I understand why a company would chose to source product, but these companies try to hide the fact they are sourcing the whiskey turns me sour. Adding a finish to the whisky definitely makes it more unique IMO.
The Whiskey Dic I agree, they put out some solid product, but you shouldn't try to hide it. Even saying that it was sourced without saying where I'm pretty OK with, just give credit, age statement, high rye/low rye mash bill, just give some info. Changing it with some finishing is always a good way to make it unique, I agree
I don't think people hate MGP they hate small distilleries that try to deceive them with the following terms: "handcrafted" "produced with pride in ___ state since prohibition " "mega super small batch" attached to their high priced 18mo toddy.
Can I re-phrase this? "I don't have a problem with the distillers(MGP), I have a problem with those marketing the product under a false guise" I don't have a problem with MGP or their products......but I despise someone BS'n me on what it is and where it came from.
I do and I hate it when companies buy from them and market it as something else. It’s like being ok with being openly lied to. You just pay for marketing when you buy the bottle. Why not just buy fraught from MGP
Although MPG is a mas producer , they are incredibly consistent and good at what they do . They will work with you in most any way. You really can create your own whiskey with them. Its really like highering a contractor , you tell them what you want and they do it!
Angels Envy use to do MGP but switched to sourcing from distilleries like Buffalo Trace and then finish aging in port casks. As it grew they now do all their own distillery as the company was started up with a retired master distiller from Brown Forman(Lincoln Henderson) and makes a wonderful product.. a bit pricey but still good stuff.
MGP is not the villain here... its the companies that purchase from MGP then turnaround and create a drink, label, back story, history etc... "recipe has been in the family since 1872" blah blah blah.... Don't lie to me, deceive or otherwise fool me into purchasing not your product. Transparency is key with me.....
What I hate is I find something bourbon wise I like then next thing I know I can't find it namely Buffalo trace which was pretty common everywhere,then being forced to go through hundreds of bottles of bourbon brands to find a taste I like again.
Yep, heard of them and I don't have a problem with people sourcing from them. With that said, I don't mind it if it is stated, if the company hides it or lies about using sourced whiskey then that becomes a problem. As for it being "unique" if they take a couple or three whiskies and blend them, then yeah, that's unique. If they just take what's off the shelf and put it in a bottle then no it isn't unique. That's just my point of view, your mileage may vary.
I’ve been asked a whiskey snob. But I think MGP makes great juice! They know what they’re doing. What pisses me off is a brand who sources MGP and gives a story about how their great grandpappy dodged revenuers and the law. Just be honest. MGP is great.
I work in the industry and I have mad respect of what’s coming out of Indiana and what they do. It’s quality product and I think it’s cool how they can help kick start a new distillery.
Great episode, it's a topic many channels don't like to talk about. I have no problem with sourced whiskey as long as it's good and the brand releasing it is honest about it. And yes it's mass produced but doesn't Jack Daniels produce 90.000.000 litres a year too? And many people around the world love it. It's all about the taste , the story behind many bourbons is nice but what counts is the juice inside the bottle.
@@matycee Yes it's true but by default, RUclips hides the description. You have to click on it in order to open it up and read it.... My point was that it would not have hurt explaining the term in the video. That's all...
I think a big part of the issue is what the small start-up distilleries are charging for this sourced whisky. If it is a very similar product to one that is 1/3 the price, that does not sit well with most consumers.
One thing dude left out, is that MGP is widely considered to be an extreme excellent source for whiskey. No matter what side of the argument you are on, MGP has it dialed in and if you buy your source from them, weather you are using it as is, or altering it further, you are starting with some of the finest products on planet Earth. Personally, if I like what's in the bottle, I don't care where it comes from. I just want the selling company to be honest about where it comes from. Don't tell me you distilled it, or even allude to that if you didn't and we'll never have a problem.
Your video was well thought out and presented. Good work! There are a few MGP Products that I like but I seem to prefer the back story with most of my favorite Bourbons, even before I knew what MGP was. I haven't loved or hated many of their products, but I don;t snob or shame my friends that love Angels Envy, Bulleit, Etc.
Thanks so much for this great informative video! What is frustrating is the lack of transparency. I feel they should be upfront and let consumers know it is sourced whisky.
In medicine, we say, "Don't treat the numbers, treat the patient". Same thing with booze. Don't focus on the production, focus on the end result. If you like it, that's great. I like Angels Envy Rye. It's all I use for Manhattans. I'm sure there's other stuff out there that other people like. I like this.
FUN FACT: James E. Pepper (3:35) is basically the original Woodford Reserve. Elijah Pepper created his distillery there, handed down through generations and lasting through time was bought and sold, also closed down a few times until ultimately Labrot & Graham took it over and then it was renamed Woodford Reserve. Check it out online!
