Heaven Hill Distillery, located in Bardstown, Kentucky, has been crafting exceptional bourbon since 1935. As a leading family-owned distillery, they’re known for quality bourbon and American whiskey. Their commitment to tradition and innovation shines through their small batch and wheated bourbons.
Heaven Hill’s portfolio includes renowned brands like Evan Williams and Elijah Craig. The acclaimed Parker’s Heritage Collection has also won over bourbon lovers worldwide. Their rich Kentucky distilling heritage continues to inspire new heights in barrel-aged bourbon creation.
Key Takeaways
- Heaven Hill Distillery is one of the largest independent, family-owned distilleries in the United States.
- The distillery is known for its award-winning portfolio of premium bourbon and rye whiskeys, including the iconic Evan Williams and Elijah Craig brands.
- Heaven Hill has a rich history in Kentucky distilling, dating back to its founding in 1935, just two years after the end of Prohibition.
- The distillery is committed to quality, tradition, and innovation in the production of small batch bourbon and wheated bourbon.
- Heaven Hill’s reputation for crafting some of the finest bourbon heritage products has earned it a loyal following among bourbon enthusiasts and connoisseurs.
The Legacy of Heaven Hill Distillery
Heaven Hill Distillery began as a family business in 1935. The five Shapira brothers started it with just $17,500. Since then, it has become a major player in American whiskey.
The brothers built their success on traditional whiskey-making methods. Their commitment to quality has made Heaven Hill highly respected in the industry.
A Family-Owned Tradition Since 1935
In 1937, the Shapiras bought out their partners for $20,000. This move kept the distillery in family hands. Each new generation has added to Heaven Hill’s success and legacy.
The Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897
Heaven Hill proudly follows the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897. This law sets high standards for whiskey quality. Many Heaven Hill whiskeys carry the Bottled-in-Bond seal.
This seal shows Heaven Hill’s dedication to authentic American whiskey. It reinforces their reputation for excellent craftsmanship.
| Key Milestones | Year |
|---|---|
| Heaven Hill Distillery founded | 1935 |
| Shapira brothers bought out operating partners | 1937 |
| Earl Beam appointed as Master Distiller | 1946 |
| Distillery fire and recovery | 1996-1999 |
The Shapira family has stayed true to their family-owned distillery. They’ve faced challenges but remain committed to bourbon heritage. Heaven Hill’s 85-year history shows its strength and dedication to American whiskey traditions.
Award-Winning Bourbon Craftsmanship
Heaven Hill Distillery excels in the art of bourbon-making. Their dedication to quality has earned them numerous awards. From award-winning bourbon to patience in aging, Heaven Hill’s process is unmatched.
Patience and Perseverance in Aging
Heaven Hill’s bourbon craftsmanship shines through their aging process. Many of their bourbons age beyond minimum requirements. The Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon ages for 7 years, exceeding legal standards.
This extended barrel-aged bourbon maturation creates complex, balanced flavors. The result is a truly remarkable whiskey.
“Heaven Hill continues to produce more Bottled-in-Bond spirits than any other distillery, maintaining this tradition alive.”
Heaven Hill’s attention to detail sets them apart. Their patience in aging ensures top-quality bourbon. Each bottle of award-winning bourbon showcases their commitment to excellence.
Taste the Difference: heaven hill bourbon
Heaven Hill Distillery is known for crafting exceptional Kentucky bourbon. Their lineup includes popular brands like Evan Williams and Elijah Craig. These bourbons are praised for their rich, smooth, and distinctive flavor profiles.
Evan Williams Black Label is a classic, easy-drinking Kentucky straight bourbon. The Evan Williams 1783 Small Batch pays tribute to the distillery’s founding year. Elijah Craig showcases the art of bourbon-making with various expressions.
Their small-batch, barrel-proof, and toasted barrel offerings highlight complex flavors. These are achieved through careful distillation and aging processes.
| Bourbon | Age | Proof | Key Flavor Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heaven Hill Black | 3 years | 80 proof | More heat, mint, baking and pepper spices, and oak |
| Heaven Hill Green | 6 years | 90 proof | More grain influence compared to Heaven Hill Black |
| Heaven Hill White | 6 years | 100 proof | Much sweeter on the nose, showing more maple and caramel than Heaven Hill Black |
Heaven Hill’s diverse offerings cater to both seasoned bourbon enthusiasts and newcomers. There’s a flavor profile to suit every palate. Explore the unique heaven hill bourbon tasting notes that have made this distillery famous.
