Healthy Spirits Bourbon Blog

New Arrivals: Bowmore 18 year, 15 year, 12 year and Legend!

2012-01-06T19:59:00.000-08:00

Holy Bowmore!

Happy New Year to one and all. We have quite the impressive spread of Bowmore single malt Scotch that just arrived in the shop:

-Bowmore Legend (8 year)
-Bowmore 12 year
-Bowmore 15 year (Darkest)
-Bowmore 18 year

Bowmore Scotch is peated to slightly lower levels than say Ardbeg or Laphroaig making it bold yet approachable with some amazing flavors of sea air, minerals, sea weed, peat and smoke. Definitely a must try for any Scotch enthusiasts.

Nate

New Arrivals: Hirsch Selection 28 year bourbon and 25 year rye

2011-12-29T17:57:00.000-08:00

Like old whiskey? Ya we do too. Healthy Spirits is happy to annouce the arrival of some of the oldest American whiskeys on the market! These are agruably the best offerings to bare the Hirsch name since the legendary A.H. Hirsch 16 year pot still reserve. Stocks of whiskey this old simply don't exist any more and I'd advise anyone to grab them while you still can. Cheers!

Nate

Local Micro Distilled Ryes!

2011-12-28T19:40:00.000-08:00

You want em, we got em, every locally made micro distilled rye on the market. We have the tried and true Old Potrero made at Anchor Steam Brewery, widly credited as the distillery that started the micro distilling movement. We also have the new release from Old World Spirits in Belmont, Gold Run Rye, made in the unique style of an eau de vie spirit. And finally we have the aged and unaged versions of a rye that got it's start at a local barber shop, 1512 Barbershop Rye. Check these out:

-Old Potrero Straight Rye
-Old Potrero 18th Century
-Old World Spirits Gold Run Rye
-1512 Spirits Barbershop Rye (Unaged)
-1512 Spirits Barbershop Rye (Aged)

I love supporting micro distilleries because they truly add unique flavor profiles to a market saturated with stocks from 7 or 8 macros. These are great brands and our support ensures they'll be around for years to come. You want these!

Nate

Pappy Van Winkle now in stock at Healthy Spirits!

2011-12-09T16:54:00.000-08:00

Hey All,

So we are very happy to annouce the arrival of the full Van Winkle line of bourbons. Because of the extremely high demand for these products there will be a limit of one bottle per customer. We fully anticipate selling out of the line today or tomorrow, and will be offering them on a first come first serve basis. The bottles will be behind the counter and only available upon request. Good luck everyone!

Nate
415-255-0610

2011-12-03T17:29:00.000-08:00

Hey all,

I am happy to announce the arrival of one of the most sought after lost distilleries in Scotland, Port Ellen. Port Ellen was one of the few precious distilleries on the island of Islay, known for its complex single malts smoked with peat. Port Ellen had its own malt house, which meant it prepared its barley for fermentation by hand. This was an approach that allowed them to control every step of the process, something virtually no other distillery does today. While the distillery closed in 1983 their malting house remains open and services the likes of Laphroaig, Lagavulin, Ardbeg, Bowmore and Caol Ila. This release represents some of the last stock available from Port Ellen in a beautiful 32 year cask strength non-chill filtered offering. Get it while you can.

Nate

New Arrivals: Caol Ila 12 year unpeated and Hakushu 12 year!

2011-12-01T20:45:00.000-08:00

Hey all,

Got some pretty limited new single malts in today. First off we have the Caol Ila cask strength unpeated 12 year. A Scotch that is rarely seen, if ever, in Northern California. This is an extremely sought after offering that is only made once a year at the distillery. It shows concentrated flavors of heather, sea weed, brine, stoney minerals, honey and peat. We also got a small shipment of the Hakushu Japanese 12 year single malt. This is made by Suntory who also makes Yamazaki and Hibiki. Hakushu uses 8-9% peated barley and is unbelievably soft and approachable. It shows notes of butterscotch, sea air, pine, sunflower seeds, smoke and earth. The release was tightly allocated and will not be available again for a year or so. You want these!

Cheers

Nate

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-24T13:30:00.000-08:00

Just to remind everyone that we will be closing at 3 PM today.
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving Day.

Cheers,

Rami
415-255-0610

Thanksgiving Day Schedule

2011-11-23T12:03:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone,

We wish you a safe, healthy and happy Thanksgiving Day.

For your convenience, we will be open until 3:00 PM Thanksgiving Day.

Please toast the holiday’s responsibly. Drink less, drink better.

Cheers,

Rami

415-672-5008

November Bourbon Club / New Four Roses Barrel!

2011-11-17T16:56:00.000-08:00

Hey all,

Very happy to annouce the arrival of our first ever Four Roses barrel! It's a beautiful cask strength non-chill filtered bottling that's aged 10 years and 8 months. This is without a doubt our finest single barrel bourbon to date. I'm also featuring it in Bourbon Club this month, which has already been rung and is ready for pick up! Cheers

Nate

Sazerac Antique Collection Now in Stock!

2011-11-09T18:38:00.000-08:00

Hey all,

The Sazerac Antique line has finally landed! These are gonna go quick so first come first serve while they last:

-George T. Stagg Barrel Strength Bourbon
-William Larue Weller Barrel Strength Wheated Bourbon
-Thomas Handy Sazerac Barrel Strength Rye
-Sazerac 18 Year Rye
-Eagle Rare 17 Year Bourbon

Nate

Old Potrero back in stock!

2011-11-03T16:55:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

So as you may know, Old Potrero is getting harder and harder to come by. Even as loyal followers for years, we're getting significantly less than we have in years past. We really appreciate you our customers continued support and desire to obtain this San Francisco made whiskey. We'll continuing to fight for every bottle we can. There are several bottles on the shelves right now and I should have a couple more coming next week. Enjoy!

Nate

Free Talisker and Bulliet merchandise with bottle purchase!

2011-11-03T16:40:00.000-07:00

While supplies last, next time you buy a bottle of Bulleit bourbon we'll toss in a free Bulleit bourbon hat. And if Scotch is more your thing buy any bottle of Talisker and get two free Talisker branded glasses. Cheers!

Nate

New In: Cyrus Noble San Francisco Bourbon!

2011-11-03T16:32:00.000-07:00

What's that you say, a San Francisco bourbon? Well sort of. Cyrus Noble was a pre-prohibition era bourbon from San Francisco that was popular amoungst the miners during the gold rush. The "Haas Brothers " have brought this San Francisco classic back to life by contracting a Kentucky distillery to produce it in much the same way. It is exceedingly smooth and well rounded, easy on the wallet and from a city that just can't get enough whiskey. I highly recommend trying it.

Nate

What you talking bout Willett?

2011-10-27T20:58:00.000-07:00

Holy Willett!

Are you guys seeing this collection of bottles. So we have pretty much every single varietal of Willett that's been on the market the last year and a half, because let's be honest that stuffs freakin awesome. I really don't know if you can find a bigger collection of Willett any where right now. Any way here's what we have:

-3 year rye
-4 year rye
-5 year bourbon
-6 year bourbon
-7 year bourbon (healthy spirits exclusive)
-8 year bourbon
-9 year bourbon
-10 year bourbon
-18 year bourbon
-19 year bourbon
-20 year bourbon

You want these (if I don't drink them first that is)!

