[5 minute read]

In Colorado, the legacy of grain runs deep. This year, we proudly introduce the special whiskey release—Barrel Fire 2.0.  Barrel Fire 2.0 is more than just a spirit—it’s a celebration of Colorado’s best grains, distillers, and the community they serve. Crafted collaboratively by Spirit Hound Distillers and Dry Land Distillers, this limited-edition whiskey blends Spirit Hound’s renowned single malt barley with Dry Land’s white Sonoran wheat, creating a blend that tells a story of local grains, friendship, and purpose.

The first release of Barrel Fire was sparked in 2023 to honor Andy Clark, co-founder of the Colorado Grain Chain and beloved friend. Andy was a connector—he cultivated relationships among farmers, millers, bakers, brewers, and distillers, always pushing for ways to illustrate the artistry behind staying connected to local agriculture, especially when it came to grains. Andy's passing in November of 2022 was met with an outpouring of love and a shared desire to create something to commemorate his remarkable impact upon the community. Spirit Hound Distillers and Dry Land Distillers teamed up to craft the first Barrel Fire whiskey in his memory. This unique whiskey project celebrates Andy's ability to unite and inspire collaboration through local grains. A ceremonial barrel fire, where community members burned notes to Andy, increased the char in a used whiskey barrel that was then filled with a blend of favorite whiskeys from both distilleries. This year, Barrel Fire 2.0 continues that legacy. 

Barrel Fire 2.0 is a limited-edition, Colorado grain whiskey, blending 67% single malt barley from Spirit Hound with 33% white Sonoran wheat from Dry Land Distillers, two of the top distillers in the country. Both grains hail from the San Luis Valley, where Jones Farms Organics, Colorado’s only Regenerative Organic Certified (R.O.C.) farm, grows the heritage white Sonoran wheat. The whiskey also incorporates a small amount of peat-smoked malt from Colorado Malting Company, rounding out the flavor with subtle smokiness.

This curated blend offers a smooth, balanced, and deeply rich whiskey with flavors that reflect the care and craftsmanship of both distilleries. Aged in a #3 char oak barrel from Independent Stave and cut to 90 proof with water from the St. Vrain Watershed. Barrel Fire 2.0 is much more than just a bottle on a shelf—it’s a tribute to a remarkable community, bottled to represent its meaningful impact. 

A key ingredient in Barrel Fire 2.0, white Sonoran wheat is an ancient heritage grain with a deep history. First introduced to the Sonoran Desert in the 1600s, it’s recognized as the one of the oldest wheats in the Americas. Known for its naturally sweet and nutty flavor, it brings a distinctive character to the whiskey that’s hard to miss.

White Sonoran wheat is also notable for its versatility in the grain world. With high protein content but lower gluten formation, it’s been traditionally used in baking tortillas and soft breads. Its adaptability to the dry American West makes it an ideal choice for regenerative organic agriculture. Grown by Jones Farms Organics, this wheat is a perfect example of sustainability in action and is listed in the Slow Food Arc of Taste, a recognition of its cultural and environmental significance. The wheat's unique profile enhances Barrel Fire 2.0, lending the whiskey both a historic and flavorful depth.

The release of Barrel Fire 2.0 is not just a nod to craftsmanship—it’s a tribute to Andy Clark’s legacy. His vision to develop strong relationships through regional grain led to the establishment of the Colorado Grain Chain, the non-profit organization that he co-founded to connect local farmers and artisan makers who believe in the power of locally sourced, Colorado-grown grains. Proceeds from this whiskey release directly support the Colorado Grain Chain’s mission to grow and connect a vibrant, community-centered grain economy in the state of Colorado. 

The Colorado Grain Chain’s efforts help expand local grain markets, from farmers, processors, to artisan makers, support projects like the Grain Exchange Marketplace, an online platform connecting buyers and sellers of local grains and run programs such as the Organic Grain Microgrant, that distributes resources to stimulate innovative value-added markets. Proceeds of the Barrel Fire 2.0 fundraising efforts will support the Colorado Grain Chain to expand these efforts and build internal stability as the organization grows. 

With fewer than 300 bottles available, Barrel Fire 2.0 offers a rare opportunity to support this grain-centric mission while enjoying a truly unique whiskey that embodies the spirit of Colorado grain.

Beyond the bottle, Barrel Fire 2.0 carries a legacy that honors the bonds within the local grain community. The original Barrel Fire was crafted and released at the first annual Wheatstock Grain & Music Festival, a celebration of grains, music, and craftsmanship that Andy dreamed up. The festival, now an annual gathering and fundraiser, has become a cherished event for the Colorado Grain Chain and a place where Andy’s memory lives on in the grains, the music, and the community.

Barrel Fire 2.0 was released this past fall at the second annual Wheatstock Festival, co-hosted by Spirit Hound Distillers, Dry Land Distillers, and Moxie Bread Co. It’s a bottle filled with the spirit of collaboration and the grain traditions that Andy loved so dearly.

For whiskey lovers, grain enthusiasts, and supporters of sustainable agriculture, Barrel Fire 2.0 is a must-have. By purchasing a bottle, you’re not only enjoying an exceptional spirit—you’re contributing to the future of Colorado’s grain economy and honoring the legacy of a true community builder. Visit Spirit Hound Distillers at their Lyons or Denver tasting room to pick up your bottle before this limited release sells out.