Last Updated on March 26, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Even though Breckenridge is relatively young in whiskey, it prides itself on having the highest distillery worldwide, creating award-winning drams at 9,600 feet above sea level.
It holds a distinct blend in making its whiskeys.
To know more about Breckenridge bourbon, let’s dive into this article and see why this product stands out and if it’s worthy of all its recognitions.
Here’s our exclusive Breckenridge bourbon review. Read on.
Table of Contents
ToggleEverything About Breckenridge Bourbon
Founded in 2008, the uniqueness of Breckenridge Bourbon continues to receive multiple awards in international spirits competitions worldwide.
It has a fascinating background, from its top-of-the-world distillery in Colorado that gives a unique location to age its whiskey to its unique blend of ingredients resulting in a great dram.
Quick Stats
Distillery | Breckenridge Distillery |
Whiskey Type & Region | Bourbon, Colorado, USA |
Barrel Proof | 86-proof |
Mash Bill | 56% corn, 38% green rye, and 6% malted barley |
Age | At least three years |
Average Price | Around $44 for 750ml |
Tasting Notes Overview
Nose: Pronounced aromas of vanilla with creamy sweetness, perhaps a buttery concoction of baked apple pie, corn, brown sugar, and spice-like light pepper sneeze.
Palate: It has rye spice, char tags, an oaky kick, flavors of black pepper with honey, vanilla, and light notes of butterscotch, with a tinge of taste-like cinnamon-spiced cider at first taste.
Finish: It has a medium-long finish with oak and vanilla, while white pepper lingers at the end of the sip.
Color: It has a deep amber hue.
Interesting Facts About Breckenridge Bourbon
Origin & History
Bryan Nolt, a radiologist turned distiller, founded Breckenridge’s flagship. It all started in 2008 in the skiing village of Breckenridge, Colorado, where it got its name.
Production Process
A bottle of Breckenridge contains a high rye bourbon blended with snowmelt to reveal the unique qualities of bourbon.
It uses a quality blend of mash content distilled in a column pot still.
After distillation, the bourbon whiskey is matured for at least three years in charred new American oak barrels before it is ready for bottling.
Mash Bill & Alcohol Proof
Breckenridge whiskey has a high-quality blend of 56% corn, 38% green rye grains, and 6% malted barley on its mash bill.
After maturing, the Breckenridge bourbon whiskey ’a blend’ is bottled at 86-proof lower than the Breckenridge bourbon high-proof bottled at 105-proof.
Distillery & Ownership
The Breckenridge bourbon whiskey is distilled in Breckenridge Distillery.
Its Colorado distillery is nestled in the Colorado Mountains at 9600 feet, making it the highest distillery in the world. [1]
“Blending is a huge, huge part of our business, and a big part of what we’re proud of here,”
– Erin Solomon, Retail Manager
Initially owned by Bryan Nolt, not until last 2021 that Tilray, a Canadian cannabis company, purchased the Breckenridge Distillery. [2]
Dancing Pines Distillery is also located in Colorado, producing unique and flavorful spirits. However, it has since closed its doors and is no longer operating.
Uniqueness
Breckenridge takes pride in making award-winning blended bourbon, a high-rye bourbon whiskey created with snow-melt water.
Fresh snowmelt water from Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, located 9,600 feet above sea level, is considered naturally rich in minerals, making Breckenridge bourbon whiskey unique.
Food Pairings
Breckenridge is a fun and delicious bourbon that is great to pair with sandwiches.
It is best with rye bread with pastrami because it will complement the high rye’s robust character.
High rye bourbons like Breckenridge are also perfect to pair with minty foods, milk chocolate, and sweet desserts.
