Virginia Black American Whiskey
Few have made as bold an entrance as Virginia Black Whiskey in the ever-evolving world of spirits. With its smooth texture and rich flavor, this American whiskey has quickly found its way into enthusiasts’ and casual drinkers' cabinets. But what's the story behind this suave newcomer? Let's pour ourselves a glass of Virginia Black, sit back, and delve into its history.
Virginia Black Whiskey is the brainchild of two visionaries from distinctly different realms: the music industry and the spirits world. Aubrey Drake Graham, better known as Drake, the multi-platinum-selling artist with a flair for the finer things in life, and Brent Hocking, the founder of the ultra-premium DeLeón Tequila, decided to join forces. Their mission? To create a whiskey that would stand out in terms of quality and taste and embody a lifestyle of luxury and glamour.
Launched in 2016, Virginia Black sought to challenge the traditional perceptions of whiskey. Moving away from the rugged, old-school image associated with most whiskeys, Virginia Black presented itself with a sleek, fashionable persona that appealed to a younger, style-conscious demographic. The whiskey's "Decadently Smooth" tagline perfectly encapsulates its mission to offer an abundant drinking experience.
Virginia Black is a collaboration with spirits conglomerate Diageo, known for its vast portfolio of high-quality liquors. It's a blend of 2, 3, and 4-year-old MGP bourbons, carefully selected to create a rich, smooth flavor profile that's both accessible to novices and appreciated by connoisseurs. With tasting notes hinting at maple, fruit, and vanilla, it's designed to be enjoyed straight, on the rocks, or as a sophisticated cocktail component.
The packaging of Virginia Black Whiskey is as distinctive as its flavor. The bottle, reminiscent of a cologne flask, exudes a sense of elegance and modernity, making it a standout on any shelf or bar cart.
Virginia Black Whiskey isn't just about what's inside the bottle; it's about the culture it represents. It's become a symbol of celebration, success, and the pursuit of excellence. Drake's involvement has undoubtedly played a significant role in its branding, lending it an air of celebrity and entertainment world glamour that few other spirits can claim.
The reception to Virginia Black has been somewhat favorable, with the brand quickly gaining traction in the United States and beyond. It's not just the taste or the branding that's resonated with people; it's the story of collaboration across industries to create something genuinely new and exciting.
Virginia Black has also made waves beyond the spirits market. In 2018, the brand announced an initial public offering, allowing fans and investors alike to own a piece of this liquid luxury. This move was not just about raising capital but about inviting the community to be part of the Virginia Black story.
As Virginia Black Whiskey continues to grow, its founders remain committed to innovation while staying true to the brand's core values of quality, style, and sophistication. Whether it's introducing new expressions or exploring unique marketing initiatives, the future looks bright (and decadently smooth) for this modern classic.
In the world of whiskey, where tradition often reigns supreme, Virginia Black stands out as a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and a bit of star power. So here's to Virginia Black Whiskey – a modern spirit with a timeless appeal.
Cheers to dram good time! 🥃✨
The Details:
Proof: 80 • Mashbill: Undisclosed • Aged: 2-4yrs • Price: $50
Brown Water Rating Scale:
Nose: 2 • Palate: 3 • Finish: 2 • Uniqueness: 4 • Value: 3 • Overall: 2.8
This is a 5-point scale based on my own preferences. This was also tested by my father-in-law, another whiskey lover. 