categor y > Whiskey
Overview: In an industry known for tradition and consistency, Isco Spirits and SoNo 1420 Distillery stand out with their unconventional approaches to flavor production. By harnessing the power of local ingredients – oysters, coastal climate, and maritime environment – these New England distilleries are redefining craft cocktail culture.
The Full Story
In Rhode Island’s capital city, Isco Spirits is pioneering a new era in spirits production. Founded by Mana Rubenstein with an ethos of innovation and sustainability, the company creates small-batch vodka, gin, bourbon and specialty releases inspired by the Ocean State’s coastal identity. This includes its famous oyster vodka – made using whole oysters to capture a distinctly briny maritime character.
“We’re not just talking about throwing some oysters in a still,” Rubenstein said during an interview with our publication. “When you use the whole oyster, and combine that with organic corn, fresh water and filtering methods, it creates something uniquely briny.” The result is an unmistakably Ocean State spirit.
Just across state lines in Connecticut, SoNo 1420 Distillery has made a name for itself through its “Finished at Sea” aging process. This innovative technique involves placing bourbon barrels on working oyster boats on Long Island Sound. As the whiskey ages, it’s exposed to constant motion and shifting temperatures – conditions that would be impossible to replicate indoors.
“The maritime environment creates a richer, fuller-bodied bourbon,” explained Ted Dumbauld, distiller and co-founder of SoNo 1420 Distillery. “We draw inspiration from pre-Prohibition traditions of aging whiskey aboard riverboats.” The end result is an unforgettable flavor profile that captures the essence of New England’s rugged coastline.
Production & Profile
Isco Spirits’ oyster vodka is distilled at a rate of approximately two gallons per day, allowing for small-batch production and precise control over quality. Rubenstein explained that each batch includes only organic corn and fresh water as ingredients – showcasing the company’s commitment to local sourcing.
SoNo 1420 Distillery takes an even more unusual approach with its Finshed at Sea bourbon aging process. The constant motion of the oyster boats creates a richer, full-bodied whiskey inspired by pre-Prohibition traditions.
Brand & Industry History
Isco Spirits was founded in Providence, Rhode Island – on the site of an abandoned industrial mill. This location provides ideal conditions for experimentation and production.
SoNo 1420 Distillery is based in South Norwalk, Connecticut – a city steeped in maritime history. Ted Dumbauld’s vision to create bourbon aged at sea was inspired by this rich heritage.
What This Means
The bold flavors created by Isco Spirits and SoNo 1420 Distillery are opening up new avenues for mixology. As the industry continues to evolve, these innovative distilleries will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping craft cocktail culture.
With oyster vodka, pizza-flavored spirits and Finshed at Sea aging processes – it’s clear that New England is redefining its place on the global spirits scene.
Consumer Takeaway
The production methods used by Isco Spirits and SoNo 1420 Distillery demonstrate a commitment to local sourcing, sustainability, and innovation. By embracing these unique approaches, consumers can look forward to an exciting future of bold flavors in craft cocktails.
From the briny maritime character of oyster vodka to the rich full-bodied bourbon inspired by pre-Prohibition traditions – New England distilleries are pushing boundaries that will undoubtedly leave their mark on cocktail culture for years to come.
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