Common Breckenridge Bourbon Price
Type | Size | Alcohol Proof | Average Price |
Breckenridge Bourbon | 50ml | 86-proof | Around $4 |
750ml | Around $38 | ||
1.75L | Around $75 | ||
Breckenridge Reserve Blend | 750ml | 86-proof | Around $31 |
Breckenridge Spiced Whiskey | 750ml | 82-proof | Around $36 |
Breckenridge Port Cask Finish | 750ml | 90-proof | Around $59 |
Breckenridge Rum Cask Finish | 750ml | 90-proof | Around $59 |
Breckenridge Madeira Cask Finish Bourbon | 750ml | 92-proof | Around $59 |
Breckenridge PX Cask Finish | 750ml | 90-proof | Around $59 |
Breckenridge Distillers High Proof | 750ml | 105-proof | Around $59 |
Breckenridge Imperial Stout Cask Finish | 750ml | 114.7-proof | Around $98 |
Breckenridge Single Barrel | 750ml | 102-proof | Around $121 |
Breckenridge Dark Arts: Malt Mash | 750ml | 92-proof | Around $350 |
Note: Average prices are from Drizly and Reserve Bar, which may vary in your local liquor shop.
Compared to Other Bourbons
Leopold Bros.
The Leopold Bros. straight bourbon whiskeys are also made in Colorado, but compared to Breckenridge, it has a higher alcohol content at 90-proof.
These straight bourbons are aged four years in oak barrels and use a traditional sour mash of corn and rye.
But its bottles are more expensive than Breckenridge, priced at around $56.
Old Grand Dad BiB
Old Grand Dad Bottled-In-Bond version also uses a high rye mash, 27% rye, not higher than Breckenridge.
It was aged at least four years and bottled with a higher proof of 100.
Old Grand Dad bonded bottle is cheaper priced at around $25.
It has the definite spiciness of rye on the palate and has light oak & honey notes that develop towards the finish.
Maker’s Mark
Maker’s Mark Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey uses red winter wheat grain instead of rye in its mash bill and is bottled at a higher 90-proof.
Its whiskey’s iconic hand-dipped red wax bottle has a smoother profile and is cheaper priced at around $24.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What makes Breckenridge unique?
The ingredients used in Breckenridge bourbon make it unique. Aside from its quality blend of corn, rye grain, and malted barley, it uses mineral-rich snowmelt water as a main ingredient.
Is Breckenridge ideal to sip neat?
Yes, Breckenridge is ideal for sipping neat, especially if you want to enjoy a pleasantly balanced rye whiskey spice with classic bourbon notes of oak and vanilla.
What can you mix with Breckenridge bourbon?
You can mix whiskey bitters, citrus juices, or club soda with Breckenridge bourbon whiskies to make classic cocktails.
What is Breckenridge bourbon ranked?
Breckenridge Bourbon has garnered recognition and acclaim, consistently receiving positive reviews and high rankings within the bourbon community.
While specific rankings can vary across different competitions and publications, Breckenridge Bourbon has often been praised for its quality and craftsmanship.
Its standing in various spirits competitions reflects its appeal to enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike, solidifying its reputation as a noteworthy bourbon.
What does Breckenridge bourbon taste like?
Breckenridge Bourbon is celebrated for its rich and complex flavor profile. With a well-balanced combination of sweet, spicy, and smoky notes, this bourbon offers a sensory experience that captivates the palate.
The initial taste often reveals a sweet caramel and vanilla undertone, which is complemented by hints of toffee and honey.
The mid-palate introduces a subtle spiciness, featuring notes of cinnamon and a touch of black pepper. The finish is typically smooth, with lingering smoky and oak flavors.
Overall, Breckenridge Bourbon is known for its harmonious blend of flavors, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a sophisticated and nuanced bourbon.
Who makes Breckenridge bourbon?
Breckenridge Bourbon is crafted by Breckenridge Distillery, located in the picturesque town of Breckenridge, Colorado. Founded by Bryan Nolt in 2008, the distillery has gained recognition for its commitment to producing high-quality spirits.
