Wausau Pilot & Review
Knowlton – A local craft distillery is bringing home gold from the recent American Craft Spirits Association’s 11th annual tasting competition in Denver.
Knowlton House Distillery’s line of TenHead spirits, distilled from pure milk sugar, caught the judge’s eye in both the vodka and gin categories.
Located just south of Mosinee, Knowlton House Distillery opened its doors this past August. This was the first tasting competition for the distillery. “We entered the competition to get opinions from their expert judges. As a new distillery, that feedback is very valuable.”, said Heather Mullins, co-founder and head distiller at Knowlton House. “When they called TenHead vodka as a gold medal winner, we were stunned. We felt we were crafting something special, but to have a panel of experts agree was very validating.”
The distillery’s flagship product line, called TenHead, includes vodka and gin crafted from pure milk sugar (whey), a byproduct of making cheese. Founded by Luke and Heather Mullins, the distillery combines Luke’s expertise as a 4th generation cheesemaker with Heather’s background in brewing and distillation.
“Guests are often surprised that we distill vodka from milk sugar because it’s uncommon. But using milk sugars makes for an exceptionally smooth spirit. ” Mullins said. “We’re just proud that we can do it justice. As a dairy family from the Dairy State, we’re committed to showcasing milk sugars at their best.”
In addition to their gold medal win in the vodka category, TenHead Woodland Dry Gin also took home a silver. No gold medals were awarded in the London Dry Gin category.
The ACSA’s blind-tasting competition brings together a panel of experts to judge craft spirits from throughout the country. Spirits are evaluated in a variety of categories from aroma to finish. Medals are awarded based on the score or merit of the individual spirit, similar to point ratings you may see on wines.
Currently, TenHead Spirits are available exclusively at Knowlton House Distillery. However, they begin state-wide distribution in April. Spirits enthusiasts can expect to see TenHead in local liquor stores, restaurants and bars this summer.
The American Craft Spirits Association (ACSA) is the nation’s only national registered non-profit trade association representing the U.S. craft spirits industry.
