Foley Family Wines & Spirits Launches Ampersand
Foley Family Wines & Spirits has announced the launch of Ampersand, a collection of spirits crafted by whiskey veteran Chip Tate.
Ampersand is the first release from Tate since he joined Foley Family Wines & Spirits as Master Distiller for Innovation in January 2024. Ampersand includes three distinct expressions – Malus, Vinea, and Opimus – each inspired by the concept of combining complementary spirits to create an unexpected taste experience.
Ampersand Malus:
Ampersand Malus (Latin word for the genus of apple trees) is a blend of 51% 8 year old American rye whiskey and 49% 8 year old Calvados, a French apple brandy crafted from fruit grown in Normandy. Bottled at 92 proof (46% ABV) and presented non-chill filtered, Malus is described as having aromas of “rich fruit and spice,” a palate of “dark toffee and apple notes,” and a finish that is “long and dry.” The initial run of Malus is limited to 6,000 bottles and carries a suggested retail price of $59 for a 750 mL bottle.
Ampersand Vinea :
Ampersand Vinea (Latin for ‘vine’) is a blend of 75% 8 year old rye whiskey and 25% 9+ year old grain spirit made from 100% corn and aged in XO Cognac casks. Bottled at 92 proof (46% ABV) and presented non-chill filtered, Vinea is described as “a classic blend of grape and grain where the depth and complexity of the French oak from the XO Cognac complements the peppery rye spice and sweetness of the American oak.” Vinea is limited to 8,500 bottles and carries a suggested retail price of $59 for a 750 mL bottle.
Ampersand Opimus:
Ampersand Opimus (Latin for ‘rich or abundant’) is a 15 year old Kentucky bourbon finished in Tokaji casks, a sweet dessert wine from the Tokaj region in northeastern Hungary. Presented at a cask strength of 117 proof (58.5% ABV), it’s described as having aromas of “dark caramel, toasted oak, and dried fig, evolving into orchard fruits, floral honey, and subtle acidity from the Tokaji influence.” The palate is “long and warm, as the spice and oak persist, while honey, dried apricot, and orange zest leave a sweet, wine finish.” Opimus is limited to 11,500 bottles and carries a suggested retail price of $150 for a 750 mL bottle.
Ampersand is now available at retailers in most states and online at ampersandspirits.com.
Source: Foley Family Wines & Spirits.