Music legend Bob Dylan is adding a new whiskey to his collection with the promise that it will ‘combine Irish and American artistry’.
Dylan is widely regarded as one of the greatest songwriters of all time. He has written countless classics throughout his career, which has spanned for more than six decades.
However, although we all know the words to Blowin’ in the Wind and All Along the Watchtower, what many people might not realise is that Dylan has his own collection of American and Irish whiskeys.
The collection is named ‘Heaven’s Door’ as a nod to one of Dylan’s most famous and poignant songs, Knocking on Heaven’s Door.
Now his team at Heaven’s Door have teamed up with the expert blenders at Redbreast Irish Whiskey.
The spirit has been described as a ‘tribute to shared Irish and American artistry’.
Dylan worked on the drink himself, alongside Heaven’s Door Master Blender Ryan Perry and Redbreast Master Blender Billy Leighton.
More than a dozen blends were taste tested before the ingredients and method for the final product were agreed.
It is described as a “full and complex body by way of Rich Ripe Fruit, Red Apples, Figs and Dates, as well as an unmistakable nutty note of Marzipan and Ground Nut”.
Leighton said: “Mr. Dylan is a perfectionist and knows his whiskey. His engagement and enthusiasm for this collaboration made this project even more special.
“The Master Blenders’ Edition allows both the American and Irish Whiskey distilling traditions to shine through. We think fans of Redbreast, Heaven’s Door, and whiskey enthusiasts everywhere will be delighted with what they taste with this product.”
The early signs are good for the whiskey, as it has already won a double gold medal in a blind tasting at the 2021 San Francisco World Spirits competition.
Although Dylan was born and raised in Minnesota, he has always had an interest in Ireland and in particular traditional Irish music.
As a young musician, he would tag along with the popular Irish group the Clancy Brothers.
They recognised Dylan’s talent, and took him under their wing, helping him take his first steps into the professional music industry.
The Times Are A Changing singer has always kept that connection with Ireland close to his heart, and was delighted to take this opportunity to create something that shared both the Irish and American culture.
Summarising the project, Ryan Perry said: “Heaven’s Door was founded around the spirit of collaboration, and this was a dream partnership for our brand. I can honestly say that the final flavour profile blew us away.”
If you would like to find out more about the Heaven’s Door and Redbreast Irish Whiskey Master Blenders’ Edition, then visit reservebar.com.
To learn more about Bob Dylan and the Clancy Brothers then visit irishmusicdaily.com.