A Sustainable Approach to Distilling
Heaven Hill Distillery’s commitment to sustainability goes beyond just words. Their “From Bark to Bottle” initiative shows their dedication to environmental responsibility. They use local Kentucky limestone water and implement energy-efficient practices in their operations.
Eco-Friendly Practices
Heaven Hill’s sustainable approach extends beyond whiskey-making. They focus on recycling and repurposing materials, like using cork byproducts in production. This ensures their bourbon is high-quality and environmentally conscious.
| Sustainability Metric | Heaven Hill’s Performance |
|---|---|
| Energy Efficiency | Earned the EPA Energy Star Certification, a recognition awarded to only ten US distilleries |
| Water Conservation | Reduced water usage through innovative practices |
| Waste Management | Recycles and repurposes materials, such as using cork byproducts |
Heaven Hill Distillery upholds its legacy of producing exceptional bourbon. They set an industry example by prioritizing sustainable distilling. This showcases the power of eco-friendly bourbon production and environmental practices.
“Sustainability is not just a goal, but a way of life at Heaven Hill Distillery. We’re committed to doing our part in creating a greener future, one bottle at a time.”
The Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience
The Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience sits in Kentucky’s bourbon country. Visitors can explore the history and craftsmanship of the distillery’s spirits. They learn about bourbon production, from distillation to aging and bottling.
Immersive Tours and Tastings
Expert guides lead tours through the distillery’s operations. Visitors see the meticulous process behind every bottle of Heaven Hill bourbon. They witness distillation, aging in oak barrels, and bottling.
The guided bourbon tasting is the tour’s highlight. Guests sample flavors from Heaven Hill’s diverse portfolio. They taste everything from Evan Williams to small-batch and limited-edition expressions.
Kentucky law allows visitors to buy up to 9 liters of bourbon per day. The distillery’s gift shop offers a chance to take home a piece of Heaven Hill’s legacy.
“The Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience is a must-visit for any bourbon enthusiast. It’s a chance to step into the heart of Kentucky’s distilling heritage and discover the passion and craftsmanship that goes into every bottle of Heaven Hill bourbon.”
| Key Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Established | 1935 |
| Distillery Tours | Offered daily |
| Tasting Experiences | Guided bourbon tastings |
| Gift Shop | Purchase up to 9 liters per customer, per day |
| Nearby Distilleries | Maker’s Mark, Willett, Barton 1792 |
Explore the Heaven Hill Portfolio
Heaven Hill Distillery has been family-owned since 1935. They’ve built an impressive portfolio of bourbon and American whiskey expressions. Each product has its own unique character and flavor profile.
The distillery offers flagship Evan Williams and Elijah Craig lines. They also produce small-batch and specialty releases. These showcase their mastery of distillation.
Small Batch Bourbons and Wheated Whiskeys
Heaven Hill’s portfolio includes outstanding small-batch bourbons and wheated whiskeys. The Evan Williams 1783 Small Batch Bourbon costs around $16 with 45% ABV. It has a solid community rating of 3.46 out of 5 stars.
For a premium experience, try the Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon. It costs $45 on average with 43.3% ABV. This bourbon boasts a higher community rating of 3.75 out of 5 stars.
The Heaven Hill Larceny Small Batch Bourbon offers a softer, approachable profile. It retails for about $26 with 46% ABV. This wheated bourbon has a community rating of 3.48 out of 5 stars.
For a bolder experience, try the Larceny Barrel Proof Bourbon. It has 63% ABV and costs $147 on average. This bourbon earned an impressive 4.26 out of 5 stars from the community.
| Bourbon Expression | Avg. US Price | ABV | Community Rating (out of 5 stars) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Evan Williams 1783 Small Batch Bourbon | $16 | 45% | 3.46 |
| Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon | $45 | 43.3% | 3.75 |
| Larceny Small Batch Bourbon | $26 | 46% | 3.48 |
| Larceny Barrel Proof Bourbon | $147 | ~63% | 4.26 |
Heaven Hill Distillery values quality, innovation, and bourbon-making tradition. They’re a top producer of the Heaven Hill bourbon portfolio, small batch bourbon, and wheated bourbon. Their American whiskey collection is exceptional.
