A happenstance of a meeting led to a great afternoon of tastings. Wednesday after our TBEX session Kent and I stopped for a beer and that lead us to Four Fights Distilling. It was not a direct path but rather a meeting of kindred spirits path. One random act that lead to a most pleasurable experience. Full disclosure this is not, I repeat not a sponsored post but they owners may have bought me a drink.
Cheers to Beers and spirits in Corning
A quick beer break and our Canadian friendliness lead us to a great little distillery. One of those turn left or right moments and we made the right choice. Sitting in a pub, sipping on a great Pumpkin Ale we struck up a conversation with our table mates. Turns out Robert and his wife own a bed and breakfast that was home to several other TBEX attendees for the week. The topic of the conference and blogging was familiar to them.
Well, there son started a distillery in the area so being great parents they had to drop the hint. They invited us to head over and sample a taste of Corning. Considering the fact that Kent and I are always bragging on about our boys and handing our cards, how could we resist. Proud parents are always a great lead for music, drinks or any other fun thing we can think of right?
Four Fights Distilling
Interesting name, great owners and some very tasty spirits are all rolled up in this little brick building. Four Fights Distilling is a must visit while in Corning, or make a special trip and stay and explore the area. Plus the Matt and his wife make everyone feel very welcome.
FOUR FIGHTS TO A PINT!
“On a scale of 1 to 4, how many fights were you going to get into after drinking a pint of moonshine? Bottom of the barrel rated 1, while the cleanest and strongest shines were rated at 4. So in keeping with tradition, while representing our dedication to quality, we decided on Four Fights Distilling.”
and so a distillery was born with what I think is one of the coolest names ever. Four fights is something many of us can relate too.
Four Fights Distilling
Kent and I sauntered in and immediately spotted the Merchandise Room, never one to pass up shopping I had to take a peak. Tastefully arranged displays, a fun display of t-shirts and even a few local homemade goodies, plus moscow mule cups. Call me sold already.
The actual tasting room was quite spacious. A small bar but great room for socializing. I noticed the collection of Mule cups on the ceiling and just had to ask.Regulars can purchase their own cup, personalize it and it remains hanging for their next visit.
Meet The Distiller
Matthew Bowers, a USMC veteran, he’s about as American as they come; This Corning local turned a passion for whiskey and his a great home liquor into an amazing business. The purchase of a cooper still turned this self proclaimed nerd into a Distillery Owner.
Milling, mashing, fermenting, distilling, bottling, and labeling, if it leads to whiskey he will be doing it. A passion turned business has not lessened his dedication to great tasting spirits.
What they Serve
An amazing array of spirits, this distillery had a few surprises. Normally I am not a big spirit gal, but this one, well let’s just say I finished my tasting. Saddest part of spirit tasting for a Canadian in the US of A- duty restrictions. I truly would have loved to bring several of these bottles home with me.
The Emperials
Emperial Moonshine- this corn whiskey is handcrafted with local corn and barley malt, providing a sweet strong corn flavor, with the smoothness of a single malt whisky.
Emperial Cinnamon– Building on an original classic, the strong corn flavors of this New York whiskey complements the woodsy, aromatic spice of Cinnamon. This complexity brings a sweet and savory tone to an already comforting spirit, smooth on its own, with a lingering bite.
Emperial Apple Pie–Take your time to appreciate the depth of character in this sweet and spiced treat; a tribute to America’s favorite dessert. The warmth and sweetness of spirits and molasses slowly introduce familiar notes of caramel and vanilla, rounding off to the crisp snap of cinnamon-dusted apple.
Other Spirits
Bowers Bourbon– This bourbon hits you with its rich grain flavors, enhanced with strong oak and caramel tones. But wait for the end, the buttery finish will have you coming back for another taste. I am not a bourbon gal, but this one truly tickled my taste buds
Suite 101 Gin -The nose is deeply aromatic with a zesty pop. The juniper is soft and subtle. There is a surprise though a spritz of lime, finishing with a lick of lingering earthy spice. Plus look at the bottle, a feast for the eyes as well as the palette. A gin I can get behind
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Crystal City Vodka– handcrafted from high quality local corn. The softness of this vodka will inspire you to serving it neat, on ice, or even mixed in your favorite cocktail. It is crystal clear that this will be your new favorite vodka
Bowers American Whisky– Soft, woodsy spirit with butterscotch notes and an oaky sweetness to finish. I personally did not sample the whisky but based on the accuracy of the Distillers tasting notes I am guessing this one is also spot on. They did say this is aged in Bourbon Barrels.
Cocktails on the menu
Don’t forget to stick around for a tasty cocktail after your tasting. I was tempted to sample the featured cocktail but opted for a Corning Mule, I mean could one try anything less? Kent stuck with a Gin and tonic. We would have stayed for an extra drink or two but duty called and the Tbex closing was pre scheduled on our agenda. This is one little spot I really hope I get back too. In the meantime let’s show them a little facebook love, hop over and give them a like and check out all they have to offer.
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