Category: Lifestyle

When you sip Yellowstone Bourbon, you’re tasting more than just whiskey. You’re experiencing
over a century of tradition, craft, and heritage distilled into a single glass.

Established in 1872 to honor America’s first national park, Yellowstone Bourbon has long been
a tribute to the spirit of exploration and wonder. Today, that legacy continues under the
guidance of Stephen Beam at Limestone Branch Distillery.

Here’s a deep dive into the fascinating process of making Yellowstone Bourbon, from the grain
to the glass.

1. It All Starts with the Grain

At the heart of every bourbon lies the mash bill—a unique recipe of grains that gives each
whiskey its distinct flavor profile. For Yellowstone, the mash bill consists of 75% open-pollinated
white heirloom corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley. This combination is what helps give
Yellowstone its smooth yet slightly spicy character.

Corn, the predominant grain, is responsible for bourbon’s signature sweetness. Rye adds a bit
of spice and barley contributes to the overall body and depth. This recipe traces its roots back to
notes from Stephen Beam’s grandfather, ensuring that each bottle of Yellowstone Bourbon is
connected to the past.

2. Cooking the Mash

At Limestone Branch Distillery, the process of making bourbon is as much about tradition as it is
about precision. Yellowstone Bourbon’s mash is cooked using an old-fashioned, three-stage
open cook. The first stage involves boiling the corn at temperatures above 200 degrees to break
down its starches.

Once the corn has been fully cooked, the temperature is gradually lowered to introduce rye and
then lowered again for the final addition of malted barley. Many large distilleries cook all their
grains together in one step, but Yellowstone’s careful three-stage process allows each grain to
release its distinct flavors, resulting in a more nuanced whiskey.

3. A Family Yeast Strain

After cooking the mash, the temperature is reduced, and it’s time to pitch the yeast. The yeast
strain used for Yellowstone Bourbon is an extraordinary part of the process. It’s not just any yeast—a strain used by Stephen and Paul Beam’s great-grandfather, reclaimed from a yeast
jug on display at the Oscar Getz Whiskey Museum in Bardstown, Kentucky.

This yeast, with deep roots in the Beam family’s whiskey-making history, is crucial in converting
sugars into alcohol. The fermentation process lasts around 72 hours, creating what is known as
distillers beer—a liquid with 8% to 10% alcohol.

4. The First Distillation

Once fermentation is complete, the distillers beer enters a 600-gallon pot still for what’s called a
“stripping run.” In this first distillation, the beer is transformed into what’s known as low wine—an
alcohol-rich liquid containing around 25% to 30% alcohol by volume.

5. The Final Distillation

The low wine then goes through a second, more refined distillation process in a traditional
alembic still. This process, called “making the cuts,” involves boiling off various volatile
compounds in stages: the foreshot, the head, the tails, and finally, the heart. The heart of the
distillate is the purest and most flavorful part, and it’s what will ultimately be aged to become
Yellowstone Bourbon.

After the final distillation, the whiskey is close to 100 proof, ready to be transferred into barrels.

6. Into the Barrels

The final step in Yellowstone Bourbon’s production is barreling. As required for all bourbons,
each batch of whiskey is placed into new, charred oak barrels. In these barrels, the whiskey
begins its slow transformation, soaking up rich caramel and vanilla notes from the wood over
time.

Each 53-gallon barrel holds the spirit of 600 gallons of water and 950 pounds of grain—distilled
down to its purest essence. While aging, the whiskey interacts with the charred wood,
deepening in complexity and color. The result is a smooth, balanced bourbon that captures the
rugged beauty and spirit of its namesake, Yellowstone National Park.

A Tradition of Craftsmanship

Stephen Beam’s connection to the whiskey world runs deep. His family lineage includes some
of the most iconic names in bourbon history, and this rich heritage informs every bottle of
Yellowstone Bourbon. Whether it’s the carefully curated mash bill or the use of family yeast, the
process behind Yellowstone is steeped in tradition.

But even as Yellowstone Bourbon stays true to its roots, it’s also a brand that embraces
innovation. Revived in 2015 with Yellowstone Select, the bourbon has found new life at
Limestone Branch Distillery, where it continues to earn accolades for its craft, quality, and story.

The Magic Behind the Bottle

Distilling whiskey is both an art and a science, and you can learn more about it here. From the
precise cooking of the grains to the magic of fermentation and distillation, every step is carefully
managed to create a bourbon that stands out in taste and character.

For those looking to learn even more about this legendary bourbon, Limestone Branch Distillery
offers tours. Visitors can witness firsthand the intricate process behind each bottle, from 200-
year-old artifacts to a taste of the award-winning portfolio. It’s an experience as rich and storied
as the bourbon itself.

