Coming off last week’s Anniversary releases is no easy act to follow, but I think we’ve got a diverse and exciting lineup ahead, starting with the introduction of Winston-Salem, North Carolina’s Broad Branch Distillery.
Last year, we saw some truly unique and, in many cases, impressively aged offerings from craft producers. 2025 has only kept that momentum going.
Broad Branch Founder John Fragakis once said, "All you need is a good distillate, high-quality 53-gallon barrels and a hell of a lot of patience," and they live by that motto.
What sets Broad Branch apart isn’t just their dedication to craft whiskey, it’s their focus on grain-forward, pot-distilled spirits that pull inspiration from both American whiskey traditions and old-world distillation techniques. From heritage heirloom corn varietals to custom fermentation protocols, Broad Branch delivers bold, distinctive flavors without chasing trends or shortcuts.
Big Winston is Winston-Salem’s first legally distilled bourbon since prohibition. A 7yr single-barrel straight bourbon distilled from a signature low rye mash (86% Corn, 6% Rye & 8% Malted Barley) to deliver the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. Think Whiskey Acres meets Frey Ranch.
Rounding out that bourbon profile in a unique way is their Malt Finished Big Winston. Still 7-years old but bringing the proof up slightly, finishing in a Foundation Single Malt Barrel adds this waffle cone-like sweetness and mouthfeel to the bourbon, and rounds out the edges of the cinnamon notes into warm cinnamon butter.
For their Fidelity Rye, Broad Branch Distillery uses a 100% Washington State heirloom grain rye mash, which requires more attention during fermentation but delivers a pure taste of our prairie rye grain. At 6-yrs old, I was pleasantly surprised by the custardy profile coming from this rye and immediately put it in my list for ryes of the year consideration.
We are fortunate to also have a few cases left of their 10-year Anniversary Edition straight rye, kicking up the proof just a ton but adding age and complexity to an already outstanding rye profile. Definitely one of my favorite hidden gems on the site right now, and I can't wait to see how this does in the end of the year blinds.
