When we set out to create our first batch of this unique concoction, we knew we wanted our honey to be different. We purchased and tasted a few other "bourbon honeys" but they didn't quite add up. We discovered that some within our craft often use flavorings in their attempt to achieve the effect of a bourbon-infused honey. Flavoring is a sinful word around these parts and so, we set out to do it the right way. ​The first step was to find a local distiller and a good ole-fashioned google search didn't disappoint.

 

We found 1861 Distillery in Thomasville, Georgia. During a quick phone call with Brian Higgins, owner and distiller, we discovered that he was he a former beekeeper and that he was also a retired United States Air Force Major. We were pretty sure we had found the company we had looking for but, first, we needed to give his bourbon a taste! We found out when he would be pouring his next batch of Smoked Cherry Malt Bourbon and scheduled a meeting. About a month later, we arrived for a tasting and to watch our barrel get poured.​Needless to say the tasting was amazing. 1861 Distillery offers a great tasting experience with knowledgeable staff and award winning spirits! It is definitely worth your time to stop in, wet your whistle and grab some bottles for yourself and friends next time you are in Thomasville.  

 

Arriving back at home we poured approximately 10 gallons of our wildflower honey into the freshly-poured barrel we purchased from Brian. It would spend the next 4 months being carefully and gently rotated several times a week to make sure all the spices, smokiness and smooth bourbon notes would infuse themselves into our honey. Tasting it weekly to make sure it was coming along nicely was the hardest part! We wanted to pour it sooner, but we are so glad we waited! 

​

Our newest creation, Bourbon Barrel Aged Honey was born!