223: Whiskey in the American West with Brush Creek Distillery

We’re talking with Andrew Wason, Managing Director for Brush Creek Distillery in Wyoming.  Andrew is a Kentucky native and spirits industry veteran and he was finally able to join Bourbon Lens live to discuss what is happening in Saratoga Wyoming. Brush Creek Distillery sits on property that includes 30,000 acres of farmland, a cattle ranch, and a world-class resort with luxury accommodations. Brush Creek Distillery is focused on blending spirits that it has sourced by utilizing its spirits backgrounds and industry partnerships.  They’ve selected hundreds of mature bourbon barrels from a handful of award-winning distilleries in Kentucky, Indiana and Tennessee and continue to age them at their “Barrel Barn”.

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Scott and Jake
Bourbon Lens

 

(Images Courtesy of Brush Creek Distillery)

About Brush Creek Distillery:

Brush Creek Distillery is located at The Farm at Brush Creek.  Brush Creek Ranch is a working cattle ranch in the North Platte River Valley of south-central Wyoming, originally settled in 1884.   Today it encompasses over 30,000 acres of rolling western wonder surrounded by breathtaking views of the Sierra Madre mountains & Medicine Bow National Forest.

We take great pride in the rich history of the land, legacy, and traditions of the early settlers.  Like them, we are committed to bold, pioneering efforts that are equally visionary and innovative. At the heart of our vision is the desire to share the inspiration of the West with others.

About Brush Creek Railroad Rye:

Brush Creek Distillery’s Railroad Rye, Straight Rye Whiskey begins its journey in Chicago, Illinois. Barrels of mature whiskey are specially selected for a distinct maturation process aboard a 60-foot side-load rail cart. From this starting point, the barrels set out along the historic route of the Transcontinental Railroad — embarking on an epic expedition to the heart of the American West ending in the old railroad town of Saratoga, Wyoming. 

Spanning 1,776 miles, the Transcontinental Railway stood as a towering symbol of American ingenuity and a testament to the boundless spirit of the West. One that left a lasting mark on the western frontier and shaped the character of a nation. And an indelible reminder — over 150 years later — of what’s possible when we dare to dream big. 

In honor of the landmark achievement of the railroad and its creators’ legendary passage, we’re celebrating their monumental journey the best way we know how: with an exceptional rye whiskey forged in their path. 

Crafted to stand up to the distinct character of the railway’s visionaries and builders, this unique limited edition expression is strikingly bold at 104 proof and contains a layer of complexity, complemented by oak characteristics and nuances of candied fruit and orange zest. 

Consider this our toast to the seekers and explorers. To those driven to uncover new possibilities and author their own destiny. Always looking ahead to the next adventure. 

About Brush Creek Bourbon:

Straight Bourbon Whiskey production began at Brush Creek Distillery in 2019. While we’re super excited about what’s in each of the barrels resting on-site, our own bourbon won’t be ready for another 4-5 years. It’s a fact that great whiskey can’t be rushed, it simply takes time to age and develop.

Utilizing our spirits backgrounds and great industry partnerships, we were able to select hundreds of mature bourbon barrels from a handful of award-winning distilleries in Kentucky, Indiana and Tennessee. We’ve transferred most of these barrels to our “Barrel Barn” where they rest and continue to age. As part of our spirits program each of these barrels undergo a barrel analysis and continuous profiling. The process, while intensive, ensures quality and consistency in every barrel, bottle and glass.

Tasting Notes: Bold aromas of malt and dried cherries mingle with hints of new leather and thyme. The palate envelops a silky coating of roasted cherries and dried blueberries. Toasted Oak notes and hints of cinnamon hit throughout the palate and create a refined finish.

About Brush Creek Rye:

Brush Creek Distillery’s straight rye whiskey is like our straight bourbon whiskey in the fact that we’ve meticulously sourced unique rye barrels from the Midwest.  We transferred these hand-selected barrels to Wyoming to further age, blend and bottle while our own rye whiskey matures on-site.  We use multiple mashbills in limited quantities to create our initial Creek Straight Rye Whiskey.  We’re equally as excited about our rye as the intense weather changes in Wyoming offer an unmatched product.

Tasting Notes: Robust notes of Sassafras, nutmeg and pine dance with bright notes of blackberries, apples, cinnamon, freshly made caramel and vanilla bean. The palate encompasses flavors of rose and dried oranges dipped in milk chocolate that are silky and balanced.

Brush Creek Distillery in The Media:

• Brush Creek Distillery 
• Brush Creek Distillery appoints new head distiller - American Whiskey Magazine 
• Destination Spirits: The Distillery At Brush Creek Produces Spirits With A Distinct Connection To Its Land 
• Round Up: Brush Creek Distillery - Big Sky Journal
• Whiskey Distilleries Where You Can Spend the Night | Men's Journal
• Brush Creek Distillery Launches Line of Spirits in Kentucky
• Experience the Brush Creek Distillery