The Art of Whiskey: A Tribute to Jean-Michel Basquiat and the Spirit of Independence

As we celebrate our nation’s birthday, we’re reminded of the pioneering spirit that has always defined America. In the world of whiskey, this spirit is alive and well, with distilleries across the country pushing the boundaries of innovation and creativity. In this article, we’ll explore two exciting new releases that embody the essence of American whiskey: Great Jones Distilling Co.’s Empire Edition bourbon, featuring the iconic artwork of Jean-Michel Basquiat, and Wyoming Whiskey’s Independence Rock, a limited-edition wheated bourbon that pays homage to the pioneers of the West.

The new Empire Edition bourbon from Great Jones Distilling Co., featuring Basquiat’s “Mecca” painting

Great Jones Distilling Co., the first whiskey distillery to call Manhattan home since Prohibition, has released a stunning new bourbon that combines the vibrant spirit of New York City with the artistic genius of Jean-Michel Basquiat. The Empire Edition bourbon features Basquiat’s “Mecca” painting, a work he created in 1982 as an interpretation of the NYC skyline. This limited-edition release is a tribute to the artist’s legacy and a celebration of the city that never sleeps.

“In continuing our partnership with Jean-Michel Basquiat, we are proud to align Great Jones Whiskey with a New York icon whose art represents the vibrant culture of downtown New York,” said Lander Otegui, senior VP of marketing at Proximo Spirits.

The bourbon itself is a four-year-old whiskey made from New York-grown corn, malted barley, and rye, bottled at 86 proof. Official tasting notes describe dry corn, cake batter, vanilla, and white pepper on the nose, followed by green grass and white pepper on the palate.

Wyoming Whiskey’s Independence Rock, a limited-edition wheated bourbon

Meanwhile, out in the Wild West, Wyoming Whiskey has unveiled its latest expression: Independence Rock, a limited-edition wheated bourbon available exclusively in Wyoming. This bourbon is an ode to the pioneers of the West and the journeys they took, with a mashbill of 68% corn, 20% wheat, and 12% malted barley. Bottled at 49% ABV, Independence Rock is a celebration of the American spirit, with notes of shaved milk chocolate, orange syrup, and cherry compote on the nose, followed by orange sponge cake, caramel, and cracked espresso bean on the palate.

“Independence Rock is more than a bourbon; it is a celebration that reverberates with the enduring heartbeat of our nation’s heritage,” said Wyoming Whiskey.

As we raise a glass to our nation’s birthday, we’re reminded of the power of innovation and creativity that defines American whiskey. Whether it’s the vibrant spirit of New York City or the pioneering spirit of the Wild West, these two new releases embody the essence of American whiskey: bold, daring, and always pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

American whiskey: a spirit of independence