The Shelf (February 2009)

Woodford Reserve 1838 Sweet Mash Whiskey

Woodford Reserve revives a long-abandoned bourbon production practice with the release of the third whiskey in its award-winning Master's Collection series, 1838 Sweet Mash. All bourbon whiskeys are traditionally crafted using a sour mash process in which ingredients — grains, yeast and water — from a prior distillation are introduced into a new mash mixture. The result is a sour mash, which is fermented for several days before being distilled. Sour mash ultimately creates a more consistent product with less variation from batch to batch. For more information, visit www.woodfordreserve.com.

Burnett's Sweet Tea, Espresso Flavors

Two new flavors have been added to the Burnett's Flavored Vodka portfolio: Sweet Tea and Espresso flavored vodkas. Since the introduction of its first flavor, Burnett's Vodka Flavors have grown to become one of the largest portfolios in the industry. The franchise now includes 18 flavors in the line including Blueberry, Cherry, Citrus, Coconut, Cranberry, Grape, Lime, Mango, Orange, Peach, Pomegranate, Raspberry, Sour Apple, Strawberry, Vanilla, Watermelon and now Sweet Tea and Espresso. For more information, visit www.burnettsvodka.com.

Beefeater 24

Beefeater Gin unveiled its new super-premium gin Beefeater 24 in London recently; the extension of the popular gin brand will debut in the U.S. this spring.  Beefeater 24 is the result of almost two years of experimentation by gin master distiller Desmond Payne. It is distilled in the heart of London and made from 12 hand-selected botanicals with a unique blend of rare teas at its heart. Beefeater 24 takes its name from its 24-hour steeping process and London's 24-hour lifestyle. It is presented in a bottle inspired by the Arts & Crafts movement.  For more information, visit www.beefeatergin.com.

O'Mara's Irish Cream Adds Flavors

Heaven Hill Distilleries Inc. has introduced Mint Chocolate and Caramel flavors for its popular O'Mara's Irish Country Cream. The rich cream of imported O'Mara's Irish Country Cream is now enhanced by the decadent flavor of mint chocolate and caramel flavoring — a pairing served well after dinner or over ice. For more information, visit www.heaven-hill.com.