There are plenty of ways to mark America’s 250th birthday. Wyoming Whiskey is doing it the Wyoming way: with a bottle of bourbon.
The Kirby-based distillery has released State of the Union, a limited-edition straight bourbon whiskey created to commemorate 250 years of American independence. The release celebrates the milestone while nodding to the independent Western spirit that has shaped Wyoming since it became the 44th state in 1890.
A Bourbon Built in Wyoming
Founded in 2006 by Brad and Kate Mead and David DeFazio, Wyoming Whiskey has built its identity around making whiskey that reflects where it comes from.
State of the Union follows that philosophy. The bourbon uses locally sourced non-GMO grains and limestone water drawn from aquifers near the distillery. It then ages in newly charred oak barrels through the dramatic temperature swings of Wyoming’s Big Horn Basin.
Those Wyoming conditions play an important role in the distillery’s approach. Rather than trying to replicate bourbon made elsewhere, Wyoming Whiskey leans into the ingredients, climate and landscape of its home state.
The company also maintains a connection to Wyoming’s wild places through efforts including its National Parks Series, which has supported organizations working to preserve public lands.
What’s in the Bottle?
State of the Union is aged for six years and bottled at 98 proof.
Wyoming Whiskey describes aromas of raspberry, soft lemon and sweet tea. Peach and raspberry follow on the palate, along with white chocolate and brown sugar. The finish brings candied ginger and cherry balanced by milk chocolate.
That combination gives the limited release plenty to explore on its own — but we’re certainly not opposed to putting it to work in a cocktail.
Find State of the Union in Jackson
Fortunately, Jackson whiskey drinkers don’t have to make the trip to Kirby to get a bottle.
State of the Union and is available at Barrel House in Jackson, the Whiskey Shop in Kirby and select retailers across Wyoming.
You can pour it neat and raise a glass to 250 years of American history. Or you can grab the bitters and make yourself a cocktail.
Our pick? A Wyoming Whiskey Old Fashioned — a classic way to let the bourbon do most of the talking. Cheers!
Ingredients
- 2oz Wyoming Whiskey State of the Union
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp water
- 3 dashes Angostura bitters
Instructions
- In a mixing glass, add whiskey, sugar, water, bitters, and ice. Stir ingredients and strain into a rocks glass over a large cube. Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.
