Founded in 2006 by David Perkins and his wife, Jane, in Park City, Utah, High West was Utah's first legal distillery since 1870 and has garnered a reputation for innovation within the whiskey industry.
The Birth of High West
David Perkins, a biochemist by trade, was inspired to start High West after touring the Maker's Mark distillery in Kentucky. He combined his scientific background with his passion for the American West and whiskey to create a distillery that pays homage to the American pioneer spirit. Situated in the Rocky Mountains of Park City, High West began in a historic livery stable and garage, giving it a rustic yet authentic charm.
The Portfolio
The distillery is known for its varied portfolio of spirits, with a particular emphasis on rye whiskey, which has been integral to the brand's identity. Their offerings include both blends of sourced whiskeys and spirits distilled in-house. One of their most iconic products, Rendezvous Rye, is a blend of old and young rye whiskeys, notable for its spicy complexity and smooth finish. They also offer bourbons, limited edition blends, and even vodka under the High West label.
Their product lineup isn’t shy about experimentation; they've produced whiskeys that include unique blends such as Campfire, which famously mixes rye, bourbon, and a peated Scotch, creating a fusion that captures the smoky essence of the western frontier.
Innovative Ageing Techniques
High West takes advantage of Utah's high altitude and dramatic temperature swings to age its whiskey, believing that the location contributes to a faster and more complex ageing process. They also use a variety of barrel types for finishing, including barrels that previously held port, French oak, or white wine, adding nuanced flavours to their whiskeys.
Sustainability and Craftsmanship
The commitment to the environment is evident in its sustainable practices. They use local grains as much as possible, and their distillery restaurant, which operates in conjunction with the original distillery in Park City, sources locally produced ingredients for a farm-to-table dining experience.
Visitor Experience
The High West Distillery and Saloon in Park City, alongside their production facility at the High West Distillery in Wanship, offer visitors a warm, inviting atmosphere with tours and tastings. These locations provide education on the distillation process, the brand's history, and the chance to sample their expansive range of whiskeys.
Awards and Recognition
High West has received significant industry recognition, with numerous awards highlighting the quality of its products. Critical acclaim has come from sources like the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and Whisky Advocate, solidifying its position as a respected name in the world of American whiskey.