Nate

Holiday Whiskey Gift Sets!

2011-10-27T20:47:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Got some frankly awesome Scotch, Bourbon and Rum gifts sets for the holiday season in today. Come get your family and friends what they really want, booze! Get em while they last.

Nate

October Bourbon Club!

2011-10-27T20:42:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

If you haven't picked it up yet October Bourbon Club is ready for pick it. This month we're featuring local micro distillery St. George of Alameda. The people at St. George take major pride in creating distinctive yet delicious spirits and Breaking and Entering bourbon is certainly in a league of its own. Not in the Bourbon Club yet? Drop by the store and sign up today, more details on the left side of this page. Cheers!

Nate

New Single Malts: Bunnahabhain 12 year and 18 year, Tobermory 15 year

2011-09-22T17:54:00.000-07:00

Hey friends,

Bourbon may be our first love here at the shop, but that doesn't stop us from having some serious affairs with single malt scotches. Tobermory, currently the only distillery on the Isle of Mull, produces this beautiful 15 year non-chill filtered master piece which comes in a nifty oak box. This is seriously in my top two or three favorite single malts, period. Also got in two Bunnahabhain single malts, the 12 year and 18 year. Bunnahabhain has the unique distinction of being one of the only non-peated Islay single malts, Bruichladdich being the other one. While the barley isn't smoked with peat you still get traces of peat from their water source, which is surrounded by peat bogs, couple that with the exquisite notes of sea air from the coastal barrel aging and you have a ridiculously complex dram that is more approachable than most Islays. Shhhh, don't tell any one but this is the last shipment of 18 year to hit shelves, they have stopped production on this expression of Bunnahabhain so it will no longer be available.

Nate

September Bourbon Club!

2011-09-22T16:12:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

For September Bourbon Club we are featuring Knob Creek Single Barrel Reserve. A premium barrel selection program for an already fantastic bourbon. If your not a Bourbon Club member feel free to sign up any time this month and receive this month's selection at a discount with full tasting notes and serving suggestions. Look for more information on the club on the left side of this page. Cheers!

Nate

New arrivals: Adrbeg Alligator!

2011-09-08T16:01:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Finally got the first official release of Ardbeg Alligator in today, and let me just say this is an epic Scotch! Ardbeg's latest achievement uses 100% new charred American oak barrels. They toasted the oak to a level 4 or "alligator" level char which results in a beautiful color and flavors of BBQ, smoke, ginger snaps, menthol, grilled steak, tar, earth, coffee and a massive amount of peat. This is an exceptional dram and something you won't want to miss. Get it while you can...........

Nate

New High West Barrel Aged Manhattan!

2011-08-27T20:47:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Got a pretty limited new release from High West Distillery today. It's a nod to the newly revived trend of barrel aging cocktails. They use a classic Manhattan recipe combining two parts rye, one part sweet vermouth and two dashes bitters. They then barrel age it for 90 days helping to integrate the ingredients and giving it a great texture. Only got one case of this so get it while you can.

Nate

Buffalo Trace Single Oak Project!

2011-08-25T19:44:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Got a pretty epic release in the shop today, Buffalo Trace's Single Oak Project. The concept behind the Single Oak Project is as extravagant as they come. It's Buffalo Trace's attempt at figuring out once and for all what conditions and variations result in the best bourbon. Their essentially trying to figure out how to make the perfect bourbon by adjusting all the possible variables. The project started almost ten years ago when Buffalo Trace hand selected 96 individual American oak trees. The trees were selected for their varying pore sizes: fine, average and course. The trees were then cut into two sections, a top and bottom section, and a barrel was made from each, resulting in 192 barrels. The barrels were then allowed to air dry or cure as it's called, some for 6 months and others for 12 months. The barrels were then filled with two different recipe bourbons, one with rye as the small grain and one with wheat. They even varied the barrel entry proofs, filling some with 105 proof bourbon and others with 125 proof bourbon. The final variation in the experiment was the use of both cement and wooden floor warehouses during the aging.

It's a pretty inspiring project that allows us the consumers to get on their website and vote for our favorite barrels. You can do that here: http://www.singleoakproject.com/

You want these!

Nate

Old Potrero now in stock!

2011-08-17T18:28:00.000-07:00

Hey guys,

So just got a few bottles of Old Potrero Straight Rye and 18th Century. Because of a distribution change these have become even harder to get. It sounds like the production will increase with the spirits division taking over the old wine facility across the street from Anchor Brewery, however it probably won't increase the supply of these whiskies for 2 or 3 years. We will continue to fight for every bottle we can, in the hopes that one day we can have it on the shelves more regularly. Cheers!

Nate

New Scotches: Ardbeg Alligator and Oban 18 Year!

2011-08-17T18:19:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Got some super limited Scotches in over the weekend and I dare say they may not last long. First off we got a tiny amount of the Ardbeg Alligator, a release that's not due to hit shelves till late Sept. This was a special Committee Reserve bottling that we were fortunate enough to get our hands on. Also got a small amount of the Oban 18 year single malt that has been very elusive and hard to come by for the better part of the last few years. You don't wanna miss out on theses!

Nate

August Bourbon Club ready for pick up!

2011-08-17T18:11:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

It's my favorite time of the month once again, Bourbon Club! This month I'm featuring Jefferson's Reserve bourbon which I'm told is usually blended in tiny 8-12 barrel lots. I have a fun interview in the tasting notes with the Founder and President, Trey Zoeller, who gave me some great insider details and information. If your not a member yet, feel free to come by the shop and sign up any time. Cheers!

Nate

Jefferson's 10 Year 100% Rye Hits Shelves!

2011-08-17T17:31:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Rye whiskey drinkers can rejoice! Jefferson's 10 year rye has just hit the market and let me tell you it is laying waste to the competition. I had a chance to catch up with Trey Zoeller, the president and founder of Jefferson's, and he was quite excited that they were able to offer an older rye at such a reasonable price. They are sourcing it from Canada, making it likely a whiskey that was destined for blending. They used all new charred oak barrels which is why they are able to call it a straight rye whiskey. Here's my tasting notes from this month's bourbon club:

Jefferson's 10 Year Rye

-8-12 barrels blended together

-Mashbill: 100% Rye

-Alcohol: 47% (94 Proof)

Tasting Notes: Pours a nice golden honey color. The nose just absolutely leaps out at you with aromas of perfume, cumin, rye, curry and mangos. Very delicate on the palate with a subtle creaminess. Flavors of vanilla, armagnac, honey suckle, pepper, coriander, cloves and some interesting floral undertones. Over all a very vibrant rye that has a depth and balance few can match.

Come and get it!

Nate

Special Visit: Drew Kulsveen From Kentucky Bourbon Distillers!

