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Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey – A Rocky Mountain Legacy in Every Sip

Updated → July 2025

Award-winning Colorado bourbon crafted from 100% local grains, Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey delivers smooth caramel sweetness at 94 proof. Now available at Wagon Wheel Liquors for $52.99 with convenient Durango pickup.

The Colorado Bourbon Boom: Why Local Matters

Colorado's craft distillery scene has exploded by 15.5% in 2018 alone, transforming the Centennial State into a serious bourbon powerhouse. While Kentucky might wear the crown, Colorado distillers are writing their own rules—and Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey stands as a prime example of this revolution.

The numbers tell a compelling story. With over 90 distilleries now operating across Colorado, the state has become the third-largest producer of craft spirits in America. What sets Colorado bourbon apart? Altitude, for one—spirits age differently at 6,500+ feet, creating unique flavor profiles impossible to replicate at sea level. The dramatic temperature swings between day and night accelerate the aging process, pulling more character from the oak barrels in less time.

But it's not just geography driving this boom. Colorado consumers spend 40% more on premium spirits than the national average, creating a sophisticated market that demands excellence. This local enthusiasm has pushed distillers like Durango Craft Spirits to innovate while honoring tradition, resulting in bourbons that compete with century-old Kentucky brands on the world stage.

Head-to-Head: Cinder Dick vs. Colorado's Finest

How does Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey stack up against other Colorado bourbons? Let's break down the competition:

Bourbon

Price

Proof

Age

Key Notes

Cinder Dick

$52.99

94

2-4 years

Caramel, sweet corn, oak

Breckenridge

$60-65

86

3+ years

Butterscotch, brown sugar, pepper

291 Colorado

$55-60

95.2

1+ year

Vanilla, citrus, hoppy notes

Leopold Bros.

$65-70

100

4+ years

Complex, malty, unique yeast

Peach Street

$45-50

92

2+ years

Vanilla-forward, balanced

What immediately stands out is Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey's sweet spot positioning. At $52.99 and 94 proof, it delivers more punch than Breckenridge while undercutting premium options like Leopold Bros. The 2-4 year aging puts it right in the Colorado sweet spot—long enough to develop character, short enough to retain grain-forward brightness.

From Ute Mountain Corn to Your Glass

Every drop of Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey tells a distinctly Colorado story. The journey begins in Towaoc, where the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe cultivates non-GMO white corn on ancestral lands. This isn't just marketing—it's a genuine grain-to-glass philosophy that sets Durango Craft Spirits apart.

The distillery purchases 2 tons of grains monthly from Colorado Malting Company in Alamosa, where harsh growing conditions actually enhance flavor development. As one maltster explains, stressed grains produce more complex flavors—similar to how challenging vineyard conditions create exceptional wines. The mashbill combines this hardy Colorado corn with wheat, rye, barley, malted wheat, and malted two-row barley, creating layers of flavor impossible to achieve with commodity grains.

Inside the downtown Durango distillery at 1120 Main Avenue, these grains undergo transformation in copper pot stills. The spirit then enters American white oak barrels with a deep char, where Colorado's dramatic temperature swings work their magic. Production has doubled from two barrels monthly to four, responding to a 25% increase in tasting room sales and 20% growth in distribution.

The Durango Craft Spirits Story

Behind every bottle of Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey stands Michael McCardell, a distiller with a vision. "I wanted to be like a distillery would have been 100 years ago," McCardell explains. His commitment to using only regional grains has created what many call a true terroir bourbon—one that tastes like Colorado.

The distillery name itself carries Durango's colorful history. Operating as the town's first legal grain-to-glass distillery since Prohibition, Durango Craft Spirits embraces the frontier spirit that built the West. Their three flagship products—Soiled Doves Vodka, Mayday Moonshine, and Cinder Dick Bourbon—each honor local legends and characters from Durango's wild past.

The recent 1,500-square-foot expansion speaks to their success. More than just added capacity, it represents a commitment to maintaining quality while meeting growing demand. Every Friday night, the distillery transforms into a community gathering spot with live local music, proving that great bourbon brings people together.

