Iowa's first post-Prohibition bourbon debuts

The first legal bourbon distilled in Iowa since the repeal of Prohibition hit the market this week.

Cedar Ridge Vineyards, Winery & Distillery, located in Swisher, near Cedar Rapids, already had a line of spirits under the name Clearheart. The new bourbon bears the Cedar Ridge brand name.

It is made with a mash containing nearly 75% corn. Under new state law, Cedar Ridge is able to sell the bourbon directly from its facility in Swisher. Barrel No. 1 was sold out in advance, and current sales are from Barrel No. 2.

The unveiling is being made at a four-day Bourbon, Blues & BBQ Festival on the premises. It is Cedar Ridge's first summer season at its new facility.

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Maker's Mark releases a new bourbon

Maker's Mark hasn't come up with a new bourbon for a long time; 52 years, to be exact. Now, the drought is over.

Maker’s Mark Distillery Inc. has released Maker’s 46, taking its traditional whiskey, then aging it for several months in barrels with seared French oak staves. The process draws more color and flavor from the wood than the standard process.

The new bourbon is 47% alcohol by volume (94 proof), and was created by company president Bill Samuels Jr., master distiller Kevin Smith and barrel maker Brad Boswell of the Independent Stave Company.

The company says the seared staves release fewer tannins than the usual charred staves used in whiskey aging, thus creating a smoother taste.

The bourbon was named Maker’s 46 after the profile name Boswell assigned to the French oak searing process, according to a company press release.

Cost of the 750ml bottle will vary by state, but in general will run about $10 higher than the company's standard bourbon.

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