While not nearly as romantic as the Van Winkle legend, Black Maple Hill is slowly becoming the next "must have" Bourbon (and of course Rye). It's a quality, everyday Bourbon that currently has trouble sourcing enough supply. What it does have, however, is the makings of a cult whiskey, and that's exactly what's happening. Here's the magic formula: 1) It has a wonderfully romantic label, much like the Van Winkle's with Pappy smoking the cigar. The sketch of the Kentucky forest, the script writing, the rustic look, etc. 2) It has a fantastic name. Most people think Black Maple Hill is a place or a distillery. What a magical place that must be! It makes you want to go there and drink Bourbon, surrounded by the eponymous maple trees. 3) It's contents are unknown. No one but the blenders know how old it is or what it's made from. All we know is that it tastes good. 4) It's now becoming difficult to get due to supply shortages and that makes people want it even more! The truth is that Black Maple Hill is neither a distillery nor a place of origin. It's an independent label owned by my friend Paul Joseph in San Carlos (famous for his wines). Paul pays Kentucky Bourbon Distillers (Willett, Vintage 17, Pure Kentucky, Noah's Mill, Rowan's Creek, etc.) to make this blend for him and then he slaps the label on it. So, in reality, Black Maple Hill is a Bourbon that's blended in Kentucky. Recent developments however have seen the bourbon and Rye distilled by the Stein Distillery in Oregon. This move has made the bourbon and ryes must much attainable and at more reasonable prices.