2011-07-27T17:40:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

So its been a pretty exciting day for us here at the shop. The man behind several of my personal favorite bourbon brands stopped by to pay us a visit, Mr. Drew Kulsveen of Kentucky Bourbon Distillers. Drew was nice enough recently to allow us to buy our own barrel of Willett Family Estate Bottled bourbon, their extremely limited barrel strength unfiltered line. Everything they bottle seems to turn to gold, brands like Michter's, Jefferson's, Noah's Mill, Rowan's Creek and Black Maple Hill, to name a few. Drew tells me they are able to maintain such high standards through ultra careful barrel selection and longer aging. He also shared with me conformation that the distillery renovation has been completed and that they will begin producing bourbon again on site for the first time in almost 30 years. Drew continues a family tradition of involvement in the bourbon industry that goes back several generation. His fresh and innovative ideas carry a resolve to create the absolute best bourbon possible. I can't tell you how much people like him mean to the bourbon industry, as well as whiskey geeks like you and me. We at the shop salute you good sir, keep up all the great work!

Nate

New Arrivals: Healthy Spirits Exclusive Willett Family Estate Barrel!

2011-07-27T16:49:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

In case you haven't already heard, we are the proud owners of an exclusive Willett Family Estate bottling. So happy that the guys at Kentucky Bourbon Distillers were nice enough to spare a barrel for us, they literally only release a few each year. The bourbon we hand selected was aged 7 years and 2 months, and was bottled unfiltered and at barrel strength 64.8% (129.6 proof). This bourbon is straight up mind blowing. I can't think of anything else I've tried that's as dynamic and flavorful. The barrel produced 168 bottles, so this definitely won't last forever. You want this!

Nate

New Arrival: Glenmorangie Rare 18 Year Single Malt!

2011-06-22T12:17:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Happy to say we were able to snag a case of this limited 18 year single malt from Glenmorangie, which has been unavailable for some time. It comes in this sweet display box packed with info about the distillery and the individual vintage of 18 year scotch. Glen Mo has quickly become one of my favorite non-Islay scotch whiskies and this is definitely one of their best offerings. You want this!

Nate

Father's Day Two Day Sale!

2011-06-17T17:17:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Join us for some fun Father's Day Specials Friday and Saturday only! We made some sweet "Make Your Own Manhattan Kits" and are offering discounts on some great Single Malt Scotches, Ryes and Bourbons! Stop by and pick up a gift for Dad before it's to late. Cheers!

Nate

June Bourbon Club ready for pick up!

2011-06-16T16:00:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

June Bourbon Club has been charged and is ready for pick up. This month I am featuring Baker's from Jim Beam's Small Batch Collection. Don't let the largest global bourbon distiller's name fool you, this is some seriously good sauce. Made in tiny batches, this was Master Distiller Booker Noe's attempt at super premium bourbon. Quite a success in my mind. Enjoy!

Nate

New Arrival: St. George Single Malt Whiskey Lot 10!

2011-06-09T16:27:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Happy to announce the arrival of another locally made whiskey, St. George Single Malt. This is no new kid on the block, St. George has been making and refining their single malt for the better part of 15 years. I'll let the distiller regale you:

"We've been making single malt for 15 years now—well before the dawn of the modern American craft whiskey movement. It is with great pride that we can offer you Lot 10, our tenth bottling: distilled, aged, blended, and bottled by us here in California out of love for what a handcrafted whiskey can be.
Making whiskey is what drew distiller Lance Winters to distillation in the first place. Before starting at St. George, Lance had spent five years working as a brewer. When he realized that making beer was halfway to making whiskey, he turned in his brewer's card and dedicated himself to the art and craft of distillation.

Now that we're on our tenth bottling of St. George Single Malt Whiskey, Lance's dream of making an elegant and expressive American whiskey has more than been realized. We start with two-row barley, then roast some and smoke the rest to bring out the character of the grain: various roast levels elicit rich aromas of hazelnut and cocoa, while smoking over beech and alder adds bass notes and complexity. You might think that intense roasting and smoking would give you a knockout firewater of a whiskey, but we distill and barrel age in a variety of cooperage types with the goal of making an ethereal single malt that's gentle and inviting.

Each bottling is a little different since we're able to draw from older barrels with every new batch we put out, but the goal is blend for "positive inconsistency"—increasing expressiveness and flavor with every lot we release. Our current bottling, Lot 10, was released in April 2011. To achieve just the right flavors and aromas, we ventured deep into the far corners of our whiskey library. Drawing from 18 different barrels (comprised of used bourbon casks, French oak, port barrels, and sherry barrels) allowed us to get the taste profile we were after, with notes of dusty cocoa, cola, honey, roasted nuts, and stone fruit." (http://www.stgeorgespirits.com)

Anybody thirsty yet? Believe me you want this!

Nate

Pappy Van Winkle now in stock! Please read carefully

2011-05-11T15:45:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Got a tiny allocation of the Van Winkle 12 year and Pappy Van Winkle 15 year Family Reserve bourbons. These are going to sell out instantly, so unfortunately they will be limited to one bottle per customer. Bourbon Club members may call in to reserve a bottle, everyone else it's first come first serve. Bottles will be behind the counter so please ask. Good luck!

Nate

Caol Ila 12 year and Caol Ila Distiller's Edition now in stock!

2011-04-28T17:49:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

I know all you single malt fans can't get enough from that beautiful island on the south west coast of Scotland we call Islay. Like Lagavulin, Caol Ila is peated to 35 parts per million. For comparison sake more heavily peated scotches such as Ardbeg and Laphroaig are peated to 55 and 43 parts per million respectively. While I don't want to take anything away from their more fiercely peated brethren, Caol Ila is more about balance. With an amazing contrast between flavors of stoney minerals, smoke, peat, fresh cut pine, sea air and a beautiful malt sweetness, this is surely one not to be missed! Oh and Caol Ila Distiller's Edition just won a double gold and the title of best single malt scotch at the 2011 San Francisco World Spirit Competition. So there's that........

-Caol Ila 12 Year Single Malt (43% ABV)
-Caol Ila Distiller's Edition Single Malt-Moscatel Cask Finished (43% ABV)

Thirsty yet?

Nate

Templeton Rye hits shelves!

2011-04-23T20:04:00.000-07:00

Rye drinkers can rejoice!

This tiny production rye whiskey which was introduced last year and was only available in bars, has been re-allocated to a select few retail shops. Guess who made the cut. Templeton rye utilizes a prohibition era recipe and is bottled in Templeton, Iowa. It came to fame in the 1920's when a certain bootlegger, Al Capone, decided it was his favorite whiskey. This is definitely one of the more elegant ryes on the market, truly exceptional straight or perfect as a base for cocktails.

You want this!

Nate

New Arrivals: E. H. Taylor Old Sour Mash Bourbon, Buffalo Trace Experimental and Angels Envy Port Finished

2011-04-22T17:48:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Big big releases today! All highly anticipated with extremely limited quantities. First off we have the E. H. Taylor Old Sour Mash bourbon. E. H. Taylor is widely considered a founding father of the modern bourbon industry, being regarded as such due to accomplishment like: patenting his own sour mash technique, financing, overseeing and modernizing numerous distilleries of the time, introducing equipment and methods to achieve new levels of quality, all while also being the owner and operator of what is now known as the Buffalo Trace Distillery. As a special tribute to his legacy, Buffalo Trace has recreated a sour mash technique which would have been used during his tenure. The first of possibly several releases that takes the namesake of a true bourbon aristocrat.