Great topic for a video. Seems like most reputable companies do put distilled in Indiana in fine print on the back. Don't hate MGP however a lot of the people who use their juice are selling something that costs more and may or may not be as good or better than the old Kentucky distilleries. Michter's is a great example, their core range bourbon is $45-55 depending on where you live and I found it underwhelming. Heaven Hill, Jim Beam, Four Roses and some others produce much better bourbon for a lower price. Now I saw a youtube video of Michter's building their distillery dated 2015 but it's going to be a while before that juice is ready and who knows if they can produce enough to supply their demand? Just my two cents.
Nice topic, clarity is not paramount for everyone. Profit carries many motives and with American whiskeys taking off like wildfire, even scrutiny by connoisseurs won't stop these companies from success. I personally don't care. Hell, propaganda is just that, and it's everywhere. Thanks for your post. Good job.
well said, well done....not good or bad, just the way it is..."distilleries" need to be more transparent on those fancy labels, no shame in sourcing whiskey, esp for a start-up...and lets be very transparent, no MGP no whiskey/bourbon boom in North America, period
Quality is a big thing. I’m fine with MGP making stuff, and other distilleries finishing it. Whiskey is expensive business, and so long as you can make it their own, fair play. You mentioned restaurants. Sysco supplies pretty much everyone and everything, from greasy spoons to $150/plate restaurants. Sysco is the MGP of the food industry, and I still see people eating at out without issue.
A lot of these videos about sourced whiskies don't mention that MGP isn't even the only player in the game. There are a number of American blenders/bottlers who source spirit from Alberta Distillers Ltd., a Canadian company. Whistle Pig is a notable example. Basically, if it says "Bottle and/or Blended by" and it's 95 percent rye mash, it's probably MGP. If it's 100 percent rye, it's probably from Alberta Distillers. That's my understanding at least, though I'm open to being wrong.
I can appreciate doing it both ways...... That said, as just a consumer and at the end of the day do I like it or not. Angel's Envy is good and on my shelf, so no worries here. YMMV I just came back from Kentucky and love the tradition and history. If MGP put Americans to work, that's fine by me also. Just go drink some Bourbon!!!!
I got deceived by the Templeton Rye fiasco and got the max payout in the settlement, which I think was 36 dollars. Like others have said, it's not MGP that is the villain, it's the producers that lie on the label about what's in the bottle.
Was at a small distillery near me that likes to claim they are all original. Went on a tour and in a warehouse the had all if these MGP bulk containers stacked on one wall. When asked about them they tried to say they were just storage containers and quickly ushered us out. I dont have a problem with them getting a base liquor to help with production as they are a small company. But they make a big deal about how they make all of it on site.
Theres nothing wrong with MGP. They make decent whiskey. They make whiskey worth your money. Just cause its a big company doesnt mean its garbage. Its the small companies fault for slapping a label on it with a story of Mike McWhiskey making it in his backyard. Doesnt make the whiskey bad.
Contract brewing and distilling is not a bad thing, but the brands buying sourced spirits or contracting brews, need to be open that the beer is contract brewed or the spirit is sourced, and where it's brewed and where it's sourced.
MGP only did for Whiskey what Henry Ford did for the motor car. Just don’t tell me you handcrafted or made in... when it was done by a big guy and I’m fine. It’s the dishonesty that’s the real villain here.
Mgpi makes some quality whisky, I'd rather know that it came from them for new companies so I know what to expect. Old Scout, Belle Meade, and a ton of their products were amazing.
It really depends on the price of it that matters to me. I've known this about bulliet and don't care because it's not expensive. There is a lot better for the money for my taste than angels envy. IMO
John Yingling correct. If any distillery in Scotland did this, they couldn’t put the name of their distillery on the bottle, as they didn’t make it. If you didn’t distill it, then you are just a bottler.
I absolutely love what MGP is doing, I've really enjoyed most of the Products they've put out under a lot of different brands. Since you mentioned it I'm assuming you've heard of MGP's own brand release Rossville Union. Just got some and looking forward to trying it. Cheers Bill!
The Whiskey Dic maybe you can get your hands on some to do a review of. I just had some samples sent to me so I plan on doing a review of it soon. Should be interesting. You'd think they would have access to some good barrels considering its their own juice. Cheers Bill!
Tmanaz480 I agree. There are tons of brands that don't distill but call themselves a distillery. We think there should be a tasting competition that requires that the product be distilled by the name on the label.
