The groundbreaking study began in October 2019 when Milam & Greene distilled a single batch of bourbon in Bardstown, Kentucky. Half remained in Kentucky while the other half was immediately shipped to Blanco, Texas, for aging. Both portions were aged in identical 53-gallon barrels for over five years.
“We wanted to better understand how temperature fluctuation between the two environments influences flavor extraction in our whiskey,” said Heather Greene, CEO and Master Blender at Milam & Greene. “The popular hypothesis that the hotter, drier climate significantly differentiates Texas bourbon across the board with higher oak extraction compared to a Kentucky bourbon is a good one, and now you can taste it.”
Kentuckian vs. Texan Maturation
The study revealed significant differences in aging conditions between the two locations. Bardstown experiences colder winters (averaging 40°F in January), warm summers (averaging 86.5°F in July), and higher humidity (65-85%). These conditions created slower evaporation rates of 2-4% annually, resulting in a final proof of 108.
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READ THE STORYIn contrast, Blanco’s climate features milder winters (averaging 60°F in January), substantially hotter summers (averaging 93.7°F in July), and lower humidity (50-60%). Texas barrels experienced rapid temperature fluctuations and evaporation rates exceeding 10% annually, producing a higher final proof of 116.
Chemical analysis identified differences in ten compounds that correlate with sensory elements. Compounds producing woody characteristics showed higher concentration in the Texas-aged bourbon, while the Kentucky bourbon developed stronger fruity and floral notes.
“Individually, each bourbon is delicious, and batched together, the combined bourbons also create gorgeous, complex whiskey,” Greene noted. “This experiment puts a spotlight on everything we do at Milam & Greene as we bring together the best casks aged in different states, or as in our sell-out Wildlife Collection, bringing whiskey down to Blanco to age for extra flavor extraction.”
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Milam & Greene ‘The Answer’
The limited release of 800 cases will be available for $149.99 starting May 28, 2025, at 12:00 PM CDT through the Milam & Greene website, distillery tasting room, and select retailers nationwide.
Consumers can also attend a release party at the Milam & Greene distillery in Blanco, Texas on May 31, featuring Texas Hill Country BBQ, live music, and other festivities.
Greene hopes this project will spark industry conversation, adding, “This is a story of how nature writes itself into whiskey.”
Release Party
Milam & Greene Whiskey will host a public release party at its Blanco distillery on Saturday, May 31, 2025, from 12:00 to 5:00 PM CDT. The celebration at 208 Carlie Lane in Blanco, Texas will feature Texas Hill Country BBQ from a food truck, along with a photo booth and scavenger hunt activities.
Live music will provide entertainment throughout the afternoon, with performances by Kayla Jane & Drew Moreland from 12:00 to 3:00 PM, followed by David Rioux & Friends from 3:30 to 6:00 PM. Attendees will have the opportunity to purchase ‘The Answer’ two-bottle sets while supplies last.
Greene hopes this project will spark industry conversation, adding, “This is a story of how nature writes itself into whiskey.”
