The Digest | New Jersey Magazine
Issue link: https://magazines.vuenj.com/i/1477138
Whiskey is a complex drink with dozens of iterations available for the tasting. Choosing the brand to match individual tastes is a matter of trial and error, as well as multiple sips. However, Coalition Whiskey takes the guesswork out, offering a 100% rye grain blend that stands traditional thought of rye being too intense on its head. e secret is in the rye itself as well as an aging process borrowed from the wines of Bordeaux. e result is rich, smooth, fruit forward whiskey with a spicy tinge that stems from its 90-plus proof. Coalition Whiskey came to be through a trio of men from around the globe, each with a passion for fine drinks and a specialty skill to bring to the table. Steve ompson spent 40 years pursuing his life's passion as a whiskey distiller for his own enterprise the Kentucky Artisan Distillery. His whiskey featured a unique stock of premium rye from nearby Waldeck Farm that he introduced to the other founders, and which now serves as the backbone for the Coalition brand. e rye is so special it can stand on its own differentiating the brand from others that settle for blending rye with other grains and corn to elevate the sweetness. Unfortunately, Steve passed away last year, but his influence will continue. Across the ocean, Ludwig Vanneron is a Bordeaux- based winemaker and global wine specialist who provides the expertise for the company's signature Pauillac, Sauternes and Margaux Barrique Finished Whiskeys. Pauillac, Sauternes and Margaux are regions of France where some of the best wines in the world are made. Vanneron realized using the same wine barrels to age their whiskies would yield a fruit forward taste with a smooth finish, similar to the wines the barrels held. Coalition's Barrel Proof Rye ages for nine months in the wine barrels. rough Vanneron's expertise in winemaking and his many relationships among the finest wine chateaux and cooperages in Bordeaux, he is able to find the ideal barrels to release the flavors and textures to match the rye whiskey. e final Barrel Proof product, the base of all Coalition whiskeys, is six years old. VUE ON | LIFESTYLE 62 VUENJ.COM