Molecular Kentucky whiskey ‘pushes the boundaries of modern science’

Milestone Beverages HK Ltd has used molecular technology to capture the historic whiskey flavours and aromas for the launch of its new Stateless Kentucky blended Bourbon.

Milestone has employed techniques designed to analyse and replicate the compositions of classic Bourbon whiskeys, identifying the specific molecules responsible for their flavours, textures and aromas in order to reproduce them for its new Stateless brand.

Stateless is crafted using a blend of traditionally-made spirits, which are then finished in a lab where key characteristics can be fine tuned, the company explained. Molecular technology allows producers to control each aspect of the flavour profile, from the smoky and woody notes to the fruit, vanilla and spices.

Milestone argues that the technology allows for the “democratisation of flavours”, as previously unaffordable whiskeys “become replicable”. The techniques also allow for “mass experimentation to innovate further and perhaps resurrect old formulas”, Milestone said in a press release.

Damith Weerakoon, director of marketing and operations at Milestone Beverages, called the launch “a significant moment in the beverage industry”.

He said of the brand concept: “Stateless is born of the rich history of the modern circus era, when circus crews traversed the nation, moving from city to city to perform under the big top. This period was defined by a sense of boundless adventure and the absence of a fixed home. We were inspired by the nomadic spirit of these circus troupes, their ability to create magic wherever they went, and the idea of bringing together the best elements from diverse backgrounds to put on an unforgettable show. ‘Stateless’ encapsulates this sense of freedom, fluidity, and the ever-evolving spectacle that was the greatest show on earth. Just as the circus defied boundaries and embraced the world as its stage, our bourbon whiskey embodies the same fearless, boundary-breaking ethos, inviting you to embark on a taste journey that knows no bounds.”

“We’re not just creating a new line of whiskies, we’re taking the traditional, the non-traditional, the circus ‘freaks’ and the classic entertainers, all the diverse ingredients and processes to pay homage to tradition while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with modern science. This is where tradition meets innovation,” Weerakoon said.

Milestone is also looking to engage eco-conscious consumers with its latest launch. The company has said that the molecular approach reduces the environmental impact of the whiskey, as it does not require the water, grain, barrel storage space and lengthy maturation period required for traditional whiskeys.

The technology was first developed by foodtech startup Endless West in 2018 for its Glyph whisky, created to taste like aged whisky without years in the barrel.

Stateless is launching first with a classic Kentucky based Blended Bourbon Whisky (BBW) at 40% ABV and its first flavoured whisky with Banana Flavored Whisky (BFW). Milestone is launching the brand in Hong Kong, Asia and Europe in early 2024.