Albertsons or one of the other liquor stores in Jackson.