QUENCH
OUTLAW SPIRIT Raleigh brewery launches its own whiskey by JASON FRYE
R
umor has it that Sumit Vohra and Chris Mielke were sipping a dram of small batch whiskey in their favorite saloon when they decided to expand Lonerider Brewing Company into craft-distilled spirits. While questions surround the origin story, fans of Shotgun Betty Hefeweizen and Sweet Josie Brown ale, as well as fans of boutique bourbon have been asking questions since word of Lonerider Spirits hit
the streets. What does it taste like? Where can I try it? And, how do I drink it? Thirsty folks across the Triangle have been plagued by questions, but the cure has arrived in the form of Lonerider’s Sherry Cask Finished Bourbon Whiskey. Vohra, Lonerider CEO and Chief Drinking Officer, says he chose to expand into the world of whiskey in part because he likes to drink it himself. “Bourbon is a true craft drink. It’s a personal favorite of
mine, and it can stand alone or in a cocktail. I also see the craft whiskey business attaining new heights like craft beer was able to do.” This rye-forward bourbon comes in hot at 90 proof, meaning it can stand up and stand out in a cocktail, but the sherry cask finish helps each dram deliver big flavors. Open the bottle and you’ll sense toffee followed by notes of spices like cinnamon and clove, and on the first sip photography by SMITH HARDY OCTOBER 2018 | 107
