Tincup American Whiskey is a bold yet smooth spirit that pays homage to Colorado's rugged mountain heritage and the pioneers who cherished its iconic tin cups. Crafted from a high-rye mash bill, this whiskey combines corn, rye, and malted barley and is skillfully blended with a touch of Colorado single malt whiskey. Aged in #3 charred American oak barrels for enhanced depth, Tincup is cut to proof with pure Rocky Mountain water, delivering a clean, crisp finish. Its flavor profile boasts spicy rye, cinnamon, and caramel, complemented by hints of citrus and black pepper, creating a versatile whiskey perfect for sipping neat, on the rocks, or in classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned. Beautifully presented in a bottle featuring a tin cup cap, Tincup offers an authentic slice of mountain spirit with every sip.
Process & Profile
Tincup American Whiskey is a unique blend of two distinguished American whiskeys. It combines a high-rye bourbon distilled in Indiana and a small amount of single malt whiskey crafted in Colorado. Each component is aged for a minimum of four years in charred American oak barrels, imparting a rich depth to the flavor profile. The whiskey is cut to 84 proof (42% ABV) using pristine Rocky Mountain water, resulting in unparalleled clarity and a smooth finish. This process ensures a robust yet approachable whiskey that honors the rugged character of its Colorado origins.
Tasting Notes
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Appearance: A warm caramel color with golden undertones.
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Aroma: Inviting citrus, black pepper, and ginger snap notes set the stage for the experience.
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Palate: Bold flavors of rye spice, cinnamon, and caramel shine, complemented by hints of vanilla and maple sugar.
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Finish: A clean and warming finish with a lingering touch of rye spice and subtle sweetness.
What Makes It Special
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Blended Heritage: Tincup marries the boldness of high-rye bourbon with the elegance of Colorado single malt, creating a complex and balanced flavor profile.
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Rocky Mountain Water: The use of pure Rocky Mountain water enhances the whiskey's smoothness and purity, making it uniquely refreshing.
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Historical Inspiration: Named after the mining town of Tincup, Colorado, and featuring a tin cup cap, the brand celebrates the hardworking pioneers who shaped the region.
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Distinctive Packaging: The hexagonal bottle and tin cup cap echo the rugged, outdoor lifestyle that Tincup embodies.
How to Enjoy
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Neat or On the Rocks: Experience the authentic richness of Tincup by sipping it straight or over ice in a classic rocks glass—or the tin cap itself for a rustic touch.
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Cocktails: Tincup's bold flavor pairs beautifully in whiskey-forward cocktails. Try it in a traditional Old Fashioned or warm up with a Hot Toddy:
- 2 oz Tincup American Whiskey
- ¬Ω oz lemon juice
- ¬Ω oz honey
- 4 oz hot water or brewed tea
- Stir honey and lemon juice in a mug, add hot water/tea, and finish with Tincup whiskey.
Tincup American Whiskey is more than just a spirit—it's a tribute to the adventurous soul in all of us. Whether you're savoring it at home or sharing it fireside with friends, Tincup delivers a timeless, satisfying experience that's perfect for any occasion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Tincup American Whiskey made of?
Tincup American Whiskey is a blend of two distinct whiskeys: a high-rye bourbon distilled and aged in Indiana, and a small amount of single malt whiskey from Colorado. Its mash bill includes 64% corn, 32% rye, and 4% malted barley, aged in #3 charred American oak barrels. The final product is cut to proof with pure Rocky Mountain water, resulting in an 84-proof whiskey (42% ABV) .
Why is it called Tincup?
The name "Tincup" pays homage to Colorado's mining heritage, referencing the tin cups miners historically used to drink their whiskey. This legacy is further embraced by the bottle's unique design, featuring a tin cap that doubles as a cup for sipping .
What are the tasting notes of Tincup American Whiskey?
Tincup American Whiskey offers a bold flavor profile. Expect an aroma of citrus, black pepper, and ginger snaps. On the palate, it delivers notes of rye spice, cinnamon, caramel, and hints of vanilla, with a clean, spicy rye finish. Its flavor evokes both the strength and warmth of the Rockies .
How is Tincup American Whiskey best enjoyed?
Tincup American Whiskey is highly versatile. It can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails like a classic Hot Toddy. Its smooth, approachable flavor also makes it an excellent choice for sipping by a fireside or during outdoor adventures .
Is Tincup American Whiskey a bourbon?
While Tincup is bourbon-inspired and meets the criteria for bourbon (at least 51% corn, aged in new charred oak barrels), the makers label it as American whiskey rather than bourbon. This distinction highlights its unique blend of high-rye bourbon and Colorado single malt whiskey along with its Rocky Mountain water finish .
Where is Tincup American Whiskey made?
Tincup is distilled in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, at MGP Ingredients and then shipped to Denver, Colorado. There, it is cut with Rocky Mountain water, blended, and bottled .
What makes Tincup's packaging unique?
The packaging features a ruggedly designed hexagonal bottle, echoing the Rocky Mountain aesthetic. Its standout feature is the tin cup that serves as the cap, making it both functional and reflective of its mining inspiration .
Who created Tincup American Whiskey?
Tincup was founded by Jess Graber, who also created Stranahan's Colorado Whiskey. His vision for Tincup was to craft a whiskey that embodies the spirit of the mountains while offering a bold and fiery flavor profile .
What distinguishes Tincup American Whiskey from other whiskeys?
Tincup stands out for its combination of high-rye bourbon and single malt whiskey, which creates a spicier and slightly more robust profile compared to traditional bourbons. Additionally, the use of pure Rocky Mountain water and the brand's Colorado-inspired packaging make it unique .
What is the price range of Tincup American Whiskey?
Tincup American Whiskey typically retails for around $25–$35, making it an accessible option for those seeking a quality, approachable whiskey with a high-end feel .