In this episode of the Bourbon Road podcast, hosts Jim Shannon and Todd Ritter are joined by Joe O’Sullivan, Master Distiller at Minden Mill Distilling, for an in-depth exploration of their unique Nevada-born spirits. This episode offers a fascinating look into the world of estate distilling, where Minden Mill grows 85% of its own grains right in the challenging high-altitude climate of Nevada, just a stone’s throw from Lake Tahoe .

The conversation kicks off with a tasting of the Minden Mill Nevada Straight Rye. O’Sullivan details its 80% rye, 10% wheat, and 10% barley grain bill, all grown on-site . A standout feature of Minden Mill’s process is their innovative solution to Nevada’s harsh aging climate. Due to a staggering 3% angel’s share loss per month in the dry local environment, they employ a climate-controlled rickhouse that precisely mimics the temperature and humidity of Bardstown, Kentucky. This 94-proof, 4-year-old rye delivers a distinct “candied orange” flavor profile, a direct result of its unique terroir and estate-grown winter rye . The hosts are immediately impressed by its sweetness and complexity, noting it drinks well beyond its age .

Next, they dive into the Nevada Straight Bourbon, a four-grain whiskey featuring a special heirloom “earth tones” corn. Unlike the sweet yellow dent corn, this starchy variety is compared to a potato raw but transforms through the distilling process to produce a remarkable “cherry cola” note . This bourbon, also 4 years old and 94 proof, is aged in the same Kentucky-mimicking conditions and utilizes wooden foeders for fermentation, which adds a layer of complexity similar to a sourdough starter. The hosts praise its unique, cool, and fresh sweetness that coats the palate.

The final tasting features the 5-year-old American Single Malt, a category O’Sullivan is deeply passionate about, having been mentored by Steve McCarthy, the pioneer of the first American single malt. This expression is a testament to technological and traditional craftsmanship. It’s produced using custom Forsyth stills and a thermal oil calandria heating system that achieves a Maillard reaction, creating high-ester, flavorful whiskey right off the still. The aging process is just as intricate, taking place in a rickhouse that emulates the chilly, coastal climate of Ballindalloch, Scotland, and uses a combination of new American oak, used bourbon barrels, STRs, and Oloroso sherry casks . The result is a whiskey with a nose of deep, sweet honey-pear and butterscotch apricot.

Throughout the episode, O’Sullivan shares insights into their water source from the Sierra Nevada snowpack, their in-house malting facility, and the collaborative spirit of the American whiskey industry. He also gives a glimpse into the future of Minden Mill, including experimental heirloom corns like Jimmy Red and upcoming special releases finished in unique casks like orange wine barrels .

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