Hard Truth Distilling Debuts Signature Bourbons: A New Legacy in Grain-to-Glass Craftsmanship
Hard Truth Distilling Co. celebrates a defining moment with the launch of its inaugural grain-to-glass bourbons. This trio of bourbons—Hard Truth Sweet Mash Bourbon, elegantly bottled at 90 proof (45% ABV), and its counterparts, the Wheated Bourbon and Four Grain Bourbon, each presented at a robust 100 proof (50% ABV) under the bottled-in-bond designation—marks a significant achievement for the distillery.
The Essence of Local Terroir
Central to these bourbons is the commitment to local sourcing, a philosophy championed by Doug Miller, a dedicated fifth-generation Indiana farmer. His expert cultivation provides the majority of the wheat and all the corn, integral to the bourbons’ rich profiles, with the rye also sourced from Indiana fields. This approach ensures each bourbon variety boasts a distinctive taste, deeply rooted in the local landscape.
Crafted with Precision and Passion
The transformation from raw grain to exquisite bourbon embodies Hard Truth’s meticulous attention to detail. Bryan Smith, master distiller and a founding visionary, in collaboration with Andrew Wiehebrink of the Independent Stave Company, has pioneered unique toast and char profiles that define each bourbon’s character. This pursuit of perfection in flavor underscores a dedication to innovation and excellence in distilling.
Reflecting on this journey, Smith shares, “The creation of our distillery, in partnership with industry pioneers like Vendome Copper & Brass Works, has been a journey of immense pride and commitment. Yet, it’s the unveiling of our sweet mash whiskey—a vision that has been with us since the distillery’s conception—that truly marks a milestone. Bourbon has always been at our core, awaiting the perfect moment for its introduction.
“In each bottle is not only the culmination of years of investigation and experimentation, but also a manifestation of instinct, teamwork, and unshakable dedication on the part of the whole Hard Truth team. The knowledge that we have gained from renowned individuals such as Dr. Pat Heist and Shane Baker of Wilderness Trail, Doug Miller, and Andrew Wiehebrink has made our adventure more meaningful.
Yet, we are not bound by tradition; we are charting our own course. Hard Truth Sweet Mash is not just our product; it represents the evolution of our tradition.”
Release Details and Pricing
Hard Truth’s Sweet Mash Bourbons will make their debut at the distillery on February 24, with availability in selected markets beginning March 1. The Sweet Mash Bourbon is priced at $49.99, the Wheated Bourbon at $54.99, and the Four Grain Bourbon, the collection’s crown jewel, at $59.99.