-E. H. Taylor Old Sour Mash (Limited quantities)

We also received a small allotment of the long awaited Buffalo Trace Experimental Collection. This years releases are categorized as being rediscovered, meaning they were inventory the distillery had lost track of several years ago. The still proof and barrel entry proof are unknown. What is known is that these killer bourbons set the bar pretty high!

-Buffalo Trace Experimental 21 year
-Buffalo Trace Experimental 19 year
-Buffalo Trace Experimental 17 year

If you look closely in the back ground you might recognize a familiar face, apparently angels aren't the only ones who envy this bourbon. Created by Lincoln Henderson, the man behind Woodford Reserve and most of the other Brown-Forman whiskeys over the last 30 years, comes Angels Envy. A premium bourbon in the 5-6 year range finished in port barrels. This will be there base brand, and what an awesome one at that, with more limited releases to come.

Bam! Time to do some drinking...........

Nate

Willett Family Estate lands in San Francisco

2011-04-17T17:04:00.000-07:00

Hey Bourbon Brethren,

I know I know, you've had many sleepless nights waiting for the Willett Family Estate line to be released, believe me I have to. But the day has finally arrived and we got another couple gems to boot. So come on in and get your bourbon fix. Also I should have a couple more Willett releases over the next few weeks. New in:

-Willett Family Estate 6 year Barrel strength single barrel
-Willett Family Estate 19 year Barrel strength single barrel
-Healthy Spirits Exclusive Evan Williams single barrel
-Parker's Heritage 10 year wheated barrel strength

Boo-Ya

Nate

April Bourbon Club ready for pick up!

2011-04-15T21:28:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Bourbon Club is ready for pick up. This month we are featuring our Healthy Spirits barrel of Elijah Craig 18 year. All of us at the shop got to try it during the selection process and can attest to its awesomeness. Cheers!

Nate

Scotch, Scotch, Scotch!!!!!

2011-04-07T18:39:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Our shelves are currently over flowing with amazing Scotch. We just scooped up the last 4 bottles of Peat Monster Reserve Edition 1.75 Liter available in the Bay Area. And if that wasn't enough we got a small allotment of Talisker 18 year, a Scotch that has been unavaible for about a year. It apparently sold out through our distributor in one day, and now we're being told won't be available again till next year, so enjoy it while you can! Here's the new arrivals:

-Compass Box The Peat Monster Reserve Edition 1.75 Liter
-Glenmorangie Finealta Private Edition Single Malt (re-created recipe from 1903)
-Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban 12 Year Port Cask Finished Single Malt
-Glenmorangie The Original 10 Year Single Malt
-Macallan 18 Year Single Malt
-Macallan 15 Year Fine Oak Single Malt
-Talisker 18 Year Single Malt (Extremely Limited)
-Laphroaig Quarter Cask Double Matured Single Malt
-Glenfiddich 18 Year Single Malt

Cheers!

Nate

Healthy Spirits Exclusive Elijah Craig 18 Year Bourbon has landed!

2011-04-05T17:20:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

What a beautiful day to drink some bourbon right? I am ridiculously excited to announce the arrival of our Healthy Spirits exclusive Elijah Craig 18 year barrel. Doesn't it look pretty damn sexy? And there's just something about 18 year olds........

Enjoy!

Nate

New in: Compass Box Sampler Set!

2011-03-24T16:49:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Happy to announce we are one of the privileged shops in San Francisco to get the first release of the Compass Box sampler sets. These are some of my favorite Scotch Whiskys currently and this is a fun way to familiarize yourself with a brand that everyone is talking about. The set includes:

-Asyla
-Oak Cross
-Spice Tree
-The Peat Monster
-Hedonism

Check these out!

Nate

New Arrivals: Big Bottom Whiskeys

2011-03-23T15:20:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Got some new, highly anticipated bourbons from an Oregon based whiskey bottler in today. I'll let the company regale you with the details:

3 Year Old American Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Aged in new white oaks casks, our American straight bourbon consists of 36% rye. The complexity of the whiskey contains spicy undertones of cloves with a twist of honeysuckles. The pleasing balances of the spice create a long, smooth finish.

2 Year Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Port Cask Finish
Our 2 year old straight bourbon has been aged in new white oaks casks and consists of 36% rye. It is finished in 10 year old Tawny Port Barrels. The youthfulness of the bourbon with the age of the tawny port barrels make a perfect match on the palate, creating a longer finish.

You want these!

Nate

March Bourbon Club ready for pick up!

2011-03-15T12:47:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

It's what we've all been waiting for, Parker's Heritage / Blanton's. Cards have been charged and the bottles are awaiting you at the shop. These bourbons are epic. Cheers!

Nate

New Arrivals: Bulleit Rye, Knob Creek Single Barrel and Old Potrero Hotaling's

2011-03-04T17:03:00.000-08:00

Hey all,

Got some awesome new releases in the shop. The folks at Jim Beam decided to release a special single barrel version of their acclaimed Knob Creek bourbon. Also finally got the long awaited Bulleit Rye, which struck me as remarkably smooth and floral when I tried it, a slight contrast from their more robust release of Bulleit Bourbon. New in:

-Knob Creek Single Barrel 60%(120 proof)
-Bulleit Rye 45%(90 proof)
-Old Potrero Hotaling's 15 year single malt 50%(100 proof)

Master Distiller from Four Roses visits Healthy Spirits!

2011-01-27T16:27:00.000-08:00

Had a very special guest visit the shop today, Master Distiller Jim Rutledge of Four Roses. He was definitely a class act all the way, and had such an eager willingness to teach us about his craft, a remarkable historian for the bourbon industry. I'm already a die hard fan of Four Roses bourbon, now I can happily say I'm a believer in the man behind the brand. As an added bonus Jim was kind enough to sign every bottle of Four Roses we have in the store, so for a limited time come and get a bottle signed by the Distiller himself at no extra charge. Your welcome, Cheers!

Grand Pappy

January Bourbon Club Ready For Pick Up

2011-01-17T19:14:00.000-08:00

Hey all,

Guess what? I bet you didn't even remember, but it's your birthday! I'm totally not joking at all, so here's your birthday bourbon. Bourbon Club is ready for pick up, featuring Malt Advocates 2007 Best American Whiskey, Old Forester Birthday Reserve 12 year bourbon. Oh man this is good stuff, enjoy.

