In early April of this year, the lower Ohio Valley experienced multiple rounds of heavy rain and thunderstorms, resulting in widespread flash flooding in Central Kentucky. In Frankfort, Kentucky’s state capital, the Kentucky River crested at near-record levels, impacting nearly everyone in the community. Fortunately, J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery was spared any flood damage, but its owners and team members remain deeply affected nonetheless.
In an effort to help local Franklin County residents in the flood recovery process, J. Mattingly 1845 Distillery has created a limited-edition bourbon called “Frankfort Rising,” with $30 from the sale of each bottle going towards the Franklin County Community Fund to assist families affected by the April floods.
“Seeing the devastation of the floodwaters here in our new hometown was just heartbreaking, and we wanted to do something to help,” said Susanna Westerfield, director of consumer experience. “Through our partnership with the Franklin County Community Fund, we hope to raise at least $10,000 to help our local friends and neighbors recover from their horrific losses.”
Frankfort Rising Bourbon is a five-year-old, 112 proof bourbon finished with oak staves which will be released to the public at an event at the Distillery on Aug. 14. Like all J. Mattingly 1845 whiskies, this bourbon has undergone its trademarked double-staved process, adding additional charred oak staves to each barrel at just the right moment in its aging cycle to coax out extra flavor. Tasting notes describe this bourbon as having a graham cracker note on the palate, joined by toasted oak and a gentle spice from the rye. It has a medium to long finish with lingering baking spices, vanilla, and a nutty warmth, leaving a satisfying impression.
Frankfort Rising Bourbon will be available on-site at the Distillery in Frankfort starting at 4 p.m. on August. 14. The public is invited to attend the event, which will run from 4-6 p.m. Complimentary snacks and tastings of Frankfort Rising will be available to those aged 21 years and over. The suggested retail price of Frankfort Rising is $120 per 750 mL, with $30 from each sale donated to the Franklin County Community Fund.