Newcomers First Light Coffee Whiskey Recently Released Their First Two Blends

First Light Coffee Whiskey recently debuted with two expressions, both made by mixing organic raw agave and coffee extract into corn whiskey.
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Even in the midst of a global pandemic, the whiskey industry continues to grow. That is proven by the emergence of First Light Coffee Whiskey, a San Diego company founded last year but making its first steps into the American and global markets earlier this year.

Started by cousins and fellow whiskey enthusiasts David Elizondo and Ryan Espinoza, First Light recently released their first two blends: First Light Original Coffee Whiskey and First Light Dark Roast Coffee Whiskey. Utilizing all natural ingredients, First Light’s spirits use all-natural ingredients, mixing organic raw agave and coffee extract into corn whiskey. Where they vary is that, according to the brand, is in the fact the Dark Roast “blends similar high quality ingredients as the original, while showcasing bold, deep coffee notes with hints of chocolate and caramel.”

First Light Coffee Whiskey
The expressions of First Light Coffee Whiskey (image via First Light Coffee Whiskey)

“We wanted to create quality spirits that weren’t filled with artificial flavors or high fructose corn syrup,” said Espinoza, in a prepared statement. “We are excited to introduce First Light to the industry and offer consumers whiskey made of real ingredients to take on their next summit climb or to a family BBQ.”

Quick whisky question

Single malt is everywhere, but what does it mean? We want to know what the word “single” means to you. Three quick questions, under a minute.

Which stages must take place at the same distillery for a whisky to be called “single malt”?

Tick as many as you like

or

Must the barley in a single malt be grown in the same country the whisky is made in?

How would you describe your whisky knowledge?

The larger community is clearly excited about what First Light has to offer, as their whiskeys has already netted three honors from the 2020 SIP Awards. Their Original Coffee Whiskey was awarded a Double Gold, while the Dark Roast Coffee Whiskey was given both a Platinum and Innovation Award.

“Taking home multiple awards from an international consumer tasting competition was a big win for our team,” added Elizondo. “We are listening to our consumers and will continue to deliver unforgettable products aligned with our founding principal: quality without compromise.”

First Light is also working to lessen the environmental impact of their work by donating one percent of all of their proceeds to 1% For The Planet, an organization that gathers funds for approved nonprofits.

Both of First Light’s blends retail for around $28 and are available online and through select U.S. retailers.

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Robert Ham

Robert Ham is an arts and culture journalist based in Portland, Oregon. His work has been featured in prominent publications such as DownBeat, Pitchfork, Rolling Stone, and Village Voice.

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