Forty Creek Distillery
Forty Creek Distillery is a Canadian whisky distillery located in Grimsby, Ontario, Canada. It was founded by John K. Hall in 1992. Forty Creek is known for its innovative approach to whisky making, producing a range of high-quality whiskies that have garnered numerous awards and accolades.
Forty Creek Whisky stands as a testament to Canadian craftsmanship and a rich heritage of distillation. Originating from the heart of Ontario’s wine country, this distinctive whisky has carved a niche in the world of spirits, embodying the essence of Canadian ingenuity and passion for quality.
At the core of Forty Creek Whisky lies its unique production process. The whisky is crafted in small batches using locally sourced grains, including rye, barley, and corn. These grains undergo meticulous fermentation and distillation, resulting in a smooth and flavorful whisky that reflects the terroir of its origins.
One of the hallmarks of Forty Creek Whisky is its aging process. Forty Creek Distillery employs a range of oak barrels, including those previously used for bourbon, sherry, and port, to impart layers of complexity and depth to the whisky. This innovative approach to barrel aging allows for a harmonious marriage of flavors, with each expression of Forty Creek Whisky offering a distinct profile that appeals to connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
I met John Hall in 2006 and he signed a bottle for me. After tasting the whisky I have wanted to visit Forty Creek Distillery and see where the magic happens.
I am heading to the distillery for a tasting. The parking lot is huge and the retail store is huge and offers tasting for free.
I taste a few of their whiskies and this is my opinion of what I tasted.
Forty Creek Barrel Select
This is the flagship whisky of the distillery, known for its smoothness and complexity. It’s a blended whisky with a rich profile featuring notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of spice. It’s a great introductory whisky for those new to Canadian whisky or looking for an everyday sipper.
Forty Creek Copper Pot
This expression is crafted using a blend of rye, barley, and corn whiskies, then aged in oak barrels. It offers a richer and more robust flavor profile compared to the Barrel Select, with pronounced spice notes, dark fruits, and a lingering finish. It’s a favorite among whisky enthusiasts looking for more depth and character.
Forty Creek Confederation Oak Reserve
This whisky is aged in Canadian oak barrels made from trees that were part of the original forests of Canada. The use of Canadian oak imparts unique flavors, including maple, toffee, and a subtle woodiness. It’s a limited edition release that showcases the distillery’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation.
Forty Creek Double Barrel Reserve
As the name suggests, this whisky undergoes a unique aging process where it’s aged in American oak barrels before being finished in once-used bourbon barrels. This dual aging imparts layers of flavor, including caramel, spice, and oak, with a smooth and velvety texture. It’s a whisky that stands out for its complexity and balance.
Forty Creek Harmony
This expression is a blend of different whiskies aged in three different types of barrels: ex-bourbon, new American oak, and sherry casks. The result is a harmonious marriage of flavors, with notes of dried fruit, chocolate, and spice complemented by a smooth and lingering finish. It’s a whisky that appeals to those who enjoy complexity and nuance in their taste.
Overall, Forty Creek Whisky offers a diverse range of expressions, each with its own unique character and flavor profile. Whether you’re a newcomer to whisky or a seasoned enthusiast, there’s likely a Forty Creek whisky that will satisfy your palate. Their commitment to quality and innovation shines through in each bottle, making them a notable player in the Canadian whisky scene.
Forty Creek Whisky has garnered acclaim both domestically and internationally, winning numerous awards for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. From the robust and spicy Copper Pot Reserve to the rich and velvety Confederation Oak, each expression showcases the skill and dedication of the master distiller.
If you are heading to wine country, take a detour and visit the distillery. It is worth a visit.