Nate

New Arrivals: Rittenhouse Rye and Healthy Spirits Exclusive Eagle Rare Barrel

2010-12-29T20:01:00.000-08:00

Hey all,

Got some great news, two long long, long awaited arrivals. First off we finally got our Healthy Spirits exclusive bottling of Eagle Rare 10yr single barrel. Myself, Rami and Dave, and several happy customers that walked in at the right time, tried many many barrel samples, trying to find just the right one. I personally think this is the best bottling of Eagle Rare I have ever tasted and am proud to have our Healthy Spirits name on it! Here's the barrel we selected:

Barrel Lot#: 00-D-13
Bbl Location: C-5-14
Barrel#: 128

Also finally got Rittenhouse Rye 100 proof bottled in bond back in stock. This one has been unavailable for the better part of a year, as the rye whiskey shortage and increasing demand for rye whiskey continues. This is just a phenomenal whiskey, and with a price in the mid $20's, there really is nothing like it in the market. This will kick your whiskey cocktails up a couple notches! Cheers

Nate

New Arrivals: Willett Rye, Pappy Van Winkle 23yr, 20yr and 15yr, George T. Stagg

2010-12-22T18:02:00.000-08:00

Hey friends,

Got some pretty sweet releases today. Willett just put out a 2 year single barrel cask strength unfiltered rye, and let me tell you it is mind blowing. We usually have to wait till April each year for the Family Estate Single Barrel line, but this year they wanted to hit us with one for the holidays, Merry Christmas indeed. Also got a very limited second run on the Van Winkle line and Sazerac Antique line. New in:

-Willett Single Barrel Cask Strength Rye
-Pappy Van Winkle 23yr
-Pappy Van Winkle 20yr
-Pappy Van Winkle 15yr
-George T. Stagg
-Thomas H. Handy Sazerac Rye

Have a fantastic Non Denominational Holiday Season!

Grand Pappy

Bourbon Club December ready for pick up!

2010-12-22T17:31:00.000-08:00

Hey all,

If you haven't already gotten it, Bourbon Club is ready for pick up. This month we are featuring Four Roses Single Barrel bourbon, an absolutely exquisite high rye content bourbon which is truly one of my favorites. Members also receive 2 Four Roses tumblers so they can enjoy this bourbon proper. Cheers!

Nate

New Scotch Arrivals: Talisker DE, Lagavulin 12yr and DE, Compass Box!

2010-11-30T23:25:00.000-08:00

Hey Friends,

This being a bourbon blog its important that our focus is keeping you up to date on new releases and insider details related to our favorite American brown spirit. But as an enthusiast and purveyor of whiskeys (whiskys) from all over the world, I'd like to take you on a quick detour to one of my personal favorite spirits, Scotch whisky. The holiday season is chalk full of limited releases both here and on the other side of the pond. The Classic Malts offer some interesting limited Scotch whiskys called Distiller's Editions. They are essentially wine barrel finished offerings but are distinct because each distiller works masterfully to pair their whisky with a wine cask that best suits their unique flavor profile. Check out these new arrivals:

-Talisker Distiller's Edition 1999
-Lagavulin Distiller's Edition 1994
-Oban Distiller's Edition 1993
-Cragganmore Distiller's Edition 1992
-Lagavulin 12yr Cask Strength
-Octomore (Peatiest whisky in the world)
-Ardbeg Corryvreckan

Also, as if that's not enough, we finally brought in some fantastic whiskys from Compass Box. John Glaser, a whisky maker and master blender, achieves some incredible flavor profiles by blending together single malt scotch whiskys. These are straight up mind blowing for the price.

-Peat Monster
-Spice Tree
-Oak Cross

Come and get it!

Nate

Pappy Van Winkle and Sazerac Anitque Collection now on the shelves!

2010-11-19T18:13:00.000-08:00

Hey friends,

What an awesome day to be a bourbon fan. Just received my allocation of Van Winkle and Sazerac Antique lines for the holidays. There is a lot less of it to go around this year, so its gonna sell out even faster if that's even possible. Come and get it while you can.

On the shelves:
-Pappy Van Winkle 23yr
-Pappy Van Winkle 20yr
-Pappy Van Winkle 15yr
-Van Winkle 12yr
-Van Winkle Reserve 13yr Rye
-Rip Van Winkle 10yr 90proof
-Rip Van Winkle 10yr 107proof
-George T. Stagg
-William L. Weller
-Eagle Rare 17yr
-Sazerac 18yr Rye
-Thomas H. Handy Rye

You want these!

Nate

Old Potrero 18th Century and Straight Rye Whiskey in Stock!

2010-11-09T19:16:00.000-08:00

Hey all,

We've had a lot of requests for this fantastic locally made Rye Whiskey from Anchor Steam, and I'm happy to say we got a few precious bottles in today. I'm hoping to get a few more by the end of the week but as you all know this little gem flies off the shelves pretty quick. Don't sleep on this one.

New on the Shelves:
-Old Potrero 18th Century Style Rye
-Old Potrero Straight Rye Whiskey
-Michter's 10yr Single Barrel Rye
-Michter's Small Batch American Whiskey
-Four Roses Barrel Strength 2010 Limited Edition
-WoodFord Reserve Master's Collection Maple Wood Finish
-Old Forester Birthday Reserve 12yr

Cheers!

Nate

Whisky Fest comes to San Francisco

2010-10-09T20:56:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful day it was to be a whisky enthusiast yesterday. Whisky Fest is San Francisco's biggest and best whisky tasting all year, put on by Malt Avocate's Publisher and Editor John Hansell. So enamored and captivated by this event was I that I'm even using the non-bourbon spelling of whisky (which can also be spelled: whiskey).

Aaaaaah where to begin. In addition to featuring virtually every whisky on the planet there was a decent amount of educational seminars. Some of the stand out speakers included: Parker Beam (Master Distiller Heaven Hill), Rachel Barrie (Creator/Master Blender Ardbeg), Henry Preiss (Preiss Imports/Anochor Spirits), Steve Beal (Master of Whisky), Simon Brooking (Laphroaig), and many more.

Some of my personal highlights included: chatting with industry legends Julian and Preston Van Winkle, trying Buffalo Trace's 2010 releases of the Antique line, due to hit shelves next month, trying Ardbeg's full Scotch line up next to two custom Ardbeg Choppers made specifically for the event, and meeting John Hansell of Malt Advocate.

My favorite Whiskys of the event:

Hudson (Tuhilltown Spirits, NY): There has been so much hype about this particular distillery the last few years, couple that with the fact that their one of the few micro distilleries making whisky, and this was an absolute must try for me. Let me just say that I was absolutely blown away. These guys take serious pride in every step of the process from choosing only the finest locally grown New York corn and grains to even playing music for the whisky as it slumbers in barrels. Apparently the vibration from the bass helps add flavor and character to the whisky, and with a product this good they might be on to something. Over all my favorite whisky in the line was the four grain bourbon.

Michter's (Kentucky): Michter's was the first licensed distillery in American history, but it has been closed for some 20+ years. However the brand was bought and is now made by another distillery in Kentucky following the original recipe that dates back to 1753. Let me just say wow! I was frankly impressed by the entire line up which includes: small batch bourbon(6yr), 10yr single barrel bourbon, 25yr single barrel bourbon, single barrel rye, 10yr single barrel rye, 25yr single barrel rye and an American whisky. I strongly recommend trying these when you get a chance.

