Lexington, KY - Barrel House Distilling Co. has announced the release of their third locally distilled spirit, Oak Rum.
Aged in previously used charred oak bourbon barrels since the company was founded in 2008, the first batch was bottled at barrel proof with a proof of 105.2. This is the first aged product from Barrel House. The company, located on Manchester Street in the Lexington Distillery District, also produces Pure Blue Vodka and Devil John Moonshine; they anticipate releasing a bourbon in 2014, according to a press release.
The owners, Jeff Wiseman and Pete Wright, believe Oak Rum is the only rum produced in Kentucky at this time. As opposed to white or light rums, they say this dark rum, much like Kentucky bourbon, should be considered on the rocks before being used in cocktails and that the aging process in the bourbon barrels gives the spirit hints of bourbon and charred wood. Last week, Oak Rum was awarded Best in Category at the American Distillers’ Institute Competition.
Oak Rum is currently available locally at liquor stores, bars and restaurants (as well as online to most states via the company’s website, www.barrelhousedistillery.com). The first 50 bottles, signed and numbered, will be sold at the distillery for $50 – $200, with a portion of the proceeds going to Horse Aid Live – a 501 (c) 3 founded by Cyndi Greathouse to promote humane treatment for all equine breeds (www.horseaidlive.org).
Barrel House Distilling, located at 1200 Manchester St., offers tastings and tours and is open from 12 - 5 p.m. Fri. and 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Sat., or by appointment. For more information, visit their website.