Tasting Notes: What Makes Cinder Dick Special

Pour a glass of Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey and you'll immediately notice its rich amber color with hints of burnt orange. The 94-proof strength announces itself without overwhelming, creating perfect balance for both sipping and mixing.

On the nose, expect waves of caramel and vanilla, followed by subtle notes of toasted corn and oak. The Ute Mountain corn contributes a distinctive sweetness—cleaner and brighter than typical bourbon corn. Take a sip and the complexity unfolds: brown sugar and maple syrup lead, followed by hints of cinnamon and dried fruit. The rye contributes a pleasant spice that prevents the sweetness from becoming cloying.

The finish surprises with its length and evolution. Initial sweetness gives way to warm baking spices and a touch of leather, with just enough oak tannins to provide structure. At 94 proof, it carries enough weight to stand up in cocktails while remaining approachable neat. Add a few drops of water and hidden notes of honey and stone fruit emerge.

Awards & Industry Recognition

The medal collection behind Durango Craft Spirits' bar tells a story of consistent excellence. Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey has earned recognition from:

  • American Distilling Institute - Bronze Medal
  • Denver International Spirits Competition - Gold Medal
  • North American Bourbon and Whiskey Competition - Silver Medal
  • Colorado Distillers Guild - Best in Category

These accolades matter because they come from blind tastings where Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey competed against established Kentucky brands and other craft distilleries. The consistent medal wins across different competitions prove this isn't a fluke—it's a bourbon that impresses diverse palates.

Industry publications have taken notice too. Whiskey Advocate praised its "clean, smooth quality" while The Bourbon Review highlighted the unique terroir created by Colorado ingredients. Local recognition matters equally—Durango residents have voted it "Best Local Spirit" three years running.

The Perfect Pour: Serving Suggestions

Master distiller Michael McCardell has strong opinions about enjoying Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey. His preferred method? Neat in a Glencairn glass at room temperature, allowing the full spectrum of flavors to shine. But this versatile bourbon rewards experimentation.

For newcomers to cask-strength bourbon, try the "Kentucky chew"—take a small sip, let it coat your mouth, and gently chew before swallowing. This technique opens up flavors you might miss with a quick gulp. Adding a single ice cube or a few drops of water can transform the experience, tempering the alcohol while releasing hidden aromatic compounds.

Temperature matters more than most realize. Store your bottle at room temperature, but experiment with serving temperatures. Some prefer their bourbon slightly chilled, which emphasizes sweetness and smooths rough edges. Others enjoy it warmed in their hands, which amplifies the nose and intensifies spice notes.

Signature Cocktail Recipes

While Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey shines neat, it also elevates classic cocktails. Here are three must-try recipes:

The Durango Old Fashioned

  • 2 oz Cinder Dick Bourbon
  • 1 sugar cube
  • 3 dashes Angostura bitters
  • Orange peel
  • Luxardo cherry

Muddle sugar and bitters, add bourbon and ice, stir until chilled. Express orange oils over the surface and garnish with peel and cherry.

Rocky Mountain Manhattan

  • 2 oz Cinder Dick Bourbon
  • 1 oz sweet vermouth
  • 2 dashes cherry bitters
  • Brandied cherry garnish

Stir ingredients with ice, strain into chilled coupe. The bourbon's natural sweetness balances perfectly with quality vermouth.

Cinder Dick Sour

  • 2 oz Cinder Dick Bourbon
  • 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 oz maple syrup
  • Egg white (optional)
  • Lemon wheel garnish

Dry shake ingredients, add ice and shake again. Strain into rocks glass over fresh ice. The maple syrup echoes the bourbon's inherent sweetness.

Food Pairing Guide

The complex flavor profile of Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey makes it a versatile companion at the dinner table. Its caramel sweetness and oak structure complement both savory and sweet dishes.

For appetizers, pair with aged cheeses like sharp cheddar or smoked gouda. The bourbon's sweetness balances the salt while its proof cuts through rich fats. Charcuterie plates featuring spiced meats and nuts create beautiful harmony. Try it with candied pecans or bacon-wrapped dates for an elevated experience.

