Editor’s Note: This whiskey was provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. This in no way, per our editorial policies, influenced the final outcome of this review.
You say Utah, I say… distillery? No, it’s not exactly the first thing that comes to mind when considering this particular southwestern state.
Eight Settlers Distillery is named for the history of the area the distillery is in. The distillery is located in Cottonwood Heights, a town that goes back to the nineteenth century (though at that time it was called Butlerville). It was settled by eight families – thus, Eight Settlers.
The distillery is accompanied by a similarly-themed restaurant, with each of the dining rooms paying homage to a different element of the history of the area. Founders Katia and Radu Dugala are no newcomers to any part of the industry. Before starting Eight Settlers they had a bar and restaurant in California, as well as having a prior business in Utah. Radu’s distilling ambition and training started early, when he learned with his grandfather as a child in Romania.
Devil’s Gate, the bourbon I”m reviewing here, is named for a piece of the Utah terrain that was dangerous and impassible for early settlers. Because of Devil’s Gate (and considering the name, you can tell how the settlers felt about it) settlers took an alternate route through the state and ended up in the sites of modern day Salt Lake City and Butlerville, which of course became Cottonwood Heights.
It seems this on expanse of quartz played really an influential role in not just whiskey but greater American history, so it feels apt that it gets its own bourbon.
Tasting Notes: Eight Settlers Devil’s Gate Bourbon
Vital Stats: 45% ABV; aged minimum 3 years; 750mL
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Appearance: Quick, even legs, light amber, partially translucent
Nose: Rummy, cloying sweetness, cream cheese frosting, pineapple
Palate: Unexpected considering the nose. Quite thin texture. Only a touch of the sweetness comes through, and just at the back palate.
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