Many of today’s craft distillers are practicing traditional methods of making spirits and reviving lost traditions; Corsair Artisan Spirits isn’t one of these distillers. Though Corsair is located in the heart of Kentucky’s traditional bourbon country, this small distillery would better be described as innovative and unique. Founder and master distiller Darek Bell is also the author of Alt Whiskeys, a book about “alternative whiskeys and techniques for the adventurous distiller.” Bell certainly practices what he preaches with spirits like Pumpkin Spice Moonshine and Rasputin Hopped Whiskey. If you’re looking for the wilder side of whiskey, you’ve found it here.

With a Gold Medal from the San Francisco World Spirits Competition around its neck, this gin has the seal of approval by some of the most discriminating tasters in the USA. Corsair uses their own unique blend of botanicals to flavor this gin. The bright citrus flavors and hint of floral aroma balance out the crisp bite of juniper. The citrus and floral flavors go really well with cucumber, which is why recommend a Cucumber Gimlet cocktail.

Cucumber Gimlet

2 ounces Corsair Gin
3/4 ounce fresh lime juice
1/2 ounce simple syrup
3 thin cucumber slices

Gently muddle 2 cucumber and simple syrup in the bottom of a cocktail shaker. Add gin, lime juice and ice. Shake well. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with remaining cucumber slice.

How much more adventurous does it get than Pumpkin Spice Moonshine? This un-aged whiskey is distilled from malted barley and wheat, then flavored with luscious blend of ginger, nutmeg, allspice, cinnamon and pumpkin. You get the flavors of autumn all in a single spirit, which makes this a delicious addition to cocktails and party punches. Below we have a couple suggestions for you: one rich and creamy treat and a holiday punch recipe that will impress your guests.

Pumpkin Flip
(recipe by Josh Habiger)

1 whole egg
1 ounce cream
1 ounce simple syrup
1/4 ounce allspice dram
2 ounces Corsair Pumpkin Spice Moonshine

Shake without ice first, then add ice and shake again. Pour into a glass and top with a drop or two of Angostura bitters.

Pumpkin Spiced Punch
(Recipe from Corsair)

1 part apple cider
2 parts ginger ale
1 part Pumpkin Spice Moonshine

The distiller recommends serving this punch in a hollowed out pumpkin.

The 100% Rye is part of Corsair's experimental series, but it wouldn't surprise us if this whiskey becomes a regular part of their lineup. This whiskey is mature for it's age and it get's rave reviews. Though it only sits in the barrel for one year, the flavors are rich and smooth. It has that satisfying rye spice without any overpowering bite. It will do wonders in your next Manhattan.

Manhattan

2 ounces of Corsair 100% Rye Whiskey
1 ounce sweet vermouth
3 dashes Angostura bitters

Combine ingredients in a mixing glass. Fill with ice and stir gentlyl. Strain into a chilled martini or cocktail glass. Enjoy!

If you are looking for the American equivalent to a smoky Scotch whiskey, this could be your spirit. Corsair uses three batches of malted barley to make their Triple Smoke, each batch smoked with a different kind of fuel — cherry wood, peat, and beechwood.

No need for a cocktail recipe here. This is a sipping whiskey. Try a splash of water or an ice cube to open up the flavors of the whiskey.

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