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Meet the Maker: John Rempe, Lux Row Distillers
A certified food scientist turned head distiller and master blender at Lux Row Distillers, John Rempe has over 25 years of experience in developing spirits. Known for his innovative approach, Rempe pushes the boundaries of Bourbon by applying often unique finishes. One notable creation is the Rebel 100 Bourbon Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish, a limited edition of 6,000 bottles reserved for international markets.
What is Lux Row Distillers?
Designated a National Historic Place, Lux Row Distillers is a Bourbon distillery spanning 90 acres, featuring an eighteenth-century stone house. Owned by the family behind the consumer products company Luxco, the distillery is located in the heart of Bardstown, Kentucky. Lux Row is the birthplace of renowned Bourbon brands such as Rebel, Blood Oath, David Nicholson, and Ezra Brooks Kentucky Straight Bourbon. The 18,000-square-foot facility includes a visitor centre, barrel warehouses, a tasting room, and event spaces, offering a comprehensive and immersive experience for Bourbon enthusiasts.
Can you share the inspiration behind using Oloroso casks for finishing Rebel 100 Bourbon?
I previously collaborated with another distiller on sherry-finished whiskey and was captivated by the subtle sweetness and complex flavours it brings. The Oloroso casks, in particular, impart delightful notes of fig and honey, which beautifully complement wheated Bourbon, leading to a well-rounded and nuanced drinking experience which both intrigues and satisfies the palate.
How do you balance tradition with innovation in whiskey-making?
I have great respect for the rich history associated with Bourbon in the USA, and this reverence guides my approach to innovation. When finishing Bourbon, I strive to ensure that the profile imparted by the finishing barrel is subtle, so it enhances rather than overwhelms the original Bourbon. My goal is to add a nuanced layer which elevates the overall taste experience while preserving the traditional characteristics that make Bourbon so beloved.
How do you determine when a Bourbon is ready to become a special edition?
By constantly tasting my Bourbon, I make conscious decisions about when one is ready for bottling straight, and when one is prime for a finish.
What do you see as the biggest challenges and opportunities for the Bourbon industry in the next five years?
It’s an exciting time: the international Bourbon industry is projected to grow rapidly over the next decade, driven by a burgeoning global fan base. This presents a significant opportunity for innovation, allowing us to create unique expressions which appeal to both seasoned Bourbon collectors and newcomers to the category. However, with this growth comes challenges such as navigating different regulatory environments, ensuring consistent quality across diverse markets, and staying true to the heritage of Bourbon while meeting evolving consumer tastes.
Who is your target consumer for Rebel 100 Bourbon Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish?
It is targeted at the Bourbon connoisseur who can appreciate the notes a Sherry finish can add. Sherry barrels are widely used in ageing Scotch, so I’m also looking at those consumers who appreciate the use of sherry barrels in whiskey maturation.
What is the best way to enjoy it?
As this is Rebel Bourbon, there are no rules. However, I would like to see consumers try it first neat, or with one ice cube, to really enjoy the notes from the finish. Then put it in whatever the hell you like!
What other brands have you created?
I’ve been doing this for 25 years and have been fortunate to be involved in the creation and growth of many great brands within our portfolio. My signature brand, Blood Oath, is my baby and near and dear to my heart. There’s also Rebel, Ezra Brooks, Daviess County, and David Nicholson.
What new releases can we expect next?
Well, I really can’t be specific because my marketing brand managers will get very angry! But I’m constantly creating new and exciting whiskeys, so be on the lookout.
Where does your interest in whiskey originate?
I’ve always been interested in fermentation. My grandfather was a chemist for one of the largest breweries in the world. I was fascinated by what he did, and when I got the opportunity to work with whiskeys, I jumped at it. I still love the fermentation side as much as maturation, blending, and finishing. It’s in my blood.
If not distilling, blending, and finishing, what would you do?
I actually went to school to become a physician. I was in Pre-Med when my parents’ good friend and our family doctor talked me out of it, I’m glad he did. I think I would have actually been miserable doing that and I absolutely love what I do for a living now.
If you had a superpower, what would it be?
I’d love to be able to slow down the passage of time. 25 years doing this has gone by way too fast. My grandson will be turning two in a few months though it seems like he was just born last week.
Who would you raise a glass of Rebel 100 Bourbon Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish to?
My parents. Although they’re both gone, I think about them daily. I would love one more chance to sit down and have a nice glass with them both.
Finally, where can we find Rebel 100 Bourbon Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish?
It is distributed by Craftwork in the UK and Kammer-Kirsch in Germany. 70cl bottles have an RRP of £44/€39.
luxrowdistillers.com
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