News & Events

MRD Tasting at Dubs's Liquors in Mansfield

Join Mad River Distillers on Friday, November 8th at the Dubs's Liquors & Fine Wines in Mansfield, MA. There will be complimentary tastings from our line of spirits between 4:00pm-6:00pm. Feel free to ask questions! Bottles l be available for purchase.

MRD Tasting at Curtis Liquors in Cohasset

Join Mad River Distillers on Thursday, November 7th at the Curtis Liquors in Cohasset, MA. There will be complimentary tastings from our line of spirits between 4:00pm-6:00pm. Feel free to ask questions! Bottles l be available for purchase.

By in Media & Events Comments Off on Mad River Distillers Unveils Founders Reserve Rye Whiskey: A Rare and Historic New Release

Mad River Distillers Unveils Founders Reserve Rye Whiskey: A Rare and Historic New Release

Warren, VT — October 2024 — Mad River Distillers is proud to announce the release of its Founders Reserve Rye Whiskey, the oldest whiskey ever released by the distillery and a landmark expression in the history of Vermont whiskey. This exceptional rye, distilled in 2014, has been patiently aging for 10 years in #3 charred American oak barrels at Cold Spring Farm in Warren, VT, making it a whiskey of unparalleled depth and character. With an extremely limited number of barrels produced, the Founder’s Reserve will be available exclusively in Vermont, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.

Founders Reserve Rye Whiskey is crafted from a unique 100% rye mash bill of Danko Rye, complemented with un-malted, malted, and chocolate rye varietals. This careful
selection of grains, and the absence of any barley or other grains, along with a decade of maturation have resulted in a whiskey that balances spice, sweetness, and a depth of flavor and best illustrates the exceptional quality of Mad River Distillers’ early production.

“The release of Founder’s Reserve is not just a milestone for us; it’s a celebration of our commitment to creating outstanding rye whiskey using locally-sourced grains and traditional techniques,” said Maura Connolly, Co-Founder of Mad River Distillers. “We’re thrilled to share this small yet significant piece of our history with whiskey lovers and collectors who appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each bottle.”

Tasting Notes:

• Appearance: Dark amber with a clear, rich hue.
• Nose: Aromas of malt, oak, and subtle cedar meld with sweet undertones.
• Palate: Peppercorn and tobacco lead the way, followed by layered notes of rye spice and malted chocolate.
• Finish: A medium-length sweet finish that leaves a lingering warmth.

Availability & Pricing:

Given its rarity, only a few hundred bottles will be available, making this a treasured find for connoisseurs and collectors. The Founder’s Reserve Rye Whiskey will retail at $84.99 per 750ml bottle, with distribution focused on Vermont, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.

About Mad River Distillers:
Founded in 2011, Mad River Distillers is dedicated to producing small-batch, handcrafted spirits using local and regional ingredients of exceptional quality. With a deep appreciation for the art of distillation and a focus on sustainability, Mad River’s award-winning products have earned a reputation for quality and innovation in the New England spirits industry. Mad River Distillers products are distributed in New England, New York and California.
For more information, visit www.madriverdistillers.com or follow us on social media: @madriverdistillers on Instagram and Facebook.
Media Contact: Mimi Buttenheim, President
Email: mimi@madriverdistillers.com

By in Media & Events Comments Off on Mad River Distillers Launches Summit Single Malt: Elevating the American Single Malt Category

Mad River Distillers Launches Summit Single Malt: Elevating the American Single Malt Category

Warren, VT — October 2024 — Mad River Distillers is excited to announce the release of Summit Single Malt Whiskey, a groundbreaking whiskey that showcases the increasing rising prominence of American single malt in the global whiskey landscape. Distilled from 100% Northeast-grown barley, this first edition is a testament to Mad River Distillers’ dedication to sourcing locally. And while American single malt is enjoying its moment now, this release demonstrates how we began pushing the boundaries of American whiskey craftsmanship several years ago. With a strictly limited barrel production, Summit Single Malt will be exclusively available in Vermont, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.