Ardbeg (Scotland, Islay): Absolutely love this distillery for continuing to push the envolope, as I'm sure most peat enthusiasts would agree. I have to say the differences in flavor profile between the Roller Coaster and Super Nova are subtle at best, but being that Super Nova is one of the most sought after and flavorful "peat monsters" on the market that's not really a problem. The winner for me in the line up was the 1990 Nam Beist. It's the only juice from the distillery that was made before the distillery closed down during the mid-90's, and it's also the oldest release at 18 years old. It has the fantastic in your face peaty, smoky, stoney minerality that Ardbeg is known for, with a great rich oak character from the 18 year aging which really balances it out. Nam Beist is also pretty close to retirement as only a few precious bottles remain. I have some at the shop so get it while you can.

Pappy Van Winkle (Kentucky): I can't bring myself to end this review without mentioning the Van Winkle brand of bourbons. I myself am no stranger to their legendary line of bourbon and unless your new to the whisky world you aren't either. Julian and Preston are a class act all around, and it was nice to finally meet them. Their bourbon is simply the best in the world. I don't care what bourbon you want to challenge me with, even your mythical bourbon from space made with ancient mayan corn, barley from the top of Mount Everest and rye from the Moon, my Van Winkle bourbon is still going to beat yours head to head. Oh yeah and the Van Winkle line is due to hit shelves at the end of the month, your welcome.

You stay classy San Francisco

Nate

New Rye Whiskeys and several back in stock!

2010-09-21T12:43:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Today is a happy day as we are absolutely bursting with great Ryes. Some have been unavailable the entire summer. As many of you know their is a significant shortage of Rye Whiskeys these days. This is mostly the result of unforeseen spikes in Rye consumption and sales, and understandably it's not exactly easy to up the supply of something that takes several years to make. Also just FYI I'm down to my last 3 bottles of Russell's Reserve 6yr Rye. This item has been re-assigned to restaurants and bars only permanently. Almost all retail shops are out at this point so savor each precious drop if you happen to get your hands on one of these.

New Ryes:
-Whistle Pig 10yr Rye, made in Vermont with 100% rye.
-Copper Fox 12 month Rye, made in Virginia with 2/3 rye and 1/3 barley, aged in bourbon barrels with applewood and cherrywood chips. Very elegant with flavorful fruit notes even at its younger age.
-(RI)1 Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey

Back in stock:
-Hudson Manhattan Rye, Tuthilltown Spirits New York
-Sazerac 6yr Rye
-Russell's Reserve 6yr Small Batch Rye

Bourbon Club ready for pick up!

2010-09-21T11:39:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Glad to be back in the City after a much needed vacation. This month's Bourbon Club is Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit Single Barrel Bourbon. All members have been charged and your bottle is anxiously awaiting meeting it's owner, enjoy. If your not currently a Bourbon Club member, well what are you waiting for, come sign up at the store any time you like. I have more details about the club on the left side of this blog.

Cheers!

Nate

Will be on vacation next week

2010-08-28T19:10:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

Heading off to burning man next week, should be another amazing year. The sense of community, friendship and unwavering humanity never ceases to amaze me. Please direct all questions and inquires to Dave and Rami at the shop during my absence. Thank you kindly

Store phone: 415-255-0610
Email: healthyspirits.sanfrancisco@gmail.com

Nate

New Arrivals: Marker's Mark 46, Four Roses 100th Anniversary

2010-07-23T17:39:00.000-07:00

Hey all,

The long awaited release of Marker's Mark 46 is finally here. I just put some 46 on the shelves today and let me tell you it is an exquisite bourbon. This is the first time Marker's Mark has ever released an extra aged version of its regular recipe, with the extra time in barrels and added oak staves roasted to a level 46 char really contributing to a richer depth and ultra smooth finish. You want this!

New on the shelves:
-Marker's 46 Bourbon
-Four Roses 100th Anniversary 17yr Bourbon
-Kentucky Vintage Bourbon
-Michter's 10yr Single Barrel Bourbon
-Wathen's Single Barrel Bourbon
-Buck 8yr Bourbon
-High West Bourye (Blend of straight bourbon and rye)
-(ri)1 Rye Whiskey
-Redemption Rye

Come and get it!

Grand Pappy

A.H. Hirsch 16 year Pot Still Reserve Bourbon now in stock!

2010-06-23T22:02:00.000-07:00

It's a beautiful day for Healthy Spirits my friends. To quote a line from one of my favorite movies:

"Strong men also cry....strong men also cry"

Barely holding back the tears myself, it's an honor and a privilege to announce the arrival of the one and only A.H Hirsch 16 year Pot Still Reserve Bourbon!

There are numerous reasons why this is considered the best bourbon ever made. The story begins at the Michter's Distillery in Pennsylvania where this bourbon was produced. Michter's was the oldest licensed distillery in American history, with roots as early as 1753, until it closed in 1988. The distillery also had the distinction of being the only producer of pot stilled bourbons after prohibition, making A.H. Hirsch 16 year the last pot stilled bourbon of it's era. Pot stilled bourbons have long been relics of an earlier time, mostly being replaced by column stilled these days.

After the distillery closed in 1988 Adolf H. Hirsch, a former executive of Schenley Co., bought up some of the left over lots of 16 and 20 year whiskey, and bottled it under his own label. In 1994 it was this bourbon, specifically the A.H. Hirsch 16 year, that received the first five star rating ever awarded from the renowned Spirit Journal publication, cementing it's legacy as bourbon royalty. Currently A.H Hirsch has the oldest distillation date of any bourbon on the market, having been made in 1974, and since the Michter's Distillery has been closed for 20+ years the few precious bottles that were left have mostly all dried up.

Taking that all into account, this is the holy grail of bourbons my friends. This is the absolute last bottling, never to grace the shelves of your local watering hole again. Just a fair warning it's a little price prohibitive, but if you don't mind skipping a rent or mortgage payment, your reward is one of the most sought after bourbons of all time. Plus it comes in a really fancy wooden humidor, so once you drink the bottle you got a nice place to keep your stogies........

Other new stuff:
-Old Grand Dad 114 proof Bourbon
-Rebel Reserve wheated Bourbon
-Jim Beam Black 8 year Bourbon
-Old Crow 3 year Bourbon (yes it's cheap, but it's damn good)

Thats all I got, Cheers!

Nate

Old Rip Van Winkle Bourbon Smoked Fish!

2010-06-18T22:39:00.000-07:00

I usually reserve this space for Bourbon posts, but when you get your hands on some of the best smoked fish around I think we can make an exception, and oh yeah did I mention they use Van Winkle Bourbon!!!!!!!

Shuckman's Fish Co. and Smokey has been wowing patrons with premium quality seafood since 1919. Based in Louisville Kentucky, they have a wonderful assortment of caviar, seafood spreads and smoked fish. My favorite are the Bourbon smoked fish, which are now available at Healthy Spirits. Check the selection:

-Smoked Alder Salmon with Van Winkle Bourbon: Hot smoked for 10 hours
-Smoked Nova Salmon with Van Winkle Bourbon: Cold smoked for 8 hours and sliced thin
-Smoked Kentucky Rainbow Trout with Van Winkle Bourbon: Hot smoked slowly with Hickory Wood

Come and get it!

Nate

New Bourbons in Stock!

2010-06-18T21:53:00.000-07:00

Got some new arrivals in our unending quest to carry every Bourbon in existence. Don't see your favorite Bourbon on our Menu on the left side of this page, then shoot me a message and I'll do my best to track it down.