Since my whiskey is in a cocktail, not sipped, I’m not offended by the MGP story (says the guy who has ended up with Geo Dickel Rye and Redemption bourbon on his shelf). What does offend is the variety of prices of MGP products. Other than aging are we just paying for an attractive bottle?
Exactly. And MGP had several options. They can sell you the new make for you to barrel, they can barrel, they can barrel and age... all depends what you want to do with it.
No, no, no. If you want to start a distillery, start small and work up. You can make money by selling new make. You can even have that new make in barrels that are not oak, to get different profiles. Personally, provenance is key. Somebody has had to take the hit of starting a distillery, but if I have a whisky, I wouldn’t like to think that the spirit has come from anywhere else other than the name on the bottle. I can think of a couple of distilleries in Scotland that have not released a malt until it’s ready. That’s the way to go.
It is not about having an opinion on MGP. It's about brands like Tito's and their aw shucks hokey false advertising. The ad touts his creating his own stills off of photos from prohibition, and their Austin Texas location, not to mention "Small batch" copper stills, but then truck loads of product are brought in from Indiana, not Texas, and it is all lies, all of it. I know people who drink it from Texas because they believe it is a Texas product. It is only a Texas based Company.
The same model exists in the wine business. A "winery" may buy its grapes from local farmers, have the grapes delivered to a custom crush business, which, in turn produces the "winery's" wine. Some wineries don't even buy grapes. They buy bulk wine, then blend and bottle it. This is far, far more common than the perception that all wineries grow their own grapes, crush their own grapes, and ferment, age and bottle their own wines.
I personally do everything I can to steer away from every brand that does not have a distillery in their own name I can visit, with the exception of Clyde Mayes, I give them a break. But I hate that these "bartender" "mixologist" "distillers" that buy someone elses product, re-bottle it, rename it and throw $30 over average price on it. No thanks.
I agree with a lot of these comments about transparency. Before I learned to read (understand) a label I was fooled by the wording "Produced by." In my vocabulary producing means making, but that is not the governments definition. Now I know that ONLY the wording "Distilled by" lets you know who distilled it. The law for whiskey states that if it is distilled in one state (ie: Indiana) and bottled in another state (ie: KY) the state of distillation is required on the label. The law does not require WHO distilled the product, but you are not allowed to put "Distilled by" unless you distilled it. There is some clever marketing wording though. Don't hate MGP. They make good product. Just stop paying crazy prices for sourced product when you can find good stuff at reasonable prices.
MGP has a great products, but some folks, mostly Vodka will just buy it from MGP bottle it in fancy looking bottles with fancy labels and marketing on youtube to sell at 50$ a bottle.
Going this way is the easy way.... And from that point it is NOT your whisky! I do not want to sound negative, but I think this is obvious, they just try to skip the first steps which is part of the journey. That is what gives your whisky provenance...
I agree with most comments here .MGP is not the problem. it is the people who source from them And try to deceive consumers with phoney back stories and completely made up history and use a bunch Of buzz words and catch phrases. Private reserve,extra special,small batch,craft made etc.etc. just to purposely deceive consumers. As long as they are transparent on the label and state were it was distilled, bottled,etc. I am perfectly ok with it.as buyers all we really want is transparency and honesty and to not feel we are being lied too.
2 years later...Just curious, is Kentucky Owl sourced from MGP? For such a high price, they have zero information about their whiskey. Makes me think it’s MGP.
I have no issue with MGP Rye, the list of MGP bottlers is easy to find with google. The Bourbon/Rye labeled "Kentucky Straight" but sourced is much harder to find the distiller. Michter's/KBD/Willett are all likely to be Heaven Hill juice, but that is speculation. Bulleit Bourbon is Four Roses, or at least it used to be. Of course if you see 100% Rye than you know it came from Alberta Distillers.
People don't hate MGP because it is mass produced...almost all good whiskey is mass produced. They hate being lied to. Just don't be a sucker and buy stupid overpriced mystery bottles. MGP runs a fantastic business. Good for them. I'll never understand why people feel upset because they were dumb enough to buy an expensive bottle of young whiskey without researching it first.
To be fair, it would be entirely possible for MGP to include in their contracts with these small distillers exactly what kind of language can be used to describe the product. Then go after them aggressively in court when there is even a hint of deception or obfuscation.
Whether any products from MGP sources are good or bad, there's always a much higher chance that the flavor profile will change from bottle to bottle and season to season, and you will never know what changed. In a way, you could look at it like the whiskey bottling and blending outside of the States like the methods they use in Canada, Ireland, or Scotland. You are never really getting a hint of how they make the whiskey, if they changed the formula, or changed the sources, but the indication is in the taste and what they put on the label. Most of these guys are still trying to make the most profit, so, the age statements will disappear or get younger, and the proof drops along the way to dilute the stock to make more money. As a personal preference, I don't like whiskeys that cost over 40 that's less than 4 years old (I'm looking at the Texas whiskeys here.), and there are now tons of brands that have excuses for not letting their product mature which for me ends up as if I'm paying premium prices for what is essentially moonshine that I could just make a batch up in the back yard. (Not true, but you get the gist of the feeling.)