You can also find Yellowstone Bourbon near you.

Many people don’t know this, but 90% of the flavor found in Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey comes from the barrel it’s stored in. The aging process in new charred oak barrels adds layers of vanilla, caramel, and oak flavors.

As it sits in the barrel, the whiskey expands and soaks into the wood staves. This happens repeatedly, imparting the different natural flavors and making bourbon the complex spirit it is known to be.

What is Finishing in Bourbon?

For most bourbon, this first barrel is where the complexity ends. However, if a master distiller wants to add even more complexity and other flavors, they can put that bourbon into another barrel.

This is called finishing or double finishing.

Finishing is a technique used to enhance and refine the flavor of bourbon by transferring it into different barrels for additional aging after the primary aging process. The barrels used for finishing often previously held other spirits or wines, which can significantly alter the bourbon’s flavor profile.

Bourbon’s primary aging process must occur in new, charred oak barrels (it’s the law). However, once this initial aging is complete, the bourbon can be transferred to barrels that previously housed sherry, port, rum, or even wine.

This practice is not just about adding new flavors; it’s about creating a balance and adding nuance. The choice of barrel and the duration of the finishing process are critical factors that can dramatically change the final product.

Types of Barrels Used in Bourbon Finishing

The barrels used in the finishing process come in various forms, each contributing unique characteristics to the bourbon. The choice of barrel can reflect the distiller’s creativity and intent.

Sherry Casks

Sherry casks are among the most popular types used for finishing bourbon. These casks add rich, fruity, and nutty flavors, often giving the bourbon a slightly sweeter and more complex profile.

Oak Barrels

Finishing bourbon in oak barrels infuses the spirit with additional layers of flavor, such as hints of vanilla, caramel, and spice, as the wood imparts its unique characteristics. This aging process also enhances the bourbon’s complexity and smoothness, making it richer and more nuanced.

Yellowstone Bourbon Special Finishes Collection Toasted uses toasted oak staves in its process. On the palate, this adds walnut, toffee, black tea, and white pepper to the profile.

Rum Barrels

Rum barrels can impart tropical fruit notes, spice, and a hint of sweetness, making the bourbon more approachable and adding a unique twist to its flavor profile.

Yellowstone Bourbon Special Finishes Collection Rum Cask provides notes of toasted marshmallow, creme brûlée, toffee, and toasted oak.

Cognac Barrels

Finishing bourbon in cognac barrels provides the spirit with a rich and complex flavor profile. The process infuses the bourbon with notes of dried fruit, spice, and a subtle sweetness from the cognac, enhancing its depth and adding a luxurious, velvety finish.

Brandy Barrels

Finishing bourbon in brandy barrels adds a distinctive and nuanced flavor to the spirit. The process introduces hints of caramel, dried fruit, and a delicate sweetness from the brandy, enriching the bourbon’s complexity. This method results in a smooth and well-rounded finish, appealing to those who appreciate a harmonious blend of flavors.

Wine Barrels

Wine barrels, particularly those that held red wine, can add tannins, fruitiness, and a touch of acidity. These barrels are less common but offer a distinctive character to the finished bourbon.

Port Casks

Port casks contribute deep, dark fruit flavors and a silky texture. They can enhance the richness of the bourbon, adding layers of complexity that appeal to seasoned connoisseurs.

There really is no limit on the types of barrels distillers can use to introduce new flavor notes into their spirits.

The Impact of Finishing on Flavor, Aroma, and Complexity

Finishing can profoundly impact the flavor, aroma, and complexity of bourbon. Each type of barrel brings its own set of characteristics, transforming the spirit in subtle or sometimes dramatic ways.

Flavor

The additional aging in different barrels infuses the bourbon with new flavors. For example, when finished in a sherry cask, it might take on notes of dried fruit and nuts, while one finished in a rum barrel might exhibit hints of molasses and tropical fruits.

Aroma

The aroma (or nose) of the bourbon also evolves during the finishing process. The secondary barrels can introduce complex scents like dark chocolate, spice, and berries, enhancing the overall olfactory experience.

Complexity

Complexity is perhaps the most significant benefit of finishing. The layers of flavors and aromas resulting from the finishing process create a more intricate and rewarding tasting experience. Each sip reveals new dimensions, making the bourbon more enjoyable to savor.

And, over time, this complexity changes as the bourbon “opens up” or oxygen is introduced to the bottle.

Tips to Appreciate and Identify Finishing in Bourbons

Learning to appreciate and identify the finishing in bourbons can enhance your tasting experience. It can also help you find more finished bourbons to enjoy whether you drink it neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail.

