Kirby, Wyoming-based Wyoming Whiskey is proud to welcome Brendan Cook as its new master blender. With an extensive background in Scotch and Canadian whisky, Cook brings a wealth of experience, a refined palate and a passion for the spirit to his new role.
Cook succeeds the esteemed Nancy Fraley as master blender. Since officially joining the Wyoming Whiskey team at the end of 2023, Cook has immersed himself in the whiskey-making process at the distillery in Kirby. His new residence in Kirby has allowed him to implement a year-round sampling procedure and daily cask monitoring, ensuring consistency and quality. This hands-on approach has provided Cook with a deep understanding of what’s happening with the spirit on a daily basis and how Wyoming’s extreme temperature fluctuations and unique maturation environment impact the final spirit. Reflecting on this process, Cook shares, “Being based in Kirby allows me to closely monitor the maturation of our casks week by week, month by month. This proximity allows me to personally evaluate their progress and sample the spirit, which enables us to strategically move casks at just the right time and fine-tune our new blends.”
Cook’s extensive experience with diverse cask types equips him with a deep understanding of how to amplify and balance the flavors in whiskey. He is eager to apply this expertise to Wyoming Whiskey’s future expressions, with a vision of showcasing the distinct characteristics of Wyoming’s environment in every bottle. Cook’s first completed expression as master blender was Independence Rock, Wyoming Whiskey’s annual Wyoming-exclusive bourbon, released in July 2024. This expression marks the beginning of a new chapter for Wyoming Whiskey, one that will continue to highlight the state’s unique terroir under Cook’s expert guidance.
Cook’s leadership is poised to elevate Wyoming Whiskey in the category, strengthening the brand’s commitment to crafting exceptional spirits that are a true expression of Wyoming’s rugged and pristine landscape.