Main courses that shine include grilled steaks with char marks that echo the bourbon's barrel char. Barbecued pork ribs with a bourbon glaze create a flavor echo that amplifies both food and drink. For lighter options, cedar-plank salmon or duck breast with cherry reduction provide elegant pairings. Vegetarians shouldn't miss pairing with grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted root vegetables.

Dessert pairings reach sublime heights. Dark chocolate with 70% cacao or higher brings out hidden cocoa notes in the bourbon. Pecan pie creates a Southern classic combination, while crème brûlée's caramelized sugar mirrors the bourbon's own caramel notes. Even vanilla ice cream becomes special with a small pour over top.

Price Point Analysis: Getting Your Money's Worth

At $52.99, Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey occupies the sweet spot between budget and premium. Compare this to nationally distributed brands like Buffalo Trace ($25-30) or Maker's Mark ($30-35), and you're paying a $20 premium for true craft quality and local sourcing.

But value extends beyond price tags. Mass-produced bourbons often use commodity grains from multiple states, aged in massive warehouses with minimal oversight. Cinder Dick's grain-to-glass approach means you're tasting Colorado terroir in every sip. The small-batch production (remember, just four barrels monthly) ensures consistent quality control impossible at industrial scales.

Consider too the proof point. At 94 proof, you're getting more bourbon for your dollar compared to standard 80-proof options. This higher alcohol content means better performance in cocktails and more intense flavors when sipping neat. Factor in the award recognition and you're looking at a bourbon that punches well above its price class.

Where to Buy in Durango

While Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey is available at several retailers, Wagon Wheel Liquors offers distinct advantages for Durango bourbon enthusiasts.

First, the price: at $52.99, Wagon Wheel beats competitors like Springs Liquor ($59.99) and Steins & Vines ($62.99). But savings extend beyond the sticker price. Take advantage of their legendary Happy Hour (Monday-Friday, 4-6 PM) for an additional 10% off when paying with cash or local check, bringing your cost down to just $47.69.

Location convenience matters too. Situated at 30 Town Plaza with ample free parking, Wagon Wheel has served the same location for over 60 years. Their knowledgeable staff can guide you through their extensive Colorado spirits collection, suggesting complementary purchases or alternative local options if Cinder Dick happens to be out of stock.

Pro tip: Call ahead at (970) 247-1655 to reserve your bottle, especially during peak tourist season or holidays when local favorites sell quickly.

Storage & Collection Tips

Proper storage ensures your Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey maintains its quality from first pour to last. Unlike wine, bourbon doesn't improve in the bottle, but improper storage can definitely degrade it.

Store bottles upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. That sunny kitchen windowsill might look attractive, but UV rays break down compounds in the whiskey, altering flavor. Ideal storage temperature ranges from 60-70°F—basically room temperature in most homes. Avoid basements prone to dampness or attics with extreme temperature swings.

Once opened, bourbon slowly oxidizes. While it won't go "bad" like wine, flavors can flatten over time. Most experts recommend finishing an opened bottle within 1-2 years for optimal taste. If you're down to the last quarter of a bottle, consider transferring to a smaller container to minimize air exposure.

For collectors, Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey represents an interesting opportunity. As Colorado's craft distillery scene matures, early bottles from successful distilleries often appreciate in value. Keep your bottles in original packaging and consider buying extras of limited releases.

Gift-Giving & Special Occasions

Looking for the perfect Colorado gift? Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey checks all the boxes: locally made, award-winning, and with a story worth sharing. The distinctive name guarantees conversation, while the quality ensures appreciation.

For corporate gifts, this bourbon speaks to Colorado pride and craftsmanship. Pair it with local artisan chocolates or Colorado-made bourbon glasses for an elevated presentation. Wedding parties appreciate the local connection—consider custom labels for groomsmen gifts or rehearsal dinner favors.

Holiday gifting becomes effortless when you choose local. Wagon Wheel Liquors offers gift wrapping services and can create custom baskets combining Cinder Dick with other Colorado spirits. Their staff excels at recommendations for complementary items like bitters, bourbon stones, or cocktail recipe books.