Crafted from barley gown and malted at partner farms and aged in new, charred American oak barrels, Summit Single Malt exemplifies the distillery’s commitment to producing world-class, terroir-driven spirits. Inspired by the towering peaks of Vermont’s Mount Mansfield and Camel’s Hump, this expression stands at a pinnacle of Mad River Distillers’ decade-long work to crafting unique whiskeys with exceptional character and quality.

“While we have been producing a number of malt and peated whiskies for a while, Summit Single Malt represents the culmination of our effort to create an American single malt that is as distinctive and awe-inspiring as the Green Mountains that surround our distillery,” said John Egan, Co-Founder of Mad River Distillers. “It’s a whiskey that embodies our passion and reflects the rugged beauty and unique heritage of Vermont.”

Tasting Notes:

  • Appearance: Clear, dark amber
  • Nose: A rich bouquet of malt, oak, and subtle sweet vanilla, giving way to faint hints of smoke.
  • Palate: Bold and complex, with layers of caramel, toasted nuts, and a delicate spice, evolving into notes of tobacco and dried fruit.
  • Finish: A smooth, warming finish with lingering sweetness and a touch of oak.

Availability & Pricing:
Summit Single Malt is available in limited quantities, with distribution focused on Vermont, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. The suggested retail price is $84.99 per 750ml bottle, making it an ideal addition to the collection of American Single Malt aficionado.

About Mad River Distillers:
Mad River Distillers has been a pioneer in the craft spirits movement since 2011, creating high-quality, small-batch whiskeys, rums, and apple brandy that celebrate the heritage of the Northeast from a small 150-year old Vermont farm. With a focus on sustainability and locally-sourced ingredients, Mad River is dedicated to producing spirits that capture the essence of the Green Mountains. Mad River Distillers products are distributed in New England, New York and California.
For more information, visit www.madriverdistillers.com or follow us on social media: @madriverdistillers on Instagram and Facebook.
Media Contact: Mimi Buttenheim, President
Email: mimi@madriverdistillers.com

MRD Tasting at Berman's Wine & Spirits in Lexington, MA

Join Mad River Distillers on Friday, November 1st at the Berman's Wine & Spirits in Lexington, MA. There will be complimentary tastings from our line of spirits between 5:00pm-7:00pm. Feel free to ask questions! Bottles will be available for purchase.

MRD Tasting at The Den in Providence

Join Mad River Distillers on Saturday, October 26th at The Den Wine & Spirits in Providence, RI. There will be complimentary tastings from our line of spirits between 4:00pm-7:00pm. Feel free to ask questions! Bottles will be available for purchase.

MRD Tasting at Muckey's Liquors in Middleborough, MA

Join Mad River Distillers on Friday, October 25th at the Muckey's Liquors in Middleborough, MA. There will be complimentary tastings from our line of spirits between 4:00pm-6:00pm. Feel free to ask questions! Bottles will be available for purchase.

MRD Tasting at Marty's Fine Wines in Newton, MA

Join Mad River Distillers on Friday, October 25th at the Marty's Fine Wines in Newton, MA. There will be complimentary tastings from our line of spirits between 3:00pm-5:00pm. Feel free to ask questions! Bottles will be available for purchase.

MRD Tasting at Whole Foods Ink Block

Join Mad River Distillers on Friday, October 25th at the Whole Foods Ink Block location in Boston, MA. There will be complimentary tastings from our line of spirits between 3:00pm-6:00pm. Feel free to ask questions! Bottles will be available for purchase.

MRD Tasting at Blanchard Liquor in Jamaica Plain

Join Mad River Distillers on Friday, October 18th at the Blanchard Liquor in Jamaica Plain, MA. There will be complimentary tastings from our line of spirits between 4:00pm-6:00pm. Feel free to ask questions! Bottles will be available for purchase.

MRD Tasting at Thorpe's Wines and Spirits in East Greenwich, RI

Join Mad River Distillers on Friday, October 18th at the Thorpe's Wines and Spirits in East Greenwich, RI. There will be complimentary tastings from our line of spirits between 4:00pm-7:00pm. Feel free to ask questions! Bottles will be available for purchase.

