Art of Alchemy Spirits: Concept Development & Commercialization

Firmly embedded in the spirits industry in advisor, consultant and investor capacities, the Founders of Cask Catalyst identified an opportunity to enter the whiskey space – as operators – with a differentiated brand of our own…and seized on it.

Situation

In 2021 on the heels of the pandemic, a stretch that only further demonstrated America’s insatiable appetite for brown spirits after years of impressive growth, we were actively seeking to find an investment prospect. Along the way, we uncovered the opportunity to purchase a modest sum of rye whiskey, resting at Castle & Key, distilled by former Four Roses Master Distiller Jim Rutledge. The question was never whether or not to purchase the pristine barrels, the question was what’s the best play once we do.

Opportunity

Over the course of our deliberations, analyzing the maturing landscape of the category, it became apparent to us that the blended whiskey space lent itself to new entries looking to push boundaries. So, we set out to create a premium craft brand reflective of this innovative, irreverent spirit, and proceeded to partner with the world-class Bardstown Bourbon Company to blend the Rutledge rye with other distillates. Our first release, Art of Alchemy Blend No. 1, hit the streets in the Summer of 2022.

Key Results

  • Won a Triple Gold Medal for Blend No. 1 at the 2022 MicroLiquor Spirits Awards, as well as a Gold Medal in the Package Design Competition
  • Opened up distribution in 5 states (TN, GA, TX, CO, SC) through commitments from a select group of reputable craft spirits distributors
  • Sold out of Blend No. 1 inventory in weeks

Let’s Talk Turkey!

At the ready to connect and explore the possibilities...

Contact Us