‘We’re Here, and We’ve Always Been Here’: Castle and Key, Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild Release 3rd Whiskey in Series Supporting Diversity and Inclusion in Distilling Industry
Castle and Key unveiled its third installment in The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey, Chapter 3. (Photo: Castle and Key)
On Tuesday, Castle and Key Distillery and the Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild unveiled the third release within a limited-edition series chronicling the untold story of Kentucky whiskey.
Between 400 and 420 bottles are available of The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey, Chapter 3, and 100 percent of the proceeds will be donated to scholarship funds in support of diversity and inclusion within the distilling world. The whiskey is bottled at 54.3% ABV. It has a suggested retail price of $175.
“The goal of the Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey series is to educate consumers about the diverse history of Kentucky distilling,” Castle and Key co-founder Will Arvin claimed in a news release. “Castle & Key has produced these annual chapters, to promote productive conversations about inclusion within the industry. As producers of American whiskey, it is our responsibility to share the history of how the spirit came to be, and we value our partnership with the Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild to work together to support a more inclusive future for prospective distillers.”
The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey, Chapter 3 is a two-barrel blend made with Hickory King Corn in the mashbill. Castle and Key partnered with Walnut Grove Farms, a family-owned business that specializes in cultivating heirloom grains in Kentucky. Hickory King Corn was a popular grain used in bourbon production during the 1900s that fell out of favor. The brand claims the varietal possesses dark fruit and chocolate aromas, rendering it appealing to scotch lovers.
Head Blender of Castle and Key Brett Connors claimed the partnership with Walnut Grove Farms demonstrated a “shared commitment to quality and sustainability.”
Each release depicts a “chapter” that chronicles a contribution of the Black community to the spirits world.
Chapter 3 was penned by Historian Kayla Bush and follows the story of Brack Beverly, a man who was born enslaved. After Beverly was freed, he worked for a Kentucky distillery in the early 1900s as a mash hand, shaping the history of bourbon.
“We’re here and we’ve always been here. We must correct the record and provide tools for the unknown future,” KBBG founder and entrepreneur Mr. Robert Beatty stated. “The KBBG supports minority entrepreneurs, addressing challenges in accessing resources. Historical roots have, at times, hindered openness to change.”
Castle and Key and the KBBG hope to make changes in the right direction with proceeds raised from The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey, Chapter 3. According to both companies, funds from the three releases are expected to reach $100,000 by the end of 2023.
The Castle and Key Scholarship Fund is a joint partnership between the whiskey brand and the Blue Grass Community Foundation. The scholarship offers financial support for people of color who want to work in Kentucky’s distilling trade. The recipients are awarded a $5,000 grant.
“A collective industry effort is essential to champion inclusivity and overcome hurdles. Our focus is on cultivating genuine bourbon enthusiasts by addressing barriers to accessibility and playing a role in clearing these hurdles,” Beatty concluded.
The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey, Chapter 3 Tasting Notes, Via the Brand
Nose: Sugar cookie, buttercream, dried apricot, grapefruit zest, cassia and caraway.
Taste: Shortbread cookie, dark brown sugar, candied orange peel, ginger, black tea, marzipan.
Finish: Jammy, with orange blossom, light baking spices and strudel.
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