Is Angel's Envy still an MGP product? I thought they had their own distillery up and running. Of course I guess you still have aging that's going to take time.. I'd expect that they won't be an MGP product for much longer.
They're definitely distilling their own products now. They're on the bourbon trail and you can tour the distillery in Louisville, but I'm sure they're still sourcing MGP while their product ages.
My bottle of Angles Envy quotes "Distilled in Kentucky"... also Angles Envy is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon. And since MGP is located in Indiana, I doubt that the Hendersons source from MGP.
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What's your opinion on MGP? At what point do you consider a sourced whiskey to be "unique"?
I understand why a company would chose to source product, but these companies try to hide the fact they are sourcing the whiskey turns me sour. Adding a finish to the whisky definitely makes it more unique IMO.
I have no problem with MGP. I only ask that the companies that source from them (or other places) state so clearly. Great vid!
Thanks!
I'm with you. State it and change it and I'm cool with it
The Whiskey Dic I agree, they put out some solid product, but you shouldn't try to hide it. Even saying that it was sourced without saying where I'm pretty OK with, just give credit, age statement, high rye/low rye mash bill, just give some info. Changing it with some finishing is always a good way to make it unique, I agree
I don't think people hate MGP they hate small distilleries that try to deceive them with the following terms: "handcrafted" "produced with pride in ___ state since prohibition " "mega super small batch" attached to their high priced 18mo toddy.
Noz Tradamus most definitely
Right. If it tastes good i dont care. I hate when new distilleries rush out whiskey as well. Nothing is worse then a green whiskey.
Well I enjoy angel envy but they promote as theirs from their own cellars
So hipsters hate hipster marketing....
you hit the mark here with this comment.
I don't have a problem with MGP sourced whiskey. But I want the distilleries to be transparent about it.
Can I re-phrase this? "I don't have a problem with the distillers(MGP), I have a problem with those marketing the product under a false guise" I don't have a problem with MGP or their products......but I despise someone BS'n me on what it is and where it came from.
but a lot of times what they say is true. 10 year old Bourbon. It is a fact.
I do and I hate it when companies buy from them and market it as something else. It’s like being ok with being openly lied to. You just pay for marketing when you buy the bottle. Why not just buy fraught from MGP
Although MPG is a mas producer , they are incredibly consistent and good at what they do . They will work with you in most any way. You really can create your own whiskey with them. Its really like highering a contractor , you tell them what you want and they do it!
Angels Envy use to do MGP but switched to sourcing from distilleries like Buffalo Trace and then finish aging in port casks. As it grew they now do all their own distillery as the company was started up with a retired master distiller from Brown Forman(Lincoln Henderson) and makes a wonderful product.. a bit pricey but still good stuff.
MGP is not the villain here... its the companies that purchase from MGP then turnaround and create a drink, label, back story, history etc... "recipe has been in the family since 1872" blah blah blah.... Don't lie to me, deceive or otherwise fool me into purchasing not your product. Transparency is key with me.....
What I hate is I find something bourbon wise I like then next thing I know I can't find it namely Buffalo trace which was pretty common everywhere,then being forced to go through hundreds of bottles of bourbon brands to find a taste I like again.
Yep, heard of them and I don't have a problem with people sourcing from them. With that said, I don't mind it if it is stated, if the company hides it or lies about using sourced whiskey then that becomes a problem.
As for it being "unique" if they take a couple or three whiskies and blend them, then yeah, that's unique. If they just take what's off the shelf and put it in a bottle then no it isn't unique. That's just my point of view, your mileage may vary.
Agree completely... and I had as much in my script. Didn't make it to the video!
I’ve been asked a whiskey snob. But I think MGP makes great juice! They know what they’re doing. What pisses me off is a brand who sources MGP and gives a story about how their great grandpappy dodged revenuers and the law. Just be honest. MGP is great.
All of what you said is true
I’ve been “called” a whiskey snob to correct the autocorrect
As someone who had a minor in marketing in college, I can say something about marketers with some authority:
Marketers suck 😆
Seeing a "bottled-in-bond" tag on the bottle is a good sign it's legit, especially when its single barrel or small batch.
I work in the industry and I have mad respect of what’s coming out of Indiana and what they do. It’s quality product and I think it’s cool how they can help kick start a new distillery.
