Editor’s Note: We received a review sample of this whiskey from the brand. However, in accordance with our editorial policies, this has not influenced the outcome of our review in any way.
Jeptha Creed, introduced in 2016, is a small Kentucky craft whiskey distillery that is unique in this busy bourbon landscape in several ways. Owned and operated by Joyce and Autumn Nethery, a mother-daughter duo, Jeptha Creed is deep into using heirloom corn in its bourbons, with a particular focus on Bloody Butcher Corn grown on the over 1,000-acre Nethery family farm.
In addition to the corn they grow, the family-run farm distillery sources from other farms in the area for different needs, helping them hold to what they describe as a ground-to-glass concept that strongly supports local agriculture. Joyce Nethery is the master distiller here, having previously earned a Master’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Louisville’s Speed Scientific School and for 15 years working as a process engineer in industrial-scale distillation.
The portion of the farm dedicated to the distillery is 64 acres, and it is covered in crops that produce the grain, corn, fruits, and other ingredients used in Jeptha Creed’s spirits, which, besides the whiskey, include vodka, moonshine, and brandy made from fresh, locally grown pawpaw fruit.
Located along the Kentucky Bourbon Trail Craft Tour, Jeptha Creed Distillery is open to visitors and offers tasting experiences and tours. Its name comes from the Jeptha Knobs, where the Nethery family farm is located.
What’s in the bottle
The bourbon being reviewed from their lineup here is the Jeptha Creed Red, White & Blue Kentucky Straight Bourbon. Aged at least four years, it is distilled from red bloody butcher corn (25%), heirloom white corn (25%), Bruce’s blue corn (a varietal Joyce’s husband, Bruce, came up with – 20%), malted rye (20%), and malted barley (5%). It is bottled at 100 proof and priced at $74.99.
This bourbon is noted as being an annual tribute to veterans, with a portion of sales donated to local veteran organizations.