 

MRD Tasting event at Table & Vine in West Springfield

Explore the Whiskies of Mad River Distilling
Join us to welcome Maura Connolly Co-founder of Mad River for an exploration of Bourbon, Rye and Cocktails from their selection!
Thursday, October 17, 2024 from 6:00pm - 8:00pm.
Tickets: https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Ftableandvine.com%2Fevents%2Fexplore-the-whiskies-of-mad-river-distilling-66f702e754c72428ccb6c6c6%3Ffbclid%3DIwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR3TMAmIGc3HucriAWJw3Mh6hAPxrQp6KRd6TRCDmsegZ2YWAMgrIeN0eUQ_aem_pjNRn-6dQzgprS-YFeS2vA&h=AT011QpxYExJwUgo737HT2AbhgjTWyWnNMsS977tdbvzDWA5zdWfoBnRVICa__83WutPhr1UTu4AoEdZpmNuIuH1dBm6BXol8NNSe9Xb2kG2OX5nveAO4NNY2hN4z2eHcrBqWw

Distillery Dinner featuring MRD at Brady's Restaurant in Leominster

Join Us Wednesday October 16th for a Distillery Dinner Featuring Mad River Distillers. Call or Book Online
https://resy.com/.../mad-river-distillery-dinner-2024-09...
4 courses featuring Mad River’s Maple Cask Rum, Rum 41, Straight Bourbon, & Revolution Rye. All paired with delicious dishes and cocktail pairings. $75 per guest ++, includes 4 food courses, straight tasting of each spirit, and 4 individually crafted cocktails to accompany every course.

MRD Tasting at Bottles in Providence, RI

Join Mad River Distillers on Saturday, October 12th at the Bottles Fine Wine and Spirits in Providence, RI. There will be complimentary tastings from our line of spirits between 3:00pm-6:00pm. Feel free to ask questions! Bottles will be available for purchase.

MRD Tasting at Kappy's Fine Wine and Spirits in Falmouth

Join Mad River Distillers on Friday, October 11th at the Kappy's Fine Wine & Spirits in Falmouth, MA. There will be complimentary tastings from our line of spirits between 3pm-6pm. Feel free to ask questions! Bottles will be available for purchase.

MRD Tasting at Kappy's Hyannis

Join Mad River Distillers on Friday, October 4th at the Kappy's Fine Wine and Spirits in Hyannis, MA. There will be complimentary tastings from our line of spirits between 3:00pm - 5:00pm. Feel free to ask questions! Bottles will be available for purchase.

MRD Tasting at Nikki's Liquor in Providence

Join Mad River Distillers on Friday, October 4th at the Nikki's Liquors in Providence, RI. There will be complimentary tastings from our line of spirits between 4pm-7pm. Feel free to ask questions! Bottles will be available for purchase.

By in Blog Comments Off on 5 Flavored Simple Syrup Recipes

5 Flavored Simple Syrup Recipes

Simple syrup is one of those cocktail ingredients where the name truly reflects what it is—a syrup that is super simple to make. It is a liquid sweetener that is made by dissolving sugar in water (we prefer to use demerara sugar). It’s a great ingredient for adding sweetness to drinks, usually those that are citrusy or fruity, but also in spirit-forward drinks like an Old Fashioned. 

A plain simple syrup is typically made by cooking equal parts (a 1:1 ratio) of sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. You bring the water to a boil while stirring until the sugar dissolves, and once dissolved, you allow the syrup to cool before using. Any extra syrup can be stored in an airtight container for up to a month. Flavored syrups usually require an extra step or two to make, and they can only store for 1-2 weeks, but they can really take the flavor of your cocktail up a notch. For that reason, we love experimenting with flavored simple syrups and how they integrate with our craft spirits. 

Here, we wanted to share 5 flavored simple syrup recipes that we’ve enjoyed here at Mad River Distillers, along with the cocktail recipes in which these syrups are featured.

RASPBERRY SIMPLE SYRUP

To make a raspberry simple syrup, bring 1 cup of water to a light simmer in a saucepan, then turn off the heat. Add 1 cup of sugar and one pint of rinsed raspberries to the pan, stirring and muddling the raspberries in the water as it cools. Strain the raspberries from the syrup, then store the syrup in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

SPIKED RASPBERRY LEMONADE

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-2 oz. of RUM 44
-1 oz. of fresh lemon juice
-1.25 oz. of raspberry simple syrup
-3 oz. of cold water

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a shaker. Add ice, then shake hard for 15-30 seconds. Strain into a collins or highball glass over crushed or pebbled ice. Garnish with a lemon peel and fresh raspberry.

