In the heart of the Rocky Mountains, where rugged terrain meets the spirit of adventure, a remarkable tale of courage and resilience unfolds. The 10th Mountain Whiskey and Spirit Company pays homage to the indomitable 10th Mountain Division soldiers whose legacy is etched into the very soul of the Rockies. These brave men brought diversity, courage, and hope to this picturesque landscape when they arrived in the 1940s, training just a stone’s throw away from what is now the iconic town of Vail.
The 10th Mountain Division soldiers were a part of the greatest generation, imbued with a burning desire to make each day count and to make each day better than the last. Their mindset was molded by the rigors of mountain warfare, which not only toughened their resolve but also humbled their egos. Camp Hale, the legendary home of the 10th Mountain Division, was erected in 1942, nestled 22 miles west of Vail, between the historic towns of Leadville and Minturn in the picturesque Pando Valley. This camp, initially hosting 15,000 soldiers, 3,000 administrative personnel, medical staff, and other non-skiing personnel, 5,000 mules, and 200 loyal dogs, became the crucible where the 10th Mountain Division honed their skills.
In January of 1945, these valiant soldiers deployed to the Apennines Mountains in Italy, where they would engage in fierce battles against the formidable German army for the next two and a half months. The world held its breath as these mountain warriors fought with unwavering determination and valor. On May 2, 1945, the news echoed across the globe: Germany had surrendered to the Allies in Florence, Italy, marking the end of the 10th Mountain Division’s Italian Campaign.
After World War II, many of the 10th Mountain Division veterans returned to the United States, their love for the mountains and skiing still burning brightly. These remarkable individuals played a pivotal role in shaping the American skiing landscape, becoming the founders and managers of numerous ski resorts. To this day, their enduring legacy graces at least 62 ski resorts across the nation.
The tradition of excellence established by the original 10th Mountain Division soldiers lives on through the modern-day 10th Mountain Division Light Infantry (LI). Now based at Fort Drum in Watertown, New York, this distinguished unit holds the honor of being the most deployed military unit when a humanitarian crisis, natural disaster, or conflict arises anywhere in the world.
Embracing the Mountain Lifestyle
The spirit of the 10th Mountain Division soldiers continues to inspire and shape the mountain lifestyle that thrives in the Rockies and beyond. It’s a lifestyle that transcends generations, embraced by men and women alike. Some live it for a day, others for a weekend, and a fortunate few for a lifetime, while many find themselves somewhere in between. This unique blend of camaraderie, the grandeur of the mountains, cherished memories, and carefully crafted spirits unites people like nothing else.
To foster these deep-rooted connections, to celebrate the mountain lifestyle, and to pay homage to the 10th Mountain soldiers who sowed the seeds of this way of life, the 10th Mountain Whiskey and Spirit Company was born in the enchanting town of Vail, Colorado. It stands as a tribute not only to those courageous soldiers but also to everyone who wholeheartedly embraces the mountain lifestyle, living it to the fullest every single day.
The Distinctive 10th Mountain Bourbon
At the heart of the 10th Mountain Whiskey and Spirit Company’s offerings lies their flagship creation: the 10th Mountain Bourbon. This award-winning spirit is a testament to the craft and dedication of those who produce it. A blend of Colorado Corn (75%), American Rye (20%), and Malted Barley (5%) comes together to create a spirit that encapsulates the essence of the Rockies. This 750ML bottle of liquid gold promises a lasting impression with its bold flavor and incredibly smooth finish.
Specifications of the 10th Mountain Bourbon:
Mash Bill: With 75% Corn
Appearance: Warm Amber/Brown
Nose: Medium Sweetness with Hints of Vanilla and Oak, a Subtle Undertone of Honey
Palate: Smooth, Medium-Bodied, Notable Notes of Toasted Nuts
Finish: Sweet, Medium-Long, Lingering Essence of Vanilla
Aging: New Charred Oak Barrel
Ingredients: Corn, Rye, and Barley
Awards:
- Global Spirits Competition: Gold
- North American Whiskey and Bourbon Competition: Gold
- Denver International Spirits Festival: Gold
- Jim Murray’s 2018 Whiskey Bible Ratings: 92 Points
The 10th Mountain Bourbon is more than just a spirit; it’s a manifestation of the relentless pursuit of perfection that defines the mountain lifestyle. Crafted with precision and passion, this bourbon is a tribute to the undying spirit of the 10th Mountain Division soldiers and an embodiment of the love for the mountains that runs deep within the veins of all who cherish this way of life.
The Essence of 10th Mountain Bourbon
Upon pouring a glass of 10th Mountain Bourbon, one is immediately struck by its warm amber hue, reminiscent of the setting sun over the Rocky Mountains. The nose offers a tantalizing invitation, with medium sweetness punctuated by hints of vanilla and oak, underlined by a subtle trace of honey. It’s a sensory journey that begins long before the first sip.
When the bourbon graces your palate, you’re met with a smooth, medium-bodied experience that dances across your taste buds. Toasted nuts make their presence known, adding depth and character to the journey. As you savor the bourbon, the finish leaves a sweet, medium-long aftertaste that lingers with the delightful essence of vanilla. Each sip is a revelation, an invitation to explore the nuances of flavor and aroma that make 10th Mountain Bourbon an exquisite spirit.
Craftsmanship in Every Drop
What sets 10th Mountain Bourbon apart is not just its remarkable taste but also the meticulous craftsmanship that goes into every drop. The choice of ingredients, with a significant corn base, adds a unique sweetness and depth to the spirit. The inclusion of American Rye and Malted Barley complements the corn, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.
Aging in new charred oak barrels imparts character and complexity to the bourbon, allowing it to develop its distinctive profile over time. The result is a spirit that stands as a testament to the artistry and dedication of the distillers, reflecting the very spirit of the 10th Mountain Division soldiers who forged their legacy in the mountains.
Awards and Accolades
The accolades garnered by 10th Mountain Bourbon speak volumes about its quality and craftsmanship. It has been recognized and celebrated by esteemed institutions and experts in the field. From gold medals at renowned spirits competitions to high ratings in the esteemed Jim Murray’s Whiskey Bible, 10th Mountain Bourbon has earned its place among the finest spirits in the world.
A Toast to Tradition and Legacy
With every sip of 10th Mountain Bourbon, one not only tastes the exceptional craftsmanship but also raises a glass in honor of the brave soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division and all those who share
the profound love for the mountain lifestyle. It’s a toast to tradition and legacy, a moment to reflect on the indomitable spirit of those who blazed trails through snow-covered peaks and faced adversity with unwavering resolve. In that glass of bourbon, you find a connection to the mountains, a tribute to the past, and a celebration of the present.
As you savor the rich, smooth flavors of 10th Mountain Bourbon, you become a part of a larger story—a story of courage, camaraderie, and the unyielding spirit that defines the mountain way of life. It’s a story that continues to evolve, just as the mountains themselves change with the seasons. And with each sip, you raise a glass not only to the past but also to the limitless adventures that lie ahead, in the mountains and beyond.