The team at Breckenridge Distillery combines traditional distillation methods with a passion for innovation, resulting in bourbons that reflect both craftsmanship and creativity.
The distillery’s dedication to using locally sourced ingredients and their meticulous approach to the production process contribute to the unique character of Breckenridge Bourbon.
How long is Breckenridge Bourbon aged?
Breckenridge Bourbon undergoes a thoughtful aging process to develop its distinctive character.
The bourbon is typically aged for a minimum of three years in charred American white oak barrels. This aging duration allows the spirit to absorb flavors from the wood, contributing to its complexity and depth.
The carefully monitored maturation process ensures that Breckenridge Bourbon attains the optimal balance of flavors and achieves the desired smoothness, making it a well-crafted and matured bourbon.
What is the No 1 bourbon in the world?
Determining the “No 1 bourbon in the world” can be subjective, as individual preferences play a significant role in such rankings. However, several bourbons have gained widespread acclaim and are often regarded as some of the finest in the world.
Brands like Pappy Van Winkle, Buffalo Trace, and Maker’s Mark are frequently praised for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship, earning them top positions in the bourbon hierarchy.
It’s essential to explore various bourbons to find the one that resonates most with your personal taste preferences, as the world of bourbon offers a diverse range of options for enthusiasts to savor.
What is the world’s best-selling bourbon?
The world’s best-selling bourbon title is held by Jim Beam, a renowned American whiskey producer with a rich history dating back to 1795.
Known for its iconic white label expression, Jim Beam has achieved global popularity, making it the top-selling bourbon brand in terms of volume.
What proof is Breckenridge bourbon?
Breckenridge Bourbon is typically bottled at a robust yet approachable proof, commonly ranging from 86 to 92 proof.
This proof range enhances the bourbon’s depth of flavor without compromising its smoothness, offering a well-balanced and enjoyable sipping experience.
What percent alcohol is Breckenridge bourbon?
Breckenridge Bourbon is crafted with precision, and its alcohol by volume (ABV) percentage typically falls within the standard range for bourbons, which is 43% to 46%.
This moderate ABV ensures a harmonious integration of flavors, allowing enthusiasts to appreciate the bourbon’s complexity without overwhelming the palate with excessive alcohol intensity.
What is the smoothest sweetest bourbon?
When it comes to the smoothest and sweetest bourbons, individual taste preferences play a crucial role. However, bourbons like Maker’s Mark and Woodford Reserve are frequently praised for their smooth and sweet profiles.
Maker’s Mark, known for its signature red wax seal, offers a gentle sweetness with notes of caramel and vanilla, while Woodford Reserve is celebrated for its velvety texture, showcasing a balanced blend of sweetness, spice, and fruitiness.
Where is Breckenridge made?
Breckenridge Bourbon is meticulously crafted in Breckenridge, Colorado, at the Breckenridge Distillery.
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, this distillery, founded by Bryan Nolt in 2008, takes advantage of the pristine water and locally sourced grains to produce high-quality spirits.
The unique combination of mountainous terroir and the distillery’s commitment to craftsmanship contributes to the distinct character of Breckenridge Bourbon, making it a standout in the world of American whiskey.
Is bourbon a cheap whiskey?
Bourbon is a type of whiskey that can vary widely in price, ranging from affordable options to high-end, premium bottles.
While there are certainly budget-friendly bourbon options available, there are also many bourbons that are considered premium or top-shelf, commanding higher prices due to factors such as aging, craftsmanship, and limited production.
The price of bourbon can be influenced by various factors, including the distillery, aging process, mash bill, and overall quality.
It’s important to note that the price of bourbon does not necessarily determine its quality, as there are excellent bourbons available at both affordable and premium price points.
Who distills Breckenridge bourbon?
Breckenridge Bourbon is distilled by the Breckenridge Distillery, located in Breckenridge, Colorado, USA. The distillery was founded by Bryan Nolt in 2008 with a mission to create high-quality craft spirits using traditional distilling methods and locally sourced ingredients.