STRAWBERRY SIMPLE SYRUP

To make a strawberry simple syrup, combine 8 ounces of rinsed and chopped strawberries (no stems) with 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce to simmer and cook until all the sugar is dissolved and the syrup is a deep red color. Strain the strawberries so that only the syrup remains, and allow it to cool before using.

BOURBON STREET

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-1.5 oz. of Straight Bourbon
-1/4 oz. of strawberry simple syrup
-3/4 oz. of fresh lemon juice
-2 dashes of Angostura Bitters
-Ginger Beer

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain over ice in a rocks glass. Top with ginger beer, then garnish with a sliced strawberry.

ROASTED PINEAPPLE SIMPLE SYRUP

To make a roasted pineapple simple syrup, first slice 1 Pineapple into 1” chunks. Spread the pineapple chunks on a baking pan and roast at 400 degrees for 30 minutes until the pineapple is deep yellow with brown spots starting to appear. Transfer the pineapple to a saucepan, and add 2.5 cups of sugar and 1 cup of water. Bring everything to a boil, then cover and simmer for 10 minutes. Strain the syrup, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

MAD PINEAPPLE

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-2 oz. of First Run Rum
-2 tsp. of roasted pineapple simple syrup
-2 dashes of Angostura Bitters

Instructions:
Add all ingredients to a mixing glass with ice. Stir until well chilled, then strain contents into a double rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with a fresh slice of pineapple.

HONEY SIMPLE SYRUP

To make a honey simple syrup, heat one part water with one part honey until the honey is fully integrated, then allow the syrup to cool. Store it in the refrigerator for up to one week. We recommend using local honey.

Apricot Blossom cocktail on the bar at Mad River Distillers with a bottle of First Run Rum and dried apricots

APRICOT BLOSSOM

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-2 oz. of Apricot-Infused First Run Rum
-1 oz. of honey simple syrup
-1 oz. of fresh lemon juice
-2-3 dashes of orange bitters

Instructions:
First, you will need to make the apricot-infused First Run Rum. To do that, add 1 cup of dried apricots to a 750ml. bottle of First Run Rum. Store the bottle away from sunlight, and shake it every day for one week. Once that is ready, combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain into a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a dried apricot.

STOUT SIMPLE SYRUP

To make a stout simple syrup, bring 2-16 ounce cans of stout (we used Guinness) to just below a rolling simmer in a saucepan. Heat for 2-3 hours, whisking every ½ hour. Remove the froth that forms on the top. Once you have reduced the stout to about half (16 ounces), add 2-2.5 cups of sugar and stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. Set the syrup aside to cool before using, and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Stout Sour cocktail on the Burlington Tasting Room bar

STOUT SOUR

Ingredients - Yields 1 Cocktail
-2 oz. of Revolution Rye
-1 oz. of fresh lemon juice
-2 oz. of stout simple syrup

Instructions:
Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube, and enjoy!

As you might have guessed, it’s pretty easy to make any kind of flavored simple syrup just by combining a chosen item (whether fruit, herb or even beer) along with sugar and water. The flavor infuses into the syrup as the syrup heats and the sugar is dissolved. It’s a relatively easy way to create and introduce new flavors to your cocktails. Just be sure to store any simple syrups you make in an airtight container in your refrigerator, and keep in mind that any flavor additions likely means the syrup will only be good to use for about a week. 

If you love the idea of flavored simple syrups, but don’t want to take the time to make one yourself, we carry flavored (and plain) simple syrups at our Burlington Tasting Room. We carry other flavor enhancing items there as well, such as bitters. And of course, you can always find our spirits in stock to help you make any of the recipes above.

Happy making, mixing and shaking!

Written and published by Brianne Lucas on September 30, 2024.

MRD Tasting at Luke's Liquors in Canton, MA

Join Mad River Distillers on Saturday, September 28th at the Luke's Liquors in Canton, MA. There will be complimentary tastings from our line of spirits between 2:00pm-4:00pm. Feel free to ask questions! Bottles will be available for purchase.