Whiskey on the Edge: Exploring Strato Whiskey and the Legacy of Horse Soldier Bourbon

Discover the innovative journeys of Strato Whiskey, launched in collaboration with space exploration, and Horse Soldier Bourbon's Commander’s Select VI, honoring the legacy of U.S. Army Green Berets.
Whiskey on the Edge: Exploring Strato Whiskey and the Legacy of Horse Soldier Bourbon

A Journey into the Cosmos: The Story Behind Strato Whiskey and Commander’s Select VI

The spirits scene is ablaze with innovation as two remarkable whiskies emerge, capturing not only the imagination but also a significant piece of history. Strato Whiskey by Mile High Spirits merges the realms of whiskey craftsmanship and space exploration, while Horse Soldier Bourbon’s Commander’s Select VI pays tribute to the legacy of U.S. Army Green Berets.

Strato Whiskey An innovative whiskey inspired by the edge of space.

Strato Whiskey: A Cosmic Distillation

Mile High Spirits has recently launched Strato Whiskey, a pioneering effort that takes whiskey-making to the edge of space. Wyn Ferrell, founder of Mile High Spirits, stated, “Whiskey and space are my two biggest passions, but I knew that in order to combine the two we would have to pull off something that has never been done before.” Collaborating with World View, Ferrell and his team managed to create the first whisky to be sent to the very edge of space, inviting whiskey lovers to experience spirits boosted by unparalleled cosmic influences.

In tandem with his wife Chelsea, who has extensive experience in the aerospace industry, Ferrell’s deep interest in exploration has led them to assist NASA with asteroid mapping in their free time. The endeavor to produce whiskey partially matured in the cosmos seemed like a natural progression from their past activities and passions, suggesting that true innovation can often arise from diverse interests.

Whiskey in Space Pushing the boundaries of traditional whiskey craftsmanship.

The Science Behind Maturation

Understanding the cask maturation process is vital to appreciate the uniqueness of Strato Whiskey. Different climates affect maturation rates significantly. In cooler, damp regions like Scotland, the evaporation is much slower compared to warmer locales like Kentucky, where heat accelerates evaporation and alters alcohol concentration. The complex interaction between spirit, wood, and temperature fluctuations unlocks diverse flavor compounds, illustrating how innovative techniques can lead to extraordinary flavor profiles.

Horse Soldier Bourbon’s Tribute: Commander’s Select VI

On a very different note, the craftsmanship of whiskey has reached a poignant milestone with the new release of Horse Soldier Bourbon’s Commander’s Select VI. This limited-edition bourbon serves to honor the dedicated service of U.S. Army Green Berets who responded to the October 11 attacks in a cutting-edge fashion. Co-founder Scott Neil articulated the bottle’s significance eloquently: “It honors the legacy of the Horse Soldiers – the U.S. Army Green Berets who answered America’s call days after 9/11.”

Horse Soldier Bourbon Commander’s Select VI, a tribute to service and heritage.

This sixth edition from the Commander’s Select series stands out not only for its rich heritage but also its premium quality. With a price tag of $595, the bourbon promises a deep, sophisticated flavor profile, aged in a single, climate-controlled rickhouse significantly contributing to its maturation. Combining high-rye mash with optimal oak interaction ensures a bourbon that is as intricate as its history.

Interestingly, as whiskey sales face a fluctuating market dynamic, initiatives like Commander’s Select VI gain significance. With the bourbon market projected to double in value to $16.8 billion by 2033, American distillers are increasingly turning to craft and small-batch innovations, a trend that favors artisan distilleries like Horse Soldier Bourbon. Amidst thesemarket shifts, there is a budding enthusiasm for high-end products that embody both historical significance and compelling flavor. Neil said, “This release offers consumers a rich and robust flavor profile.” Expect bold rye spice notes that embrace caramel and oak flavors, elevating the experience while connecting to a crucial moment in history.

Craft Bourbon Craftsmanship that encapsulates history and innovation.

The Future of Whiskey Innovation

As we look towards the horizon of whiskey innovation, both Mile High Spirits and Horse Soldier Bourbon illustrate a blend of heritage and forward-thinking creativity. Ferrell envisions a new era for whiskey that bridges his love for space and spirits, possibly encouraging others in the industry to explore previously uncharted territories.

For Horse Soldier, the journey continues with plans to establish a comprehensive distillery destination. Neil speaks excitedly about the future: “We are currently in the midst of building our forever home in Somerset. The location will go beyond just a distillery; it will be a destination with food, outdoor space, and more.”

The nexus of flavor, authenticity, and innovation in both Strato Whiskey and Commander’s Select VI cultivates an engaging narrative in the whiskey community, offering enthusiasts a chance to indulge in products that signify daring exploration and a commitment to excellence. As innovation and tradition continue to intertwine in the world of whiskey, we can only anticipate what exhilarating futures await in this illustrious spirit industry.


For further reading on the implications of innovation in whiskey, check out Brainy Insights and learn more about the deeper intricacies of spirits and craftsmanship.

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