No problem with MGP. However, I do appreciate transparency.
Great episode, it's a topic many channels don't like to talk about. I have no problem with sourced whiskey as long as it's good and the brand releasing it is honest about it. And yes it's mass produced but doesn't Jack Daniels produce 90.000.000 litres a year too? And many people around the world love it. It's all about the taste , the story behind many bourbons is nice but what counts is the juice inside the bottle.
An entire video on MGP without mentioning that:MGP = Midwest Grain Products
Wow. Thanks so much for that inf. I hate acronyms.
Did I really? Sorry... I'm the worst
um... no. It explains it STRAIGHT AWAY right in the description at the top there. See it?
@@matycee Yes it's true but by default, RUclips hides the description. You have to click on it in order to open it up and read it.... My point was that it would not have hurt explaining the term in the video. That's all...
For sure. Wish I had
I think a big part of the issue is what the small start-up distilleries are charging for this sourced whisky. If it is a very similar product to one that is 1/3 the price, that does not sit well with most consumers.
One thing dude left out, is that MGP is widely considered to be an extreme excellent source for whiskey. No matter what side of the argument you are on, MGP has it dialed in and if you buy your source from them, weather you are using it as is, or altering it further, you are starting with some of the finest products on planet Earth.
Personally, if I like what's in the bottle, I don't care where it comes from. I just want the selling company to be honest about where it comes from. Don't tell me you distilled it, or even allude to that if you didn't and we'll never have a problem.
Yep, produce some of best privet label whiskey out there!
Your video was well thought out and presented. Good work! There are a few MGP Products that I like but I seem to prefer the back story with most of my favorite Bourbons, even before I knew what MGP was. I haven't loved or hated many of their products, but I don;t snob or shame my friends that love Angels Envy, Bulleit, Etc.
Thanks for clearing up this grave misunderstanding.
Share it around!
Thanks. I was curious how a new brand would suddenly have 8, 12, or however many years old whiskey.
Thanks so much for this great informative video! What is frustrating is the lack of transparency. I feel they should be upfront and let consumers know it is sourced whisky.
In medicine, we say, "Don't treat the numbers, treat the patient". Same thing with booze. Don't focus on the production, focus on the end result. If you like it, that's great. I like Angels Envy Rye. It's all I use for Manhattans. I'm sure there's other stuff out there that other people like. I like this.
I've liked just about every MGP product that I've had. They may just be my favorite distiller.
Yea, they really do put out a great product
FUN FACT: James E. Pepper (3:35) is basically the original Woodford Reserve. Elijah Pepper created his distillery there, handed down through generations and lasting through time was bought and sold, also closed down a few times until ultimately Labrot & Graham took it over and then it was renamed Woodford Reserve. Check it out online!
Great topic for a video. Seems like most reputable companies do put distilled in Indiana in fine print on the back. Don't hate MGP however a lot of the people who use their juice are selling something that costs more and may or may not be as good or better than the old Kentucky distilleries. Michter's is a great example, their core range bourbon is $45-55 depending on where you live and I found it underwhelming. Heaven Hill, Jim Beam, Four Roses and some others produce much better bourbon for a lower price. Now I saw a youtube video of Michter's building their distillery dated 2015 but it's going to be a while before that juice is ready and who knows if they can produce enough to supply their demand? Just my two cents.
Enough or too much? A bit concerned about the market. All the more reason to go the MGP route.
"if I were to start a distillery" - The Whisky Dic Distillery confirmed! I would buy at least a two bottles.
It's actually "The Whiskey Dicstillery"
Yes, this would be legit 🥃
On a side note... I have a single barrel release that people can get if they live in the U.S. just email me thewhiskeydic@gmail.com
MGP is to whiskey what Intel is to personal computers. I hope to one day see “MGP Inside” on whiskey labels. 😆
Its coming ! They have planes to market some of there own juice.
It's already out! Look up Rossville
Will do , thanks for the info.
Great to have your library of videos....new to the game and have been hearing about this topic THANKS
Glad you're here!
I love MGP and anyone who sources their distillate, ages/blends something delicious, and labels/markets it honestly.
Great video, thank you for this! Very well done and explained.
If I bought whiskey and I liked its taste, I'd buy it again. I am a simple man 😁
That's the way to be. No need to be pretentious about it!
AMEN!
A very good topic and awesome explanation. Thanks!
