The First Millionaire American Malted Barley Whiskey
The First Millionaire American Malted Barley Whiskey is a 90 proof (45% ABV), 750mL American whiskey made from 100% malted barley by Calistoga Depot Distillery in Calistoga, Napa Valley, California, aged 4 years in previously filled French oak casks that once held Napa Valley wine. It is available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
The name honours Samuel Brannan, who announced the 1848 Gold Rush and became California's first millionaire selling supplies to the 49ers — then founded Calistoga and built its depot and railroad in 1868. The Boisset Collection distills at that historic 1868 depot today, giving this old-world, all-barley mash bill a second life in ex-wine French oak. It has earned Gold at the Bartender Spirits Awards 2024, 93 points from The Tasting Panel and Double Gold / Finalist (92 points) at the TAG Global Spirits Awards.
Tasting profile: baked brown sugar, green apple and charred citrus on the aroma; caramel, clove and toasted oak on the palate; a golden, wine-cask softness underneath. The Tasting Panel found apple pie dusted with cinnamon and brown sugar. Browse the Calistoga Depot brand collection, more American whiskey, and the full whiskey collection at Del Mesa Liquor.
Serving note: sip neat or with a splash of water; the wine-cask barley character also suits an Old Fashioned-style serve.
What is The First Millionaire made from? 100% malted barley — an old-world mash bill — aged 4 years in previously filled French oak Napa Valley wine casks at Calistoga Depot Distillery.
Who was "the first millionaire"? Samuel Brannan, who announced the 1848 Gold Rush, became California's first millionaire supplying the 49ers, and went on to found Calistoga and build its 1868 depot.
What does it taste like? Baked brown sugar, green apple and charred citrus, with caramel, clove, toasted oak and an apple-pie warmth on the finish.
What is the ABV and size? 90 proof (45% ABV), 750mL.