The Story of Rabbit Hole Whiskey
Travel Distilled tells the story of Rabbit Hole Whiskey including its origins in Louisville, Kentucky, its process, its expressions, and its distillery.
Rabbit Hole Whiskey is a modern American whiskey brand that embodies innovation, craftsmanship, and a bold approach to distilling. Founded in 2012 by Kaveh Zamanian, a psychoanalyst-turned-whiskey-entrepreneur, Rabbit Hole has quickly become a standout in the crowded whiskey industry, known for its unique flavor profiles and commitment to quality.
The Founder’s Journey
Kaveh Zamanian’s story is as unconventional as the whiskey he creates. Born in Iran and raised in the United States, Zamanian had a successful career as a clinical psychologist and psychoanalyst. However, his passion for whiskey, ignited during a trip to Scotland, led him down a completely different path.
After years of exploring and appreciating fine spirits, Zamanian decided to dive headfirst into the world of whiskey-making. He left his career in psychology and set out to create a brand that would challenge traditional norms and push the boundaries of what whiskey could be.
The Birth of Rabbit Hole
The name “Rabbit Hole” reflects Zamanian’s journey into the unknown. Inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland, the brand symbolizes curiosity, exploration, and the willingness to take risks. Zamanian wanted to create a whiskey that was not bound by tradition but instead celebrated innovation and creativity. In 2012, he founded the Rabbit Hole Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky, the heart of bourbon country.
Crafting Rabbit Hole Whiskey
Rabbit Hole’s approach to whiskey-making is rooted in precision and artistry. Zamanian worked closely with master distillers and experts to develop a portfolio of spirits that would stand out in the market. The distillery uses locally sourced grains, including non-traditional varieties like malted rye and heirloom wheat, to create unique mash bills.
The Rabbit Hole Core Expressions
This commitment to quality and experimentation is evident in their four core expressions:
1. Rabbit Hole Cavehill – A straight Kentucky bourbon made with a high-rye mash bill, offering a spicy yet balanced flavor profile.
2. Rabbit Hole Heigold – A double-malted bourbon that combines malted rye and malted barley, resulting in a rich and complex taste.
3. Rabbit Hole Dareringer – A straight bourbon finished in PX sherry casks, delivering a sweet and fruity flavor with a velvety texture.
4. Rabbit Hole Boxergrail – A straight rye whiskey with a high malted rye content, providing a bold and spicy character.
Each expression is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, from the selection of grains to the aging process in custom-designed barrels. Rabbit Hole’s distillery, designed by world-renowned architects, is a state-of-the-art facility that combines traditional methods with modern technology.
A Modern Legacy
Rabbit Hole’s rise to prominence has been meteoric. In just a few years, the brand has garnered numerous awards and accolades, solidifying its place in the whiskey world. In 2019, Rabbit Hole caught the attention of Bacardi Limited, one of the largest spirits companies in the world, which acquired the brand. This partnership has allowed Rabbit Hole to expand its reach while maintaining its commitment to quality and innovation.
The Rabbit Hole Experience
Beyond the whiskey itself, Rabbit Hole is known for its immersive distillery experience in Louisville. The distillery, which opened in 2018, is an architectural marvel featuring a glass-enclosed still house, a rooftop bar, and a tasting room. Visitors can tour the facility, learn about the whiskey-making process, and sample the brand’s offerings. The distillery has become a must-visit destination for whiskey enthusiasts and tourists alike.
Rabbit Hole: A Vision for the Future
Rabbit Hole Whiskey represents a new era of American whiskey, one that embraces experimentation and creativity while respecting the traditions of the past. Kaveh Zamanian’s vision has not only redefined what whiskey can be but has also inspired a new generation of distillers to think outside the box. As Rabbit Hole continues to grow, it remains committed to its core values of quality, innovation, and the pursuit of excellence.
More Information
To learn more visit the official Rabbit Hole Whiskey website.
More Information
To learn more visit the official Rabbit Hole Whiskey website.
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