Behind the Bottle: Label Design and Heritage
Heaven Hill’s bourbon bottles and labels honor the distillery’s rich bourbon heritage. The Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon label showcases the original Bardstown distillery. It features historic elements like “Family Owned Since 1935” and the Bottled-in-Bond seal.
These design choices highlight the premium nature of the bourbon. They also reflect Heaven Hill’s deep-rooted bourbon label design tradition, built over 85+ years.
Heaven Hill Distillery, established in 1935, has a storied history in bourbon packaging. Their flagship brand, Evan Williams Bourbon, is the world’s second-largest selling bourbon. It surpasses three million cases annually.
New bottle and label designs for Evan Williams will appear in various sizes. This change showcases Heaven Hill’s commitment to branding and product innovation.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Heaven Hill Distillery Founded | 1935 |
| Old Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond Release | 1939 |
| Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond Age | 7 years |
| Barrels Pulled for Blending | 239 |
| Barrels Ultimately Blended | 188 |
| Barrels Aged for Parker’s Heritage Collection | 133, 18 years |
The Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond label design shows the distillery’s quality commitment. The Bottled-in-Bond seal has strict requirements for production and aging. It proves Heaven Hill’s dedication to exceptional American whiskeys.
Heaven Hill’s bourbon packaging and heritage are key to its success. The brand’s attention to detail honors its roots. This is clear in the design of its bottles and labels.
For over eight decades, Heaven Hill has led in bourbon label design and branding. Their packaging showcases the rich history and quality of their products.
Cocktail Recipes with Heaven Hill Bourbon
The Boulevardier: A Classic Reimagined
Heaven Hill bourbons shine in various cocktail recipes. The Boulevardier, a Negroni twist, features Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon. Its higher proof and rich flavor complement Campari and sweet vermouth perfectly.
This balanced drink showcases Heaven Hill’s versatility in bourbon cocktails. It’s a must-try for both seasoned connoisseurs and curious beginners.
“The Boulevardier is a sophisticated twist on the Negroni that features the rich, rounded flavor of Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon.”
To make a Boulevardier, mix 2 oz Heaven Hill Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon, 1 oz Campari, and 1 oz sweet vermouth. Stir with ice and strain into a chilled glass.
Garnish with an orange twist for a stunning cocktail. It’ll transport you to a Parisian café.
Discover Heaven Hill bourbon cocktails at home. Try classic Boulevardiers or creative twists on Old Fashioneds and Manhattans. Heaven Hill’s award-winning bourbons will impress guests and satisfy your cocktail cravings.
Accolades and Industry Recognition
Heaven Hill Distillery’s excellence has earned numerous awards from prestigious industry organizations. Their bourbons and whiskeys have won gold medals and “Best in Class” honors at major competitions. These accolades showcase the distillery’s skilled craftsmanship and dedication to producing top-quality American whiskey.
In 2022, the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience was named Visitor Attraction of the Year. Jeff Crowe, director of Kentucky Visitor Experiences, won Visitor Attraction Manager of the Year. These honors highlight Heaven Hill’s commitment to exceptional guest experiences.
The distillery has also been recognized for its sustainable practices. They’ve won awards like Sustainable Distillery of the Year and American Whiskey Brand Ambassador of the Year. These accolades reflect Heaven Hill’s dedication to environmental stewardship and education.
Several Heaven Hill bourbon industry recognition brands have received top honors. Widow Jane 10-Year-Old won Best Non-Kentucky Bourbon at the World Whiskies Awards. Widow Jane Oak & Apple Wood Aged Rye and Henry McKenna bourbon both won Gold in their categories.
Heaven Hill has been named 2020 Whisky Advocate Whisky of the Year. They also won 2023 Global Distiller of the Year from Whisky Magazine. These awards cement the distillery’s leadership in the Heaven Hill awards and American whiskey industry.
The Shapira family, owners of Heaven Hill since 1935, has also earned recognition. Max Shapira, the current president, joined the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame. He received the Parker Beam Lifetime Achievement Award for his dedication to bourbon-making.
Heaven Hill Distillery’s rich history and quality commitment have made it a respected name. Their growing portfolio of award-winning American whiskey showcases their excellence. These accolades prove Heaven Hill’s pursuit of greatness in Kentucky bourbon.