Here are some tips to help you get started:

Look at the Label

Many distilleries mention the type of finishing on the label. Look for terms like “sherry cask finish” or “port cask finish” to get an idea of what to expect.

Take Your Time

Savor the bourbon slowly. Pay attention to the initial flavors, the mid-palate complexity, and the finish. Notice any new or unusual notes that might indicate the influence of the finishing barrel.

Compare and Contrast

Try tasting a finished bourbon alongside a standard expression from the same distillery. For instance, you might try a Yellowstone Select Bourbon before trying the Yellowstone Toasted Bourbon.

Recognizing the similarities and differences will help you build your palate and refine your bourbon senses.

The Future of Bourbon Finishing and Emerging Trends

The world of bourbon finishing is continually evolving, with new trends and techniques emerging. Here’s a look at what the future might hold:

Innovative Barrels

Distilleries are exploring innovative barrels, such as those that held exotic spirits or wines. These experiments push the boundaries of traditional bourbon flavors and create unique expressions.

Sustainable Practices

Sustainability is becoming a significant focus. Many distilleries are sourcing barrels from eco-friendly cooperages and using sustainable practices in their production processes.

Limited Editions

Limited edition finished bourbons are gaining popularity. These exclusive releases often feature unique barrel combinations and are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.

Yellowstone Limited Edition is our annual release. Each year, we take multiple bourbons and double-finish them in a unique cask.

In 2023, the release featured a delicately balanced blend of 7-year, 13-year, and 16-year-old bourbons, finished in Tokaji casks. Tokaji is a traditional sweet wine from Northern Hungary and is made exclusively from white wine grapes.

Finishing in these casks created a final product that featured dry spice followed by caramel, dark cherry, citrus, and white pepper.

The 2024 Yellowstone Limited Edition Bourbon blends 7-year-old and 17-year-old bourbons, each aged in Cognac and Brandy casks.

Finishing (and double finishing) in these barrels offers hints of vanilla and dark cherry, a subtle oakiness and chocolate, and provides a nose of fruit and toffee.

Learn more about the 2024 Yellowstone Limited Edition release.

Find Yellowstone Bourbon Near You

Whether you’re a bourbon beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, exploring finished bourbons can be a rewarding experience—the variety of barrels and techniques used in finishing offers endless possibilities for discovering new and exciting flavors.

The best way, of course, is to try them for yourself. Find Yellowstone Bourbon near you!

Paring camping gear down to the basics is no simple task. There are many ways to enjoy a night in the great outdoors, from a one-night sleep-out to serious backpacking to glamping in luxury.

Some essentials are in order if you’re heading out for your first such trip. Let’s assume there are at least two of you. You’re not looking to tackle sub-zero temperatures in your opening venture, and while not quite willing to break the bank, you want some good and dependable new gear.

Tenting Tonight

Since you’re turning the outdoors into your home, what about the house? There are only about a trillion kinds of tents to choose from, but we’d suggest the Coleman Sundome Dark Room tent for a reliable and reasonably-priced starter. It’s easy to set up and good by day, too, for blocking the sun’s heat.

The Bedroom

Your highest budget item should probably be for your sleeping bag because, well, sleep—and warmth if it does get a little colder than you’d expected. The Kelty Cosmic Down 20 will keep you toasty and rested at under $200. Add a NEMO Switchback Sleeping Pad for comfort, and think seriously about a Therm-a-Rest Compressible Pillow for the same reason.

Let There Be Light

Compact and under $30, the Ultimate Survival Technologies Spright Solar USB LED Lantern should keep things bright around the campsite. But we’re also partial to the lighted gloves, in various styles, from Mangata. While created with runners in mind, the gloves are great for directing light to whatever camping task is, well, at hand.

The Larder

Make sure you’ll be a regular before investing in a good camp stove. But start with a Biolite Kettlepot, which will serve for meals or coffee and will work well when you think about upgrading with Biolite’s stove or portable grill.

Goes Without Saying

The more you camp, the more you learn about what is essential for your next trip. But be sure to pack some matches (or wind-resistant cigar lighters), toiletries, and some rudimentary first-aid items. The Houmass 29-in-1 Tool Bracelet is an easy way to tote around some basic tools.

Have a Seat

It may not be essential, but a good camp chair will also serve you well at your next music and bourbon festival. The Kickback Rocker from GCI Outdoor lives up to its name.

Reward Time

When the day’s activities are winding down around the campfire, it’s time to break out the Yellowstone Select, which we assume was the first item on your packing list! Sip and savor the wilderness around you and start planning your next outdoor adventure.