The Kentucky-based distillery has partnered with Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild for the third year, with 100 per cent of sales supporting the Kentucky Distilling Scholarship Fund
In partnership with the Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild, Castle & Key Distillery has announced the release of The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey, Chapter 3. This expression marks the third release in the distillery’s limited-edition series, in which 100 per cent of the proceeds are donated to scholarship funds to support diversity, inclusion within the distilling industry.
Cumulative scholarship funds from the three chapters are expected to reach $100,000 by the end of this year based on forecasted sales, with 400 - 420 bottles available of this year’s release.
“The goal of the Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey series is to educate consumers about the diverse history of Kentucky distilling,” says Will Arvin, co-founder of Castle & Key. “Castle & Key has produced these annual chapters, to promote productive conversations around inclusion within the industry. As producers of American whiskey, it is our responsibility to share the history of how the spirit came to be, and we value our partnership with the Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild to work together to support a more inclusive future for prospective distillers.”
Featured on each iteration’s label is a “chapter” that serves as a historical narrative to promote conversations around the aspects of how African-Americans have contributed to the spirits industry. Written by Historian Kayla Bush, The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey Chapter 3 narrates the story of Brack Beverly, who was born enslaved and eventually, as a freedman, worked as a mash hand for a Kentucky distillery in the early 1900s. The new release honors Brack Beverly and countless other African-Americans who played a vital role in shaping the legacy of bourbon, paying tribute to their ingenuity and unwavering spirit.
"We're here, and we've always been here. We must correct the record and provide tools for the unknown future," says Mr. Robert Beatty, the Lexington entrepreneur who established the KBBG in 2018 after recognizing a significant gap in historical information about the African-American influence on bourbon. “The KBBG supports minority entrepreneurs, addressing challenges in accessing resources. Historical roots have, at times, hindered openness to change. A collective industry effort is essential to champion inclusivity and overcome hurdles. Our focus is on cultivating genuine bourbon enthusiasts by addressing barriers to accessibility and playing a role in clearing these hurdles."
The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey Chapter 3 is a two-barrel blend and features Hickory King Corn, an heirloom varietal widely cultivated and favored for whiskey production a century ago but pushed from the spotlight with the introduction of other commodity grains. Castle & Key partnered with Walnut Grove Farms, renowned custodians of heirloom crops, to ensure the cultivation and preservation of this treasured grain.
“The reintroduction of Hickory King Corn demonstrates our efforts to honor its heritage,” says Brett Connors, head blender, Castle & Key. “The collaboration between Castle & Key and Walnut Grove Farms under
Scores a shared commitment to quality and sustainability, allowing bourbon enthusiasts to savor the legacy of Colonel EH Taylor and experience the exceptional character of Hickory King Corn.”
In partnership with the Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild, Castle & Key Distillery has announced the release of The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey, Chapter 3. This expression marks the third release in the distillery’s limited-edition series, in which 100 per cent of the proceeds are donated to scholarship funds to support diversity, inclusion within the distilling industry.
Cumulative scholarship funds from the three chapters are expected to reach $100,000 by the end of this year based on forecasted sales, with 400 - 420 bottles available of this year’s release.
“The goal of the Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey series is to educate consumers about the diverse history of Kentucky distilling,” says Will Arvin, co-founder of Castle & Key. “Castle & Key has produced these annual chapters, to promote productive conversations around inclusion within the industry. As producers of American whiskey, it is our responsibility to share the history of how the spirit came to be, and we value our partnership with the Kentucky Black Bourbon Guild to work together to support a more inclusive future for prospective distillers.”
Featured on each iteration’s label is a “chapter” that serves as a historical narrative to promote conversations around the aspects of how African-Americans have contributed to the spirits industry. Written by Historian Kayla Bush, The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey Chapter 3 narrates the story of Brack Beverly, who was born enslaved and eventually, as a freedman, worked as a mash hand for a Kentucky distillery in the early 1900s. The new release honors Brack Beverly and countless other African-Americans who played a vital role in shaping the legacy of bourbon, paying tribute to their ingenuity and unwavering spirit.
"We're here, and we've always been here. We must correct the record and provide tools for the unknown future," says Mr. Robert Beatty, the Lexington entrepreneur who established the KBBG in 2018 after recognizing a significant gap in historical information about the African-American influence on bourbon. “The KBBG supports minority entrepreneurs, addressing challenges in accessing resources. Historical roots have, at times, hindered openness to change. A collective industry effort is essential to champion inclusivity and overcome hurdles. Our focus is on cultivating genuine bourbon enthusiasts by addressing barriers to accessibility and playing a role in clearing these hurdles."
The Untold Story of Kentucky Whiskey Chapter 3 is a two-barrel blend and features Hickory King Corn, an heirloom varietal widely cultivated and favored for whiskey production a century ago but pushed from the spotlight with the introduction of other commodity grains. Castle & Key partnered with Walnut Grove Farms, renowned custodians of heirloom crops, to ensure the cultivation and preservation of this treasured grain.
“The reintroduction of Hickory King Corn demonstrates our efforts to honor its heritage,” says Brett Connors, head blender, Castle & Key. “The collaboration between Castle & Key and Walnut Grove Farms under
Scores a shared commitment to quality and sustainability, allowing bourbon enthusiasts to savor the legacy of Colonel EH Taylor and experience the exceptional character of Hickory King Corn.”
