Heaven’s Door Spirits, the premium American whiskey brand founded by Bob Dylan, has introduced a new initiative called the Great State Bourbon Debate. This initiative invites whiskey enthusiasts to compare and contrast Kentucky and Tennessee bourbons, reigniting the long-standing debate over which state produces the best bourbon. Heaven’s Door is the first brand to offer both a Kentucky and Tennessee bourbon, providing a unique opportunity for whiskey lovers to taste and decide for themselves.
Heaven’s Door’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Ascension, and Tennessee Straight Bourbon, Revival, are crafted from high rye mash bills with grains sourced locally to the distillery. Both bourbons are barreled at the same proof but offer distinct taste profiles. The Ascension Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a blend of two premium Kentucky straight bourbons aged over five years, non-chill filtered, with warm and slightly sweet notes of vanilla and baking spices. The limestone-filtered water of Kentucky contributes to the bourbon’s rich flavors.
In contrast, the Revival Tennessee Straight Bourbon, also aged over five years and non-chill filtered, has a drier profile with complex and sharp flavors. Unlike many Tennessee bourbons, Revival does not use the Lincoln County Process, a charcoal filtering step, allowing the natural flavors of the local non-GMO grains to be more pronounced. This results in a finish with hints of caramel, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
The debate centers around the differences between Kentucky and Tennessee bourbons, which arise from variations in water quality, climate, grain provenance, yeast types, distillation proof, and barrel wood. Kentucky’s limestone water and Tennessee’s pure spring water both play significant roles in fermentation, but their distinct properties contribute to unique flavor profiles.
Alex Moore, Master Blender and COO of Heaven’s Door Spirits, stated that the company aims to highlight the unique qualities of both Kentucky and Tennessee bourbons and engage consumers in this age-old debate. Heaven’s Door emphasizes the use of non-GMO grains and the natural elements of each state, reflecting the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation inspired by Bob Dylan’s creative spirit.