I'm very excited for today's single barrel release. It was nearly a year ago we released our Dark Pumpernickel Rye pick - one of my favorite rye releases all year. Prior to that, we'd only offered one other Middle West Spirits barrel here on Seelbach's, and it was a bourbon pick I was a part of before I joined the Seelbach's team full time. After three-and-a-half years, we are back with another wheated bourbon pick.
While it may be a new name to some, Middle West Spirits has plenty of history and reputation. They were founded in 2008 focusing on elevating the distinctive flavors of the Ohio River Valley. Their spirits honor their roots, and reflect their originality as makers, their integrity as producers, and their passion for crafting spirits from grain to glass. They distill, age and package all of their spirits just north of downtown Columbus, Ohio. Even if they are new to you, Middle West Spirits is one of those distilleries we think are only going to continue to be talked about more and more in 2025 and beyond.
This 5-year, 4-month old four grain bourbon is crafted from non-GMO yellow corn, soft red winter wheat, two-row barley and dark pumpernickel rye. Middle West’s unique use of dark pumpernickel rye brings a soft spiciness that balances well with the baking spice essence of the wheat for a nice finish without overwhelming the caramel notes from corn.
The nose has dry, candied fruitiness (think Smarties candy - blueberry, raspberry) with a hint of smoked sea salt, leather, fresh almond, and Nutter Butter cookies. There’s still a confectionary element to it like French vanilla icing meets Thin Mint cookies.
The palate is saturating yet spiced at the same time - and moves quickly through many phases. Dense pops of candied fruits, a myriad of spice racks spices, a creamy toasted brown sugar note and finally a strong backbone of moderate oak.
The finish definitely stays dry, but doesn’t forget those candied fruits found on the nose. Clove, ginger and freshly cracked pepper tingle, toasted chocolate mousse continues on, while the long, long finish gives a juicy fruit revisit.