Breckenridge Distillery is known for its commitment to producing premium spirits, including bourbon, whiskey, vodka, gin, and rum, using Colorado-grown grains and pure Rocky Mountain water.
Breckenridge Bourbon has gained recognition and acclaim for its exceptional quality and distinctive flavor profile.
How old is Breckenridge Distillery?
Breckenridge Distillery was founded in 2008, making it approximately 16 years old as of 2024. Since its establishment, the distillery has rapidly grown in reputation and popularity, earning numerous awards and accolades for its handcrafted spirits.
Breckenridge Distillery is celebrated for its innovative approach to distilling, commitment to quality, and dedication to using locally sourced ingredients.
Over the years, it has become a prominent player in the craft spirits industry, known for producing premium bourbons, whiskeys, and other spirits that capture the essence of the Colorado Rockies.
Is bourbon a sweet or bitter drink?
Bourbon is generally considered to be a sweet whiskey, although the degree of sweetness can vary depending on factors such as the specific brand, mash bill, and aging process.
Bourbon’s sweetness is derived from its primary ingredient, corn, which contributes natural sugars to the whiskey during fermentation and distillation.
Additionally, bourbon often undergoes aging in charred oak barrels, which imparts flavors of caramel, vanilla, and butterscotch, further enhancing its sweet profile.
However, it’s essential to note that individual perceptions of sweetness can vary, and some bourbon expressions may exhibit a more balanced or nuanced flavor profile with notes of spice, oak, and fruit alongside the sweetness.
Is bourbon a sweet whisky?
Yes, bourbon is generally considered to be a sweet whiskey due to its mash bill, aging process, and flavor profile. Bourbon must be made from a mash bill that contains at least 51% corn, a grain known for its natural sweetness.
During fermentation and distillation, the sugars present in the corn are converted into alcohol, contributing to the sweet flavor profile of the whiskey.
Additionally, bourbon is typically aged in new charred oak barrels, which impart flavors of caramel, vanilla, and butterscotch to the spirit, further enhancing its sweetness.
While bourbon can exhibit a range of flavors beyond sweetness, including spice, oak, and fruit, its overall character is often characterized by a pleasant and balanced sweetness that appeals to many whiskey drinkers.
Where is Breckenridge made?
Breckenridge whiskey is made in Breckenridge, Colorado, USA. The town of Breckenridge, nestled in the Rocky Mountains, is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational activities.
Breckenridge Distillery, founded by Bryan Nolt in 2008, is located in the heart of Breckenridge and is renowned for its award-winning craft spirits, including bourbon, whiskey, and vodka.
How is Breckenridge whiskey?
Breckenridge whiskey is highly regarded for its quality and craftsmanship. It is crafted using a combination of traditional methods and innovative techniques, resulting in a distinctive and flavorful spirit.
Breckenridge whiskey is made from a high-rye mash bill, featuring a blend of corn, rye, malted barley, and wheat, which contributes to its complex flavor profile.
The whiskey is aged in new American white oak barrels, allowing it to develop rich flavors of caramel, vanilla, spice, and oak, with a smooth and balanced finish.
Breckenridge whiskey has garnered numerous awards and accolades for its exceptional quality and taste, making it a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts.
Final Verdict: Breckenridge Bourbon Review
Breckenridge has a good whiskey brand reputation, and we appreciate its predominant rye spice flavors that balance classic bourbon notes.
Its complex, gentle, and well-rounded profile is a good bourbon whiskey option if you’re looking for something more intense in a bourbon.
If you haven’t had Breckenridge yet, we recommend you try it. At its fair price point, you’ll get a remarkable dram that won’t overwhelm your palate.
References:
- Breckenridge Distillery Takes Home Two Double Gold and One Gold Medal at the 2022 San Francisco World Spirits Competition
- Breckenridge Distillery sold to Canadian cannabis company