MGP Ingredients' Exclusive Tasting at Oro Whisky Bar

Oro Whisky opened its doors for an exclusive event dedicated to American whiskeys, featuring MGP Ingredients, a leader in rye whiskey production based in Indiana.

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Located in the Piramide area of Rome, Oro Whisky is a key destination for whiskey enthusiasts. With limited seating, a relaxed atmosphere, and a bar stocked with a carefully curated selection of labels, this venue is a must-visit for an after-dinner drink. On October 10, 2024, Oro Whisky hosted Michele Reina, brand ambassador for MGP Ingredients.

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MGP Ingredients: A Pillar of American Whiskey

The MGP Ingredients distillery, located in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, is a cornerstone of the American whiskey industry. Founded in 1941, it is renowned for producing high-quality whiskey, bourbon, and other spirits. Many independent brands rely on its recipes to craft their products. If you’ve purchased a rye or bourbon from Indiana, there’s a strong chance it was produced by MGP, regardless of the label on the bottle. Since 2021, MGP has begun bottling its own products, introducing George Remus Bourbon and Rossville Union Rye from the Ross & Squibb distillery.

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MGP’s Technological Excellence

“The distillery’s success,” explains Michele Reina, “lies in its ability to combine tradition with advanced technology, making it a leader in producing high-rye mash bills.”

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Rye is a challenging raw material to process. When mixed with hot water, it releases beta-glucans (a natural gum), making the mash difficult to mix and pump through production systems. This also increases the risk of contamination during fermentation. Additionally, rye mash tends to foam during distillation, increasing the likelihood of spillage and contamination in the distillation column.

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George Remus Bourbon

The George Remus line is named after the “King of Bourbon,” George Remus, a pharmacist who, during Prohibition, purchased distilleries (including the Squibb distillery) to produce spirits for medicinal purposes. These distilleries were then “robbed,” and the whiskey was sold on the black market. Remus is considered an inspiration for the protagonist of *The Great Gatsby*.

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Michele Reina presented the Remus Straight Bourbon Whiskey, a high-rye bourbon with rye making up 21% to 31% of the mash bill and an alcohol volume of 47%. On tasting, it is pleasant yet sharp, with vanilla notes. Compared to bourbons with lower rye content, this one has a subtler sweetness and a spicier character, making it an intriguing addition to any bar.

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The Rossville Union Ryes

Rossville Union Ryes are produced from a blend of three different mash bills, with undisclosed proportions:

- 95% rye, 5% barley

- 51% rye, 49% barley

- 51% rye, 45% corn, 4% barley

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Master Crafted Straight Rye Whiskey (5 years, 47%)

On tasting, it is creamy and slightly spicy, with earthy (in a positive sense), fruity, and tobacco notes. The finish is clean. This rye, rich in flavor, is excellent for mixing: its earthy notes enhance cocktails like a Manhattan or a Toronto. It could also serve as an intriguing base for a Mint Julep.

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Bottled In Bond Straight Rye Whiskey (6 years, 50%)

The term “Bottled in Bond” ensures strict production standards. This rye has a rounded and delicate body despite its high alcohol content. Sweet and spicy, it offers notes of caramel and cinnamon. For mixing, it works well in cocktails like an Old Fashioned or a Sazerac, although it might be too delicate for more complex preparations.

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Master Crafted Straight Rye Whiskey Barrel Proof (7 years, 58.5%)

For lovers of bold, authentic rye, this undiluted whiskey offers a robust character. Notes of chocolate, burnt wood, and vanilla accompany the intensely spicy flavor of rye. This whiskey makes a strong impression in any cocktail.

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Wrapping Up: A Night of Whiskey Discovery

Oro Whisky’s event with MGP Ingredients was more than just a tasting—it was an opportunity to dive deep into the craftsmanship behind some of America’s finest whiskeys. Whether you're a bourbon fan or a rye enthusiast, MGP’s range offers something unique for every palate.

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For those in Rome who missed this event, Oro Whisky continues to be a must-visit destination for whiskey lovers, curating exceptional bottles and hosting events that bring the world of whiskey to life.

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#Exciting News

We are thrilled to share some fantastic news with you! At the upcoming Roma Whisky Festival on March 1st and 2nd, Michele Reina will be hosting a Ross&Squibb Distillery Master Class.

This is a rare opportunity to deepen your appreciation of whisky as you listen to Michele’s insights while experiencing the rich flavors and aromas firsthand. Don’t miss out on this exclusive tasting experience!

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Ross&Squibb Distillery Master Class:

https://romawhiskyfestival.it/evento/rosssquibb-distillery-i-maestri-del-rye/

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MGP Ingredients

Ross & Squibb Distillery in Lawrenceburg, Indiana.

https://www.mgpingredients.com/branded-spirits/ross-squibb-distillery

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Michele Reina 

A well-known figure in the whiskey industry. He brings profound knowledge of spirits and a commitment to offering high-quality products to a wider audience. He is the visionary behind both the London Bourbon Experience and Odyssey.‍

https://www.michelereina.com/

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