The Intersection of Art & Science
Good whiskey is crafted at the intersection of both art and science, and our whiskey is certainly made with both spheres in mind. Our inspiration comes from Michigan’s tranquil landscapes, and our production techniques are deeply rooted in the centuries-old history of Old World cognacs and brandies. This blog shares more about both and what it takes to craft the pinnacle of blended spirits.
Inspiration: the Art
The Fox & Oden name pays homage to the community of Oden, Michigan, nestled at the northernmost tip of Michigan’s lower peninsula. This small town is part of Littlefield Township, where approximately 3,000 people reside. It is where wildlife surpasses people, surrounded by wooded landscapes and exuding a quiet and wild charm.
Oden sits on the shores of Crooked Lake, with its streams eventually merging into the frigid waters of the Great Lake Huron. It borders Canada and acres of untamed northern wilderness. In the late 1880s, Oden was a bustling destination, and summer cottages lined the lakeshore, providing city dwellers a retreat “Up North” for a season of tranquility.
Fox & Oden whiskies are meticulously crafted with this serene backdrop in mind, drawing inspiration from the rugged bounty and natural beauty of Michigan. Our spirits pay homage to wild northern landscapes that beckon visitors to both Oden and the outdoors. The desire for escape and a connection with nature finds expression in every sip of our spirits, creating a sensory experience that reflects the essence of Oden’s serene charm and the untamed allure of the northern wilderness.
Old World Distilling: the Science
Our team uses Old World techniques in our proofing methods. Our slow-reduction proofing maintains the congeners (the delicate flavor constituents of the spirit), while preventing saponification (the unwanted breaking apart of fatty acids). This meticulous approach preserves more nuanced flavor notes and results in a whiskey that is rounder, smoother, and better integrated.
To ensure the highest quality, our team also embraces a fractional blending technique inspired by the Solera method. Barrel vintages are hand-selected, always retaining a portion of the previous batch to be seamlessly incorporated into the next. Consistency is paramount, with the oldest stock serving as the cornerstone for each batch, combined with a variety of vintages. This method imparts depth, smoothness, and complexity to every release, ensuring a distinctive and exceptional whiskey experience.
Looking Forward
Our team is proud to offer four distinct, award-winning whiskies as part of our offerings: Straight Bourbon, Double Oaked Straight Bourbon, American Single Malt, and Straight Rye. Each of these whiskies offers a full-bodied sip that complements a walk in the woods. Cheers to the wilderness and to a whiskey that encapsulates the familiar taste of home.
You can acquire Fox & Oden whiskeys conveniently online, at our tasting rooms, or find them at a retailer near you. Stay updated on all things Fox & Oden by following us on Facebook and Instagram. Cheers!
