Nestled in Frankfort, Kentucky, Glenn’s Creek Distilling operates on the historic grounds of the legendary Old Crow Distillery. For bourbon enthusiasts, this small-batch distillery is a treasure trove of history, innovation, and one-of-a-kind spirits. Let’s explore what makes Glenn’s Creek and its bourbons truly exceptional.
A Distillery Steeped in History
Glenn’s Creek occupies the former bottling building of the Old Crow Distillery, an iconic name in bourbon’s storied past. Old Crow wasn’t always the bottom-shelf bourbon you might recognize today—it was once the first nationally known bourbon brand and a top seller in the United States.
Dr. James C. Crow revolutionized bourbon production in the 1830s, introducing scientific methods that elevated its quality. Though he passed away in 1856, his legacy lived on. The Old Crow Distillery began operations in 1882, producing bourbon for over a century before it shuttered in 1987.
Fast forward to 2013, when Glenn’s Creek founder David Meier purchased the abandoned distillery property. In 2015, bourbon production resumed in the old bottling building, combining historical reverence with innovative techniques.
Crafting Distinction: Bourbon Production at Glenn’s Creek
Glenn’s Creek produces fewer than 300 barrels annually, making each bottle a rare find. The distillery employs handcrafted pot stills designed in-house and uses a proprietary yeast strain salvaged from Old Crow’s historic fermenter #5. This attention to detail results in bourbons that are both distinctive and steeped in tradition.
Each bourbon is aged at a low barrel entry proof in barrels that are toasted and then charred, enhancing their depth and complexity. Every release is bottled as a single barrel at cask strength, showcasing the unique character of each batch.
OCD #5: The Flagship Bourbon
OCD #5 is Glenn’s Creek’s flagship bourbon and its top seller. Made with a mash bill of 85% corn, 10% rye, and 5% Distillers Barley, it features a sweet and smoky nose with layers of burnt brown sugar, maple candy, toasted corn, and smoky barbecue. This bourbon embodies the heritage and craftsmanship that Glenn’s Creek stands for.
Cafe Ole Bourbon: A Chocolate Lover’s Dream
Cafe Ole Bourbon takes innovation a step further by substituting Chocolate Barley for the Distillers Barley in the mash bill. This roasted barley gives the bourbon notes of dark coffee, bittersweet chocolate, and toasted oak. The result is a rich, unique bourbon that’s perfect for those seeking bold, complex flavors.
A Rare Opportunity for Bourbon Collectors
With distribution limited to just five states, Glenn’s Creek bourbons are rare finds. The Prime Barrel recently had the privilege of selecting two barrels—OCD #5 and Cafe Ole Bourbon. These exclusive picks highlight the craftsmanship and innovation that make Glenn’s Creek a standout among small-batch distilleries.
Experience Glenn’s Creek for Yourself
Visiting Glenn’s Creek Distilling is a journey into bourbon history and innovation. While the historic ruins of the Old Crow Distillery aren’t accessible to the public, the distillery offers occasional walking tours that provide fascinating insights into its legacy and production process.
Small Distillery, Big Innovation
Glenn’s Creek embodies the spirit of a small distillery: creative, daring, and committed to producing bourbon you won’t find anywhere else. Whether it’s the sweet smokiness of OCD #5 or the bold coffee and chocolate notes of Cafe Ole, these bourbons represent the perfect blend of tradition and innovation.