More Than Just a Drink: The Story Behind Anderson & Link Whiskey Company

At Anderson & Link Whiskey Company, every bottle tells a story. It’s a story of a unique connection, shared passions, and the relentless pursuit of the perfect dram. It’s a story that began with an unexpected encounter and blossomed into the enduring bond between two friends: Curtis Link and Jon Anderson.

Their paths first crossed in an unusual way. While Curtis was serving his country with dedication in the United States Army, he met a young Jon Anderson, just six years old at the time. It was a brief but perhaps formative interaction, a moment in time that neither could have fully grasped the significance of in the years to come. For Curtis, it was one of countless interactions during his service. For young Jon, it was likely a memorable encounter with a soldier.

Life, as it often does, led Curtis and Jon down separate paths as Jon grew and Curtis continued his military service. But fate had a different plan in store. In 2014, their paths crossed once again, this time as adults. This reunion sparked a rediscovery of a connection that had lain dormant for years. It was during this time that they unearthed a burgeoning shared interest – the captivating world of whiskey.

What started as casual exploration quickly evolved into a deep dive into the nuances of distillation, aging, and the diverse profiles offered by whiskies from around the globe. Bourbon’s sweet vanilla notes, the smoky peat of Scotch, the smooth character of Irish Whiskey, and the spicy complexity of Rye – they sampled it all. Each tasting session became a learning experience, a journey through the rich history and regional variations of this beloved spirit.

Through their extensive exploration, both Curtis and Jon independently arrived at a singular conclusion: the unique and often elusive taste of aged Single Malt Rye whiskey held a special allure. It possessed a depth and character that resonated with their palates in a way that other whiskies, while enjoyable, simply didn’t match. The inherent spiciness of rye, when meticulously malted and patiently aged, transformed into something truly exceptional – a complex tapestry of flavors that could range from warm baking spices and dark fruit to subtle floral and earthy undertones.

However, their newfound favorite presented a challenge. The market for aged Single Malt Rye whiskey was, and to a large extent still is, relatively limited. While rye whiskey itself has seen a resurgence in popularity, the specific category of single malt rye – meaning a rye whiskey made from 100% malted rye at a single distillery – remained a rare and often difficult find.

This scarcity didn’t deter Curtis and Jon; in fact, it ignited a passion. They weren’t content with simply searching for the perfect bottle; they began to envision crafting it themselves. Curtis’s military