Where to Buy Heaven Hill Bourbon
Heaven Hill bourbon is widely available across the United States. Bourbon lovers can easily find these award-winning whiskeys. The company has a large network of retail partners and an online store.
Online Store and Retail Locator
The Heaven Hill online store offers a curated selection of popular and exclusive bottlings. You can buy iconic Evan Williams, small-batch Elijah Craig, and unique Rittenhouse Rye. The store provides fast and reliable shipping to your doorstep.
Prefer to buy in person? Use the Heaven Hill online retail locator. Enter your location to find nearby liquor stores, bars, and restaurants. This tool makes it easy to find Heaven Hill bourbon in your area.
- Explore the Heaven Hill online store for a wide selection of the distillery’s premium whiskeys and branded merchandise.
- Use the Heaven Hill retail locator to find your nearest retailer carrying their exceptional bourbon and rye expressions.
- Enjoy the convenience of online ordering and fast shipping or the delight of discovering Heaven Hill’s offerings at your local liquor store or establishment.
Heaven Hill makes it easy to enjoy their Kentucky-distilled whiskeys. You can order online or visit local stores. Either way, you’ll experience their rich history and award-winning craftsmanship.
Conclusion
Heaven Hill Distillery is a top producer of premium Kentucky bourbon and American whiskey. Founded in 1935, this family-owned distillery upholds traditions while embracing sustainable and innovative distilling practices. Their dedication to quality has made them a leader in the industry.
Heaven Hill’s brands include Evan Williams and Elijah Craig, along with small-batch and limited-edition offerings. Their exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail captivate whiskey enthusiasts worldwide. Heaven Hill Bourbon has become a symbol of Kentucky’s finest spirits.
The impressive lineup of Heaven Hill Bourbon products showcases the brand’s rich history. Their sustainable practices demonstrate a commitment to the future. Each sip transports you to Kentucky’s heart, where tradition meets innovation.
Heaven Hill creates exceptional spirits that embody the passion and excellence of American whiskey. Their bourbon stands out in the world of fine spirits. It’s a true taste of Kentucky’s whiskey-making legacy.
FAQ
What is Heaven Hill Distillery?
Heaven Hill Distillery is a famous American whiskey maker in Bardstown, Kentucky. Founded in 1935, it’s one of the largest family-owned distilleries in the US. The Shapira family has run it since the beginning.
What are some of the flagship bourbon brands from Heaven Hill?
Heaven Hill is known for its award-winning bourbons and rye whiskeys. Their flagship brands include Evan Williams and Elijah Craig.
How long has Heaven Hill Distillery been family-owned?
The Shapira family has owned and run Heaven Hill Distillery since 1935. That’s over 85 years of family ownership.
What is the significance of the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897 for Heaven Hill?
The Bottled-in-Bond Act set strict standards for whiskey quality. Heaven Hill proudly uses this seal on many whiskeys. It shows their commitment to making authentic, high-quality spirits.
How do Heaven Hill’s aging processes contribute to the quality of their bourbons?
Heaven Hill ages its bourbons longer than required. This extra time allows flavors to develop fully. The result is rich, complex, and balanced award-winning bourbons.
What are some of the key flavor profiles and characteristics of Heaven Hill bourbons?
Heaven Hill bourbons are known for rich, smooth flavors. Their Evan Williams and Elijah Craig brands offer various tastes. Each showcases the art of bourbon-making.
How does Heaven Hill Distillery approach sustainability in its operations?
Heaven Hill is committed to sustainable whiskey production. Their “From Bark to Bottle” program shows this dedication. They use local Kentucky water and energy-efficient practices.
What can visitors expect at the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience in Bardstown, Kentucky?
Visitors can explore Heaven Hill’s rich bourbon history. Tours show the distilling, aging, and bottling processes. It’s a close-up look at how they make award-winning spirits.
What other unique and specialty bourbon expressions does Heaven Hill offer?
Heaven Hill offers small batch and specialty bourbons. These include the Heritage Collection and Parker’s Heritage Collection. Standouts are the Wheated Bourbon and Bernheim Original Wheat Whiskey.
How can consumers purchase Heaven Hill bourbon products?
Heaven Hill bourbons are widely available in the US. You can find them in stores, bars, and restaurants. Use their online locator to find products near you. You can also buy directly from their online store.