Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/205467
Taking Over the Pack MAGE_STEVE KOWALSKI Western Spirits, makers of Bird Dog Whiskey, has long been at the forefront of the flavored whiskey trend. Klay Kelley of Western Spirits says, "Bird Dog Blackberry was the first brand we created." The Peach and Hot Cinnamon versions were launched last year and Maple last month. "At this point Blackberry is still the consumer's favorite, probably because this was the original Bird Dog. We were first to market with a blackberry whiskey. There were no other similar flavors and so consumers really adopted it because of the unique taste. That's still true today." What's Your Pleasure? Kelley believes that Bird Dog's flavors complement their Kentucky bourbon base due to richness, vibrancy and unique aromas. "They fully showcase their distinctiveness. And with such an PHOTO: JASON KINDIG On the shelf at Goody Goody in the Dallas−Fort Worth area. eclectic assortment, packaged in elegant bottles with cork stoppers reminiscent of days gone by, Bird Dog is the perfect whiskey to enjoy straight up, on the rocks or in a special cocktail." And for those purists who just can't fathom adding blackberries to bottles, there's also a true Bird Dog Bourbon, crafted from a mélange of corn, malted barley and rye. Saving the World One Drop at a Time In addition to producing fine whiskey, Bird Dog naturally supports Ducks Unlimited, the National Wild Turkey Federation, the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, the Quality Deer Management Association, the Coastal Conservation Association, Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever in their missions to conserve land and to preserve and protect scarce wildlife habitat. All part of a day's work for this dog. november 2013 / the tasting panel / 67 TP1113_066-107.indd 67 10/24/13 9:23 AM