Nice topic, clarity is not paramount for everyone. Profit carries many motives and with American whiskeys taking off like wildfire, even scrutiny by connoisseurs won't stop these companies from success. I personally don't care. Hell, propaganda is just that, and it's everywhere. Thanks for your post. Good job.
well said, well done....not good or bad, just the way it is..."distilleries" need to be more transparent on those fancy labels, no shame in sourcing whiskey, esp for a start-up...and lets be very transparent, no MGP no whiskey/bourbon boom in North America, period
Quality is a big thing. I’m fine with MGP making stuff, and other distilleries finishing it. Whiskey is expensive business, and so long as you can make it their own, fair play.
You mentioned restaurants. Sysco supplies pretty much everyone and everything, from greasy spoons to $150/plate restaurants. Sysco is the MGP of the food industry, and I still see people eating at out without issue.
Excellent and informative video! Thank you.
A lot of these videos about sourced whiskies don't mention that MGP isn't even the only player in the game. There are a number of American blenders/bottlers who source spirit from Alberta Distillers Ltd., a Canadian company. Whistle Pig is a notable example. Basically, if it says "Bottle and/or Blended by" and it's 95 percent rye mash, it's probably MGP. If it's 100 percent rye, it's probably from Alberta Distillers. That's my understanding at least, though I'm open to being wrong.
I drink whiskey for two reasons. The taste and the story.
There's nothing enchanting about corporate greed. I pass on MGP.
Fair reasoning.
Agree with most - don't BS me. If I like it, I'll buy it again.
If the label doesn’t specifically state, “Distilled and Bottled by---“ you are looking at an MGP PRODUCT.
"Good episode mate, I have learned something new"~Kurt H
I can appreciate doing it both ways......
That said, as just a consumer and at the end of the day do I like it or not.
Angel's Envy is good and on my shelf, so no worries here. YMMV
I just came back from Kentucky and love the tradition and history.
If MGP put Americans to work, that's fine by me also.
Just go drink some Bourbon!!!!
I got deceived by the Templeton Rye fiasco and got the max payout in the settlement, which I think was 36 dollars. Like others have said, it's not MGP that is the villain, it's the producers that lie on the label about what's in the bottle.
Was at a small distillery near me that likes to claim they are all original. Went on a tour and in a warehouse the had all if these MGP bulk containers stacked on one wall. When asked about them they tried to say they were just storage containers and quickly ushered us out. I dont have a problem with them getting a base liquor to help with production as they are a small company. But they make a big deal about how they make all of it on site.
That's my line as well. Screw that
Theres nothing wrong with MGP.
They make decent whiskey.
They make whiskey worth your money.
Just cause its a big company doesnt mean its garbage.
Its the small companies fault for slapping a label on it with a story of Mike McWhiskey making it in his backyard.
Doesnt make the whiskey bad.
Contract brewing and distilling is not a bad thing, but the brands buying sourced spirits or contracting brews, need to be open that the beer is contract brewed or the spirit is sourced, and where it's brewed and where it's sourced.
MGP only did for Whiskey what Henry Ford did for the motor car.
Just don’t tell me you handcrafted or made in... when it was done by a big guy and I’m fine.
It’s the dishonesty that’s the real villain here.
Completely agree
They make great rye whiskey for a good price. What’s not to love?? But did they recently get sold? Hope they maintain their quality 👍
I don’t think people realize how much whiskey is produced in Indiana. Not a criticism just a fact. It’s like Sysco in the restaurant industry.
They also do tequilla for Jose Quervo.
Awesome and informative video!! I always wondered about this and now I know. Thank you!
I make my own! It’s fun and it’s More American than baseball or apple pie!
Mgpi makes some quality whisky, I'd rather know that it came from them for new companies so I know what to expect. Old Scout, Belle Meade, and a ton of their products were amazing.
It really depends on the price of it that matters to me. I've known this about bulliet and don't care because it's not expensive. There is a lot better for the money for my taste than angels envy. IMO
Very informative. Thank you
Interesting insight Bill=Thanks for that!
Transparency is the key. Describe what you did. Sourced from MGP and then.....
thanks for the information , im new to this stuff and love education on anything, you are easy to understand for me as a beginner.
That's great! I'm glad to have you
Read the label. If I’m not mistaken, it has to say where it is distilled. If it says distilled in Indiana, it is a Midwest Grain Products whiskey.
John Yingling correct. If any distillery in Scotland did this, they couldn’t put the name of their distillery on the bottle, as they didn’t make it.
If you didn’t distill it, then you are just a bottler.
Great topic, I like the op-ed/commentary videos
Thanks! I have several more in the queue! If you have a topic, let me know!
I absolutely love what MGP is doing, I've really enjoyed most of the Products they've put out under a lot of different brands. Since you mentioned it I'm assuming you've heard of MGP's own brand release Rossville Union. Just got some and looking forward to trying it. Cheers Bill!
