In the heart of Wisconsin’s farmland, just north of Madison, lies the small town of Arlington. While it may not be a bustling metropolis, Arlington is home to a hidden gem in the world of craft spirits: J. Henry & Sons Distillery. This family-owned operation has quickly become a cornerstone of Arlington’s local culture and a destination for bourbon enthusiasts from across the Midwest.
The Henry Family Legacy
J. Henry & Sons is more than just a distillery; it’s a continuation of a farming tradition that spans generations. The Henry family has been cultivating crops on their 440-acre farm since 1946. Joe Henry, along with his wife Liz, made the decision to venture into bourbon production in 2008 after a visit to Kentucky’s Bourbon Trail. This pivot wasn’t just a business move; it was a way to preserve their family’s agricultural heritage.
What sets J. Henry & Sons apart is their commitment to using heirloom red corn in their bourbon production. This variety of corn, developed at the University of Wisconsin in 1939, was once a staple crop on the Henry farm. When Joe decided to use it in his bourbon, he faced a significant challenge: the corn was no longer widely grown. Undeterred, the Henry family worked with the University of Wisconsin to revive this heirloom variety, starting with just 1,200 kernels. It took nearly three years to propagate enough seed to plant a full crop, but the result was worth the wait.
The Bourbon-Making Process
J. Henry & Sons takes a unique approach to bourbon production. While the distillation occurs off-site at 45th Parallel Distillery in New Richmond, Wisconsin, every other aspect of the process is carefully controlled by the Henry family. The grain bill consists of their homegrown red corn, wheat, and rye, with malted barley sourced from Briess Malt in Waterloo, Wisconsin.
After distillation, the new make spirit returns to the Henry farm for aging. The former dairy barn has been converted into a rickhouse, where the bourbon barrels experience Wisconsin’s extreme temperature fluctuations. These dramatic swings, which can reach up to 165 degrees Fahrenheit in a single year, contribute to the unique flavor profile of J. Henry bourbon.
The aging process lasts a minimum of five years, with Joe Henry Jr. overseeing the blending process to ensure consistency and quality. This attention to detail has resulted in a bourbon that’s distinctly Wisconsonian, with a flavor profile that stands out in the crowded craft spirits market.
The Tasting Experience
Visitors to J. Henry & Sons are in for a treat. The tasting room, located in Joe Henry’s childhood home, offers a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflects the family’s deep roots in the community. Tours are available Thursday through Monday, providing guests with an in-depth look at the bourbon-making process.
The tour begins with a slideshow presentation that explains the distillation process, compensating for the fact that the actual distilling occurs off-site. Guests are then led through the rickhouses, where they can witness the aging process firsthand. The sight of hundreds of barrels, neatly stacked and filled with slowly maturing bourbon, is a testament to the patience required in crafting a quality spirit.
The highlight of any visit is, of course, the tasting. J. Henry & Sons currently offers three main expressions of their bourbon: Small Batch, Patton Road Reserve, and Bellefontaine Reserve. Each has its own distinct character, showcasing the versatility of their heirloom red corn mash bill.
The Small Batch bourbon is their flagship offering, presenting a well-balanced flavor profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice. The Patton Road Reserve is a higher proof expression, offering a bolder taste with more pronounced oak and spice notes. The Bellefontaine Reserve, aged for a minimum of five years, is a testament to the impact of Wisconsin’s climate on bourbon aging, with a complex flavor that includes hints of dark fruit and tobacco.
Beyond the Bottle
J. Henry & Sons isn’t just about producing great bourbon; it’s about creating an experience. The distillery often hosts events that bring together bourbon enthusiasts and novices alike. From cocktail classes to food pairing events, these gatherings have helped to foster a community around the brand.
For those looking to enjoy J. Henry bourbon at home, the distillery offers cocktail recipes on their website. One popular option is their take on the classic Old Fashioned, which highlights the unique flavor profile of their bourbon. They also provide suggestions for food pairings, with their Small Batch bourbon complementing everything from grilled meats to rich desserts.
A Bright Future
As J. Henry & Sons continues to grow, they remain committed to their roots in Arlington. The distillery has become a point of pride for the community, attracting visitors and putting this small Wisconsin town on the map for bourbon lovers.
Looking ahead, the Henry family is exploring new expressions of their bourbon, including a much-anticipated rye whiskey. They’re also working on expanding their distribution, allowing more people to experience their unique Wisconsin-made bourbon.
J. Henry & Sons is more than just a distillery; it’s a testament to the power of family, tradition, and innovation. By blending time-honored farming practices with modern distilling techniques, they’ve created a bourbon that’s truly one-of-a-kind. For anyone visiting Arlington, a stop at J. Henry & Sons is not just recommended – it’s essential for understanding the spirit of this small Wisconsin town.