Unraveling the Story of Paper Trail Bourbon
Nestled in the heart of Kentucky, the birthplace of American whiskey, lies a distillery that's been making waves with its unique approach to bourbon making. Paper Trail Bourbon, a product of the Wilderness Trail Distillery, is not just a whiskey; it's a testament to the art of distilling and a tribute to the rich history of bourbon. Let's delve into the story behind this exceptional spirit.
Wilderness Trail Distillery: Where It All Began
Established in 2012, the Wilderness Trail Distillery is a labor of love for its founders, Shane Baker and Pat Heist. With a combined experience of over 50 years in the spirits industry, they set out to create whiskeys that honor the traditional methods while incorporating modern innovation. Paper Trail Bourbon is a shining example of their commitment to this vision.
The Art of Sour Mash
At the heart of Paper Trail Bourbon lies the art of sour mash fermentation. This traditional method involves using a portion of the spent mash from a previous distillation to inoculate the new mash. This process ensures consistency in flavor and helps maintain the unique characteristics of the whiskey. The Wilderness Trail Distillery takes this process a step further by using a proprietary yeast strain, adding another layer of complexity to their bourbon.
Yeast: The Unsung Hero
Yeast might seem like a humble ingredient, but it plays a pivotal role in shaping the final product. The Wilderness Trail Distillery's yeast strain is a carefully guarded secret, contributing to the distinctive flavor profile of Paper Trail Bourbon. This attention to detail is what sets this bourbon apart from its peers.
Barreling and Aging: The Patience Game
After distillation, the spirit is transferred into new, charred American oak barrels. This is where the magic of time and wood comes into play. The Wilderness Trail Distillery uses a unique combination of barrel types and toasting levels to enhance the flavor development of their bourbons. The result is a whiskey that's rich in vanilla, caramel, and oak notes, with a hint of spice that's uniquely Paper Trail.
Barrel Proof: A Matter of Integrity
Paper Trail Bourbon is bottled at barrel proof, meaning it's not diluted with water to reduce the alcohol content. This ensures that every drop of the whiskey that goes into the bottle is as it was when it came out of the barrel. This commitment to integrity might seem like a small detail, but it's a testament to the distillery's dedication to quality.
Paper Trail: A Nod to History
The name 'Paper Trail' is a nod to the historic significance of the distillery's location. The Wilderness Trail, a path used by early settlers to transport goods, passed through the area. The distillery's name and the bourbon's label pay homage to this rich history, tying the spirit to the land it was made on.
Sipping History in Every Glass
Paper Trail Bourbon is more than just a whiskey; it's a journey through time and tradition. From the sour mash fermentation to the barrel proof bottling, every step of the process is a testament to the craftsmanship and passion that goes into making this bourbon. So, the next time you raise a glass of Paper Trail, take a moment to appreciate the story behind it. It's a story of history, innovation, and a whole lot of love for the art of distilling.
Where to Find Paper Trail Bourbon
Paper Trail Bourbon is available in select markets across the United States. To find out where you can purchase a bottle, visit the Wilderness Trail Distillery's official website and use their 'Find Our Spirits' tool. You can also sign up for their newsletter to stay updated on new releases and distillery events.
Visiting the Wilderness Trail Distillery
If you're a bourbon enthusiast planning a trip to Kentucky, the Wilderness Trail Distillery should be high on your list. The distillery offers tours and tastings, giving visitors a behind-the-scenes look at the bourbon-making process. It's a unique opportunity to taste the history and passion that goes into every bottle of Paper Trail Bourbon.