Special occasions calling for Cinder Dick include housewarmings (nothing says "welcome to Colorado" quite like local bourbon), retirement parties (celebrating a job well done with craft spirits), and milestone birthdays (turning 21, 30, 40, or beyond deserves quality bourbon).

Sustainability & Local Impact

Every bottle of Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey supports Colorado's agricultural economy. The partnership with Ute Mountain Ute Tribe provides sustainable income for indigenous farmers while preserving traditional farming practices. Colorado Malting Company's involvement keeps grain dollars within state borders.

The environmental footprint shrinks dramatically when ingredients travel dozens of miles instead of thousands. Traditional bourbon production often involves corn from Iowa, wheat from Kansas, and barley from Montana—all shipped to Kentucky for processing. Durango Craft Spirits' hyperlocal approach reduces transportation emissions while ensuring fresher ingredients.

Water usage matters in drought-prone Colorado. The distillery implements water recycling systems and partners with local conservation groups to offset their usage. Spent grains don't go to waste either—local farmers collect them for livestock feed, creating a circular economy that benefits the entire community.

Supporting Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey means supporting local jobs, from farmers to distillers to retailers like Wagon Wheel Liquors. Each purchase strengthens Durango's economy and encourages continued innovation in craft spirits.

The Expert Verdict

After extensive tasting and comparison, Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey emerges as a standout in Colorado's competitive bourbon landscape. It successfully balances craft authenticity with approachable flavors, local sourcing with universal appeal.

The 94-proof strength provides versatility few competitors match. Sip it neat to appreciate the grain-to-glass philosophy, or mix it in cocktails where its robust character shines through. The $52.99 price point at Wagon Wheel Liquors represents genuine value—you're paying for quality ingredients, careful production, and proven excellence.

What truly sets this bourbon apart is its sense of place. Unlike mass-produced alternatives, every sip connects you to Colorado's mountains, its farmers, and its frontier spirit. The awards validate what locals already know: this is bourbon worth seeking out, sharing, and savoring.

Whether you're a bourbon connoisseur exploring Colorado's craft scene or a casual drinker seeking something special, Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey delivers. Stop by Wagon Wheel Liquors today and taste the Rocky Mountain difference for yourself.

Ready to Experience Colorado Bourbon Excellence?

Visit Wagon Wheel Liquors at 30 Town Plaza in Durango or call (970) 247-1655 to reserve your bottle of Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey today. Don't forget—Happy Hour runs Monday-Friday 4-6 PM for extra savings!

Open Monday-Saturday 8:30 AM-10:00 PM | Sunday 9:00 AM-9:00 PM

Available at Wagon Wheel Liquors

Wagon Wheel Liquors
30 Town Plaza, Durango, CO81303
(970) 247-1655
info@wagonwheelliquors.com
Monday-Saturday: -
Sunday: -

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Cinder Dick Bourbon different from other Colorado whiskeys?

Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey stands apart through its 100% Colorado grain sourcing, including non-GMO corn from the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe. The grain-to-glass philosophy and 94-proof strength create a uniquely Colorado terroir you won't find in mass-produced bourbons.

How should I serve Cinder Dick Bourbon for the best experience?

Master distiller Michael McCardell recommends serving neat at room temperature in a Glencairn glass. For cocktails, the 94-proof strength shines in Old Fashioneds and Manhattans. Adding a few drops of water opens up hidden honey and fruit notes.

Is the Happy Hour discount at Wagon Wheel Liquors available on bourbon?

Yes! Wagon Wheel Liquors offers 10% off all liquor including Durango Spirits Cinder Dick Colorado Straight Bourbon Whiskey during Happy Hour (Monday-Friday 4-6 PM) when paying with cash or local check. This brings the price down from $52.99 to just $47.69.

What food pairs best with Cinder Dick Bourbon?

The caramel sweetness and oak structure of this bourbon pair beautifully with grilled steaks, barbecued ribs, aged cheeses, and dark chocolate desserts. For a Colorado-themed pairing, try it with local elk or bison preparations.

Drink responsibly. 21+ only.