Local New England Distilleries at Go! Whisk(e)y Weekend, 2016

(whistlepig farm)

It’s that time of year again! From February 24th-28th, we will be holding the largest whisk(e)y event in New England, the 11th annual “Go! Whisk(e)y Weekend”. For the past decade, the action packed five day event has attracted people from all over the nation, hobbyists and experts alike.

The highlight of “Go Whisk(e)y” Weekend, the Loch & K(e)y Society’s Grand Dram Tasting will take place on Sunday, February 28th from 1-4pm. At the free tasting, a variety of over 300 Drams from around the world will be available for guests to taste. Amongst all of the great international brands will be a few unforgettable local brands that are at home right here in New England.

New England Distilling–ME
Family folklore has it that New England Distilling got their start in Maryland, when the distillery’s owner, Ned Wight’s great-great-great-grandfather took over a failing whiskey distillery. Today, now located in Portland, Maine, the business is run with an appreciation for basic distilling techniques, despite the high tech methods out there today. In their own words, “Distilling is one of those crafts that offers a unique meeting ground between history and technology, art and science… we blend history and technology, with a little more history maybe.” For more info about New England Distilling, visit www.newenglanddistilling.com.

WhistlePig–VT
Sitting on 1,300 acres of land in Shoreham, Vermont, WhistlePig Farm is the definition of fertile. Of course, great whiskey is their specialty, but they also pride themselves on the cultivation of oats, barley, alfalfa, honey, maple syrup, and some great veggies. Highly sustainable land, they keep their herbicides to a minimum. Released in 2010, their 100-proof, straight rye whiskey is aged for at least 10 years though a double-barrel process, and has received high praise from publications such as Spirits Journal, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and others. To learn more, check them out at whistlepigwhiskey.com.

Bully Boy Distillers–MA
Located in Boston, Bully Boy Distillers got its start from a historic family vault of spirits dating back to Prohibition. Seventy years after Prohibition came to an end, the vault was discovered, and the idea for the distillery was born. With a strong focus on traditional distilling techniques and emphasis on quality ingredients, Bully Boy creates their historic concoctions with a 600 liter copper pot still, allowing them to create small batches of spirits that are completely unique in their character and complexity. For more information, visit www.bullyboydistillers.com.

Sons of Liberty Spirits Co.–RI
Inspired by distinct and flavorful beers, Sons of Liberty in South Kingstown, Rhode Island proudly leads the way in seasonal whiskies. Their 2015 Hop flavored whiskey release began as an IPA, and still maintains many unique flavors. “The nose is hop forward with a delicate floral aroma. The taste features a light oak and caramel body complemented with lemon and grapefruit notes from the hops.” To learn more, visit Sons of Liberty online at www.solspirits.com.

These great distillers aren’t the only locals that will be at Go! Whisk(e)y Weekend 2016! We’ve got a great line up for you, and can’t wait to share. For more information about the event, visit Julio’s Liquors online, or give us call at (508) 867-2345.