-Willett 20yr unfiltered special release bourbon
-Willett 8yr unfiltered barrel proof special release bourbon
-Willett 6yr unfiltered barrel proof special release bourbon
-Hirsch Selection Small batch bourbon
-Wild Turkey Tradition Master Distillers Selection 14yr bourbon
-Wild Turkey American Spirit 15 yr bourbon
-Jim Beam Distillers Series 7yr bourbon

We are overflowing with bourbon these days, and ready and willing to help you sort through the maze. See you at the shop!

Nate

New Arrivals: Black Maple Hill 16yr, Parker's Heritage 27 yr

2010-05-30T19:40:00.000-07:00

Hey Friends,

Got some new Bourbons for you to swirl in your glass in a contemplative manner.

-Black Maple Hill 16yr Bourbon
-Parker's Heritage 27yr Bourbon

These are some of the best whiskeys around, produced in tiny quantities as a one time offering. So once there gone, c'est la vie.

Back in Stock:

Pappy Van Winkle 15yr
Old Rip Van Winkle 10yr 107 proof
W.L. Weller 12yr

Cheers!
Grand Pappy

Willett Single Barrel Limited Release Bourbons have landed!

2010-04-28T18:02:00.000-07:00

It is a happy day for Healthy Spirits my friends. I'm proud to announce the first ever appearance of the Willett Family Estate Bottled Single Barrel Bourbons. Take a moment to let that soak in (brief pause), yes the day has finally arrived.

These special Willett bottlings are pretty much the most limited release bourbons on the planet. The 16yr batch we received produced only 120 bottles and the 13yr had only 152 bottles. Both were bottled at barrel proof and unfiltered so all the oils and proteins that give bourbon great depth and flavor are still present. Believe me, you want these.

New Arrivals:

Willett 16yr single barrel 69.5% (wheated recipe)
Willett 13yr single barrel 62%
Jefferson's 17yr Presidential 47% (wheated recipe)
Black Maple Hill Small Batch 47.5%
Old Fitzgerald 12yr Special Reserve 45%

I should have a couple more vintages of the Willett special releases due in next week, and if you haven't tried the Black Maple Hill Bourbon yet, give it a go because its arguably the best bang for your buck on the market. Yippie Ki Yay!

Grand Pappy

New Arrivals: Rittenhouse 25yr Rye and Rittenhouse Rye Bottled in Bond

2010-04-23T21:59:00.000-07:00

Did you know Rye Whiskey has become one of the hottest selling spirits in the market? It makes sense too, before prohibition it was America's favorite Whiskey and out sold all others including Bourbon. Heck in 1791 early Americans orchestrated a "Whiskey Rebellion" to fight the taxation of their beloved Rye Whiskey. The Rye Whiskey trend has increased so much that manufacturers are actually having a tough time meeting demand, and won't be able to increase supply anytime soon as Whiskey must sleep in wood many years before its ready.

Never fear my friends, Healthy Spirits is here to meet all your Rye needs. In addition to a nice variety of Ryes we already carry (click on our bourbon menu on the left side of this page), we have finally added the historic Rittenhouse Rye bottled in bond and the Rittenhouse 25yr single barrel Rye. I could write a lot about these Ryes as I really think there second to none, but I'll let Heaven Hill regale you with their press release:

"In what can only be termed an upset of Final Four proportions, Heaven Hill Distilleries' Rittenhouse Bottled-In-Bond Rye Whisky was named "North American Whiskey of the Year" at the recently-completed 2006 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. The annual competition is among the most prestigious spirits competitions in the global distilled spirits industry, judged by a panel of industry luminaries.

In capturing the trophy for top North American Whiskey, Rittenhouse first had to be judged a double gold medal winner in its Rye Whiskey class, meaning it was unanimously awarded gold medal by all judges in a blind tasting. It then had to top all other double gold medal winners in the North American Whiskey category, including Bourbons, Canadian Whiskies, and a number of artisinal spirits made by smaller "boutique" micro-distilleries. And the Rittenhouse Bottled-In-Bond, a traditional rye made in a time-honored method, left these much more heavily advertised and merchandised whiskeys in the dust on its way to the title.

"Historically, rye whiskey has been the ultimate expression of classic American whiskey style, and we at Heaven Hill Distilleries were one of only three remaining producers to keep the style alive during the lean years when rye was overshadowed by Bourbon and Scotch and Irish Whiskeys " said Kirstin Jackson, brand manager, Rittenhouse Rye Whisky. "As the desire for a broader selection of styles and flavors grows in the American Whiskey category, it is only natural that rye whiskey should reclaim its former position of prominence, because it is generally regarded as the most flavorful of the United States' whiskey styles. This award properly affords rye whiskey the recognition it deserves, and for Rittenhouse to have bested such highly-regarded competition is a tribute to the fact that things don't necessarily have to be 'new and improved' to be judged the very best."

Rittenhouse Rye Whisky was originally launched upon the repeal of Prohibition by the Continental Distilling Company of Philadelphia, and was subsequently acquired by Heaven Hill Distilleries, the nation's largest independent family-owned spirits producer and the second largest holder of aging American Whiskey in the world. Heaven Hill continued to produce the brand during the years when rye whiskey went largely ignored, despite its historic role in the Whisky Rebellion of 1791 and the iconography of Mike Hammer and The Thin Man. Now available in limited supply in select areas of the United States, Rittenhouse Rye was also named "Whiskey of the Year" for 2005 by Wine & Spirits Magazine, and last summer Esquire called it "one of the best American Whiskeys at any price"."

Not to shabby, that deserves a big taaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarnation!

Come and get it

Grand Pappy

New Arrivals: Kentucky Bourbon Distillers

2010-04-01T17:57:00.000-07:00

1. Willett Single Barrel
2. Kentucky Vintage 17 year
3. Noah's Mill
4. Rowan's Creek
5. Pure Kentucky XO
6. Johnny Drum Private Stock
7. Old Bardstown Estate
8. Prichard's 9 year Double Barrel

You want these! Also look out for the Willett special cask strength releases due to hit shelves in April.........

Grand Pappy

Hudson Baby!

2010-03-03T21:09:00.000-08:00

Putting New York back on the map for artisan small production spirits is Tuthilltown Distillery and their critically acclaimed Hudson Whiskey! Before prohibition many farms in New York would distill excess grains and fruits into small batch spirits. Once a breeding ground for fantastic rye and other whiskey, New York has been without a whiskey producer for the last 70 some years. Enter Tuthilltown who in 2001 decided to convert a mill granary into a micro distillery. Hats off gentlemen! Hudson Baby Bourbon: The first Bourbon ever to come out of New York is unique with its use of 100% corn, instead of the traditional corn, rye and barley. It may be young for a bourbon but is imparted with a concentrated oak flavor from special small oak barrels that help increase the barrel to whiskey ratio.

Hudson Four Grain Bourbon: A more traditional bourbon entry that brings together the ingredients of corn, wheat, rye and barley in a symphony of flavors. The end result balances the soft richness of corn, the sharp peppery notes of rye, all the smooth subtlety of wheat and the sweetness of malted barley.

