Military Bourbon Review: Hellbender Bourbon

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History – In 2014, Independent Distilling Company emerged in Decatur, Georgia, with a clear mission: crafting small-batch, artisanal spirits that honor the South’s distillation legacy using locally sourced, top-notch ingredients. Michael Anderson and Casey Teague spearheaded this venture, driven by their love for Georgia and a profound passion for crafting exceptional spirits.

Michael, a Kennesaw native, brought not just distillation expertise but also a deep bond with the local community, shaped by Georgia’s picturesque landscapes. His upbringing instilled in him a reverence for the land and a commitment to showcasing its essence through spirits.

Casey, from Smyrna, added her unique flair, blending her journalism background with a passion for storytelling. Infusing narrative into every aspect of the company’s identity, from labels to marketing, she aimed to captivate audiences and evoke emotion.

Together, Michael and Casey set out to redefine craft distillation in Georgia, driven by a shared pursuit of excellence and innovation. Armed with a 100-gallon Copper Pot Still, they crafted a lineup of spirits, starting with the iconic Hellbender Corn Whiskey, a revival of a forgotten southern tradition. Using locally sourced corn and a meticulous distillation process, they captured the region’s terroir in every bottle.

Their success spurred expansion, introducing spirits like Independent Rum, made from table-grade molasses, and Hellbender Bourbon, the first of its kind within Atlanta since Prohibition. Each offering reflected Michael and Casey’s unwavering dedication to quality and craftsmanship.

As Independent Distilling Company flourished, Michael and Casey remained true to their founding principles, infusing their brand with narrative depth and authenticity. They looked ahead with excitement, ready to continue pushing boundaries while honoring tradition, confident that their company would remain a standard-bearer in the craft spirits world. Let’s dig in!

Value – Great Value at under $50 for a unique homegrown spirit.

Appearance – Awesome bottle and name at that. When I spoke with Casey at the distillery he also pointed out the crafty back of the label that forms and I when the label is placed on correctly.

Nose – High Corn / Raisin / Almond

Palate – Not Dominating but Sweet / Custard / Maple Wood / Mint

Finish – Great Finish with a Lingering Cooling of 10 Seconds / Vanilla / Butterscotch / Pancakes

Summary – Independent Distilling Company stands as a beacon of Georgia’s distillation legacy, rooted in a deep love for the South and a commitment to artisanal craftsmanship. Spearheaded by Michael Anderson and Casey Teague, their journey began with a mission to honor the region’s terroir through exceptional spirits. Their flagship Hellbender Corn Whiskey, a revival of southern tradition, exemplifies their dedication to quality, using locally sourced ingredients and meticulous distillation. Their success is not just in the spirits they craft, but in the stories they tell, captivating audiences and evoking emotion with every sip. Independent Distilling Company’s journey is one of passion, innovation, and a commitment to excellence, ensuring their place as a standard-bearer in the craft spirits world for years to come.

“Their story is inspiring and their bourbon captures a part of the south in every sip. A great young bourbon at the right price!”

– Andrew Workman

Uniqueness- 1-10 – 3

Appearance- 1-10 – 5

Nose- 1-20 – 5

Palate- 1-20 – 9

Finish- 1-20 – 15

Value- 1-20 – 20