I had totally forgotten about MGP putting out their own brand. Gonna have to dig into that now. Thanks for killing the rest of my afternoon!
Sure have. I think I may have left that bit out in the video. At least specifying that it's got it's own brand still being made
The Whiskey Dic maybe you can get your hands on some to do a review of. I just had some samples sent to me so I plan on doing a review of it soon. Should be interesting. You'd think they would have access to some good barrels considering its their own juice. Cheers Bill!
If you don't actually distill, then don't call your business a distillery. Simple.
Tmanaz480 I agree. There are tons of brands that don't distill but call themselves a distillery. We think there should be a tasting competition that requires that the product be distilled by the name on the label.
Since my whiskey is in a cocktail, not sipped, I’m not offended by the MGP story (says the guy who has ended up with Geo Dickel Rye and Redemption bourbon on his shelf). What does offend is the variety of prices of MGP products. Other than aging are we just paying for an attractive bottle?
Thanks for the video! Great topic, If The Whiskey is good I will buy it and buy it again! Cheers Bill! 🥃👍
Amen. Same here. For me a lot of it has to do with honesty. But good whiskey is still good whiskey
I know Dickel Rye new make comes from MGP. I still enjoy it. A lot depends on how whisky is aged.
Exactly. And MGP had several options. They can sell you the new make for you to barrel, they can barrel, they can barrel and age... all depends what you want to do with it.
No, no, no. If you want to start a distillery, start small and work up. You can make money by selling new make. You can even have that new make in barrels that are not oak, to get different profiles.
Personally, provenance is key. Somebody has had to take the hit of starting a distillery, but if I have a whisky, I wouldn’t like to think that the spirit has come from anywhere else other than the name on the bottle.
I can think of a couple of distilleries in Scotland that have not released a malt until it’s ready. That’s the way to go.
Very edifying tutorial sir. Well done.
I've heard of MGP, & I love them. They produce wonderful distilled spirits, which I enjoy. What is there not to like about them. Richard :)
I had no ideal!!!......thanks for the informative video.
Glad to hear I could help!
Good episode mate, I have learned something new
Thanks! Glad I could share some knowledge
So which mgp do people like the best?
Well, I don't hate MGP after trying a glass of Joeseph Magnus. Wow, it's all about the finish and in the case of Magnus, the blend.
Its so good!
Great information. Thanks for sharing but kept getting distracted by the crooked painting hanging on your wall in the back ground.
Hah! Sometimes it happens
It is not about having an opinion on MGP. It's about brands like Tito's and their aw shucks hokey false advertising. The ad touts his creating his own stills off of photos from prohibition, and their Austin Texas location, not to mention "Small batch" copper stills, but then truck loads of product are brought in from Indiana, not Texas, and it is all lies, all of it. I know people who drink it from Texas because they believe it is a Texas product. It is only a Texas based Company.
MGP produces some of the best rye out there. Dickel, Templeton, etc. age it to perfection.
MGP Juice is good!, they've had a bad wrap for a long time, but it's not their fault.
If the label doesn’t state “Distilled and Bottled by”. Instead lots of the labels gives a story, sometimes going back into the 1800’s. What a crock!
The same model exists in the wine business. A "winery" may buy its grapes from local farmers, have the grapes delivered to a custom crush business, which, in turn produces the "winery's" wine. Some wineries don't even buy grapes. They buy bulk wine, then blend and bottle it. This is far, far more common than the perception that all wineries grow their own grapes, crush their own grapes, and ferment, age and bottle their own wines.
That makes a lot of sense.
True , have a friend with a winery . Has 14 wines and only grows two grapes!
Interesting perspective
Wow. Very informative
I personally do everything I can to steer away from every brand that does not have a distillery in their own name I can visit, with the exception of Clyde Mayes, I give them a break. But I hate that these "bartender" "mixologist" "distillers" that buy someone elses product, re-bottle it, rename it and throw $30 over average price on it. No thanks.
Thank you for the insights, good stuff!
thanks for the video! greetings from germany
Glad to see you here! Thanks for watching.
This explains why so many of these whiskies taste the same. They are the same.
I agree with a lot of these comments about transparency. Before I learned to read (understand) a label I was fooled by the wording "Produced by." In my vocabulary producing means making, but that is not the governments definition. Now I know that ONLY the wording "Distilled by" lets you know who distilled it. The law for whiskey states that if it is distilled in one state (ie: Indiana) and bottled in another state (ie: KY) the state of distillation is required on the label. The law does not require WHO distilled the product, but you are not allowed to put "Distilled by" unless you distilled it. There is some clever marketing wording though. Don't hate MGP. They make good product. Just stop paying crazy prices for sourced product when you can find good stuff at reasonable prices.
MGP has a great products, but some folks, mostly Vodka will just buy it from MGP bottle it in fancy looking bottles with fancy labels and marketing on youtube to sell at 50$ a bottle.
Going this way is the easy way.... And from that point it is NOT your whisky! I do not want to sound negative, but I think this is obvious, they just try to skip the first steps which is part of the journey. That is what gives your whisky provenance...
Thanks for the information!
Thanks for the view!
Great video. there are many more sorced out of MGP like OKI which is great and Boone County and others. Thanks.
I agree with most comments here .MGP is not the problem. it is the people who source from them
And try to deceive consumers with phoney back stories and completely made up history and use a bunch
Of buzz words and catch phrases. Private reserve,extra special,small batch,craft made etc.etc. just to purposely deceive consumers. As long as they are transparent on the label and state were it was distilled, bottled,etc. I am perfectly ok with it.as buyers all we really want is transparency and honesty and to not feel we are being lied too.
2 years later...Just curious, is Kentucky Owl sourced from MGP? For such a high price, they have zero information about their whiskey. Makes me think it’s MGP.
Bardstown Bourbon does their distilling now.
I have no issue with MGP Rye, the list of MGP bottlers is easy to find with google.
The Bourbon/Rye labeled "Kentucky Straight" but sourced is much harder to find the distiller. Michter's/KBD/Willett are all likely to be Heaven Hill juice, but that is speculation. Bulleit Bourbon is Four Roses, or at least it used to be. Of course if you see 100% Rye than you know it came from Alberta Distillers.
Place on the label telling people it’s MGP! Be honest
People don't hate MGP because it is mass produced...almost all good whiskey is mass produced. They hate being lied to. Just don't be a sucker and buy stupid overpriced mystery bottles. MGP runs a fantastic business. Good for them. I'll never understand why people feel upset because they were dumb enough to buy an expensive bottle of young whiskey without researching it first.
To be fair, it would be entirely possible for MGP to include in their contracts with these small distillers exactly what kind of language can be used to describe the product. Then go after them aggressively in court when there is even a hint of deception or obfuscation.
Water. The KY limestone filtered water is said to be the key to KY bourbon. Where does MGP get their water?
MGP is in Atchison Kansas and The City of Atchison's water comes from the Missouri River.
@@johncollins8828 There must be more than one. The one that is involved in bourbon is in Lawrenceburg IN.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/MGP_of_Indiana
What about Clyde Mayes? That's good stuff and it definitely has a note or two that seems different..
Hello quick ? My son Gave me For Christmas A bottle of Wellers do you have any opinion on this whiskey?
Guessing its weller 12? Its currently highly sought after. great!
While I'm not sure if it was the case when you made this video, at least at this point, what Templeton is selling is their own stuff.
If what you have in your glass tastes good to you and you really like it what does it matter if it is MGP.
Whether any products from MGP sources are good or bad, there's always a much higher chance that the flavor profile will change from bottle to bottle and season to season, and you will never know what changed. In a way, you could look at it like the whiskey bottling and blending outside of the States like the methods they use in Canada, Ireland, or Scotland. You are never really getting a hint of how they make the whiskey, if they changed the formula, or changed the sources, but the indication is in the taste and what they put on the label. Most of these guys are still trying to make the most profit, so, the age statements will disappear or get younger, and the proof drops along the way to dilute the stock to make more money. As a personal preference, I don't like whiskeys that cost over 40 that's less than 4 years old (I'm looking at the Texas whiskeys here.), and there are now tons of brands that have excuses for not letting their product mature which for me ends up as if I'm paying premium prices for what is essentially moonshine that I could just make a batch up in the back yard. (Not true, but you get the gist of the feeling.)
I think MGP's 95 Rye i.e. Bulleit 95 rye, is most excellent.
Redemption is even better
Is Angel's Envy still an MGP product? I thought they had their own distillery up and running. Of course I guess you still have aging that's going to take time..
I'd expect that they won't be an MGP product for much longer.
You made me doubt myself, but I double checked www.angelsenvy.com/whiskey/process/ their wording implies that they likely still dont distill
They're definitely distilling their own products now. They're on the bourbon trail and you can tour the distillery in Louisville, but I'm sure they're still sourcing MGP while their product ages.
That makes sense. I'd be surprised if they weren't but I saw no evidence that they were
My bottle of Angles Envy quotes "Distilled in Kentucky"... also Angles Envy is a Kentucky Straight Bourbon. And since MGP is located in Indiana, I doubt that the Hendersons source from MGP.
Btw... The Angels Envy mashbill does not match any of the mashbill that MGP offers.
Good stuff.