Spirit of the Day: Stranahan's Colorado Whiskey

Stranahan's Colorado Whiskey

Stranahan's Colorado Whiskey stands as a landmark in the American spirits industry, representing the first legal distillery to operate in Colorado since the end of Prohibition. Based in Denver, the brand has gained national recognition for its commitment to the American single malt category. By utilizing high-altitude aging and local ingredients, the distillery produces a distinct spirit that reflects its rugged mountain origins.

Producer History

The distillery was founded in 2004 by Jess Graber and George Stranahan, who met by chance and bonded over a shared passion for craft spirits. As the first modern microdistillery in Colorado, the company helped pave the way for the state's now-thriving craft beverage scene. In 2010, the brand was acquired by New Jersey-based Proximo Spirits, though production and operations remained firmly rooted in Denver. Today, the company continues to innovate, recently expanding its footprint with the opening of the Stranahan's Whiskey Lodge in Aspen in 2024.

Product History

Stranahan's Original is crafted from a mash bill of 100 percent malted barley, distinguishing it from the corn-heavy profiles of traditional bourbon. The production process begins with Rocky Mountain spring water sourced from Eldorado Springs, which is used to cut the spirit to proof. The whiskey is aged in new American white oak barrels with a number three char, typically for a period of six to nine years. Because the distillery is located at a high altitude, the spirit experiences unique interaction with the wood, resulting in a robust and complex profile that is non-chill filtered before bottling.

Taste Profile

Appearance: The whiskey displays a rich, warm honey hue that catches the light with golden clarity.

Aroma/Nose: The nose is characterized by deep notes of caramel, butterscotch, and vanilla, complemented by subtle hints of maple syrup and aged leather.

Palate: On the tongue, the spirit offers a creamy texture with flavors of cinnamon-butter, chocolate, and spiced pear, followed by a gentle sweetness reminiscent of melted brown sugar.

Finish: The finish is long and warming, featuring a distinct presence of rich tobacco, oak, and a lingering touch of cayenne spice.

Overall Character: It is a bold and balanced whiskey that bridges the gap between traditional malt profiles and the intensity of American oak aging.

Review

Stranahan's Colorado Whiskey maintains a strong reputation among enthusiasts, holding an average rating of 3.75 out of 5 stars based on aggregated scores from Breaking Bourbon, Distiller, and Flaviar.

Serving Guide

Glassware: Glencairn glass or heavy-bottomed rocks glass | Serving temperature: Room temperature | ABV: 47%

Serving Suggestions

• Served neat to appreciate the full complexity of the malt and oak.
• On the rocks to slightly open the aromatics and mellow the spice.
• With a splash of water to highlight the subtle fruit notes.

Food Pairings

• Smoked brisket or barbecue, as the rich oak and tobacco notes complement the savory smoke of the meat.
• Dark chocolate desserts, because the cocoa flavors in the whiskey harmonize with the bitterness of the chocolate.
• Aged hard cheeses like sharp cheddar or gouda, which stand up well to the bold, spicy finish of the spirit.

Cocktail Recipe

The Colorado Gold Rush is a classic variation that highlights the malt character of the whiskey.

Yield: 1 serving

• 2 ounces Stranahan's Original
• 0.75 ounce fresh lemon juice
• 0.75 ounce honey syrup (equal parts honey and warm water)

1. Combine the whiskey, lemon juice, and honey syrup in a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
2. Shake vigorously for 15 seconds until the exterior of the shaker is cold.
3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist if desired.