The Hidden World of Whiskey in Colorado

When you think of whiskey, Colorado might not be the first state that comes to mind. However, this perception is quickly changing thanks to the efforts of craft distilleries and bars in the area. One of the establishments leading the charge is the W Aspen, which already boasts one of the largest single barrel whiskey collections in Colorado. Now, the hotel is taking things a step further with the launch of The Spring & Dean Single Barrel Club.

Named after two iconic streets in Aspen, this exclusive club is set to make its debut during National Bourbon Heritage Month, which falls in September. Members of The Spring & Dean Single Barrel Club will have access to a range of benefits, including the opportunity to own exclusive single barrel bottles personally selected by the W Aspen team. Some of these bottles are so rare that they can’t be found anywhere else.

To make the club even more appealing, several whiskey brands have partnered with The Spring & Dean Single Barrel Club to offer early access to their newest releases. One such brand is Last Drop Distillers, which will be hosting an intimate tasting experience at the hotel on September 9. Attendees will have the chance to sample the highly sought-after Drew Mayville Blend Bourbon, accompanied by delightful snacks. Representatives from Last Drop Distillers will guide guests through the tasting, providing insights into the brand’s craftsmanship.

The club is available in two membership tiers. The Premium Membership, priced at $150 per year, allows members to choose one single barrel bottle from W Aspen’s collection annually. This collection includes esteemed expressions such as Weller Full Proof, Stagg Jr, Heaven’s Door 7 Year Single Barrel, and Barrell Bourbon 8 Year Old. In addition to this, Premium Members enjoy exclusive perks such as advance ticket sales, discounted pricing on members-only events and experiences, 20% off pours of all single barrels, special bottle pricing, and access to a preferred room rate.

For those looking for a more accessible option, the Base Membership is complimentary and provides access to members-only events and experiences, 10% off pours of all single barrels, and special bottle pricing.

Chris Jaycock, the general manager of the W Aspen, explains that their goal with The Spring & Dean Single Barrel Club is to educate and expand people’s understanding of the variety of bourbons available. Many consumers tend to stick with familiar brands or those associated with luxury, without realizing that there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered. The club aims to introduce members to lesser-known brands that boast exceptional quality.

This exciting new development comes on the heels of a series of popular bar pop-ups hosted by the W Aspen. From Brooklyn-based Ponyboy to Mexico’s Aldama and New York City’s Employee’s Only, these pop-ups have been a hit with both hotel guests and the local community. Jaycock believes that the success of these events is partly due to the familiarity they bring to individuals from cities like Chicago and New York, who make up a significant portion of the hotel’s clientele.

With The Spring & Dean Single Barrel Club and the ongoing efforts to showcase renowned bars from across the country, the W Aspen is positioning itself as a go-to destination for whiskey enthusiasts and those seeking unique and memorable experiences in the heart of Colorado’s stunning landscape. So, if you find yourself in Aspen, be sure to stop by the W Aspen and discover the hidden world of whiskey waiting to be explored. Cheers!