Hudson Manhattan Rye: The quintessential ingredient in a Manhattan cocktail will always be a good rye. With a subtle fruity, floral and peppery yet smooth taste you'd be well advised to serve this highly acclaimed rye neat, or with a splash of spring water. This is a worthy tribute to one of America's pre prohibition favorites.

Come and get it!

Grand Pappy

Parker's Heritage Golden Anniversary has arrived in San Francisco

2010-02-27T21:42:00.000-08:00

Parker's Heritage Golden Anniversary Bourbon has finally arrived at Healthy Spirits and in case you hadn't heard it was just crowned "American Whiskey of the Year" by John Hansell of Malt Advocate. This is the third release in the tribute series that pays homage to sixth generation master distiller Parker Beam. To commemorate his 50 years in the industry he has hand selected a bourbon from each decade of his tenure and married them together to make this amazingly refined spirit. That means this tiny production bourbon (only 1,500 bottles) contains whiskey asleep in oak barrels since the 60's and 70's.

"Very well balanced and mellow on the nose and palate. Sweet notes of mature dark rum, toffee, nougat and candy corn with dried apricot, golden raisin, hot cinnamon, mint tea, and vanilla. Polished leather and tobacco lead to a long, contemplative finish. This is what an ultra-mature bourbon should taste like: all the depth and complexity that comes with this much aging without all the excessive oak. The wood is there, but it never crosses the line."

Stay thristy my friends

Grand Pappy Nate

New Arrivals: Pappy Van Winkle, W.L. Weller, Buffalo Trace Experimental

2010-02-05T19:56:00.000-08:00

Got some fun new stuff in today, all very limited quantities so
get it while you can:

Buffalo Trace Experimental Collection:
-1993 Double Barreled Bourbon
-1997 Double Barreled Bourbon

Four Roses:
-Mariage Barrel Proof 2009 Collection
-Single Barrel
-Small Batch

W.L. Weller 12yr Wheated Bourbon

Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve 23yr
Pappy Van Winkle Family Reserve 20yr
Van Winkle Special Reserve 12yr
Old Rip Van Winkle 10yr 90 Proof

You want these!

Nate

New arrivals: Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit, Rare Breed

2010-01-23T22:30:00.000-08:00

Wild Turkey originally began as a wholesale grocer called Austin Nichols in 1855. In 1869 they opened their first distillery then called the Ripy Family Distillery. Their reputation as a premium Bourbon producer began to grow over the next few decades, culminating in its selection to represent Kentucky in the 1893 world's fair. Many years later, post prohibition, a group of wild turkey hunters tried some of the Bourbon brought by one of the distillery's executives. It became such a favorite they asked if he could bring that "Wild Turkey" Bourbon along on each annul hunt. As a tribute to his friend's good taste the Wild Turkey brand was formed in 1940.

Here are some of the fantastic Wild Turkey Bourbons you can find at Health Spirits:

-Kentucky Spirit Single Barrel Bourbon: Hand selected at the peak of maturity this rich full bodied bourbon shows a complex layering of vanilla, almonds, honey, toffee, blackberries and leather.

-Rare Breed Barrel Proof Bourbon: A unique blending of 6, 8, and 12 year old bourbons. This ultra smooth bourbon has flavors of caramel, orange, mint, sweet tobacco, roasted nuts, hot peppers and whole wheat bread.

-Russell's Reserve 10 year Bourbon: Show casing what the master distiller believes to be a "wonderful stage of maturity for a bourbon" we have this 10 year entry. Rich notes of vanilla, toffee, oak, almonds, chilli peppers, cumin and leather.

-Russell's Reserve 6 year Rye: A bright and robust rye offering with notes of caramel, toffee, pepper corns, chillies and cedar.

-Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon: Jimmy Russell likens his 101 bourbon to a great soup, low and slow is key. In this case the bourbon is distilled closer to bottling proof, which retains more of the flavor and doesn't require as much dilution. Notes of honey, caramel, vanilla and oranges with a spicy kick at the end.

Come and get it!

Nate

San Francisco's Best Bourbon Shop

2010-01-09T19:44:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Healthy Spirits Bourbon Blog. Here we will be keeping you up to date on the lastest Bourbon arrivals at our store, feature a special Bourbon every month and do our best to explain and inform you about everything Bourbon! For starters here's a list of everything we carry to date:

Pappy Van Winkle's 23yr Bourbon
Pappy Van Winkle's 20yr Bourbon
Pappy Van Winkle's 15yr Bourbon
Pappy Van Winkle's 23yr Glassware and Decanter set
Van Winkle Special Reserve 12yr Bourbon
Old Rip Van Winkle 10yr barrel proof Bourbon
WoodFord Reserve Master's Collection
Parker's Heritage Golden Anniversary Collection
George T. Stagg barrel proof 16yr Bourbon
Thomas H. Handy Sazerac 7yr barrel proof Rye Whiskey
W. L. Weller 15yr barrel proof Wheat Bourbon
Eagle Rare 17yr Bourbon
Eagle Rare 10yr Single Barrel
Sazerac 18yr Rye Whiskey currently out of stock
Sazerac 6yr Rye Whiskey
Old Petrero Straight Rye Whiskey
Old Petrero 18th Century Style Rye Whiskey (uncharred oak barrels)
Old Petrero Hotaling's 14yr Single Malt
Blanton's Single Barrel Bourbon
Jefferson's Reserve Very Old Small Batch Bourbon
Jefferson's Very Small Batch Bourbon
Sam Houston Rare Old Bourbon
Rock Hill Farms Single Barrel Bourbon
Elijah Craig 18yr Single Barrel Bourbon
Elijah Craig 12yr Bourbon
Russell's Reserve Small Batch 10yr Bourbon
Russell's Reserve Small Batch 6yr Rye Whiskey
Ezra B. Single Barrel 12yr Bourbon
Elmer T. Lee Single Barrel Bourbon
WoodFord Reserve Kentucky Derby 134 Bourbon
WoodFord Reserve Distiller's Select Bourbon
Old Pogue Master's Select Bourbon
Michter's Small Batch Bourbon
Michter's Single Barrel Rye Whiskey
Baker's Small Batch 7yr Bourbon
Basil Hayden 8yr Bourbon
Booker's True Barrel Bourbon Wooden Box Set
Hirsch Selction 20yr American Whiskey (Bourbon Mash)
Evan Williams Single Barrel Bourbon
Evan Williams Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Henry McKenna Single Barrel 10yr Bourbon
Old Forester Birthday Reserve Bourbon
Buffalo Trace Experimental Collection Double Barreled
Buffalo Trace Bourbon
Maker's Mark Bourbon
Hudson Baby Bourbon
Hudson Four Grain Bourbon
Hudson Manhattan Rye
1792 Ridgemont Reserve Barrel Select 8yr
Knob Creek Small Batch 9yr
Bulleit Bourbon
Jack Daniel's Single Barrel Whiskey
Wild Turkey Kentucky Spirit Single Barrel
Wild Turkey Rare Breed Barrel Proof Bourbon
Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon
Fighting Cock 6yr Bourbon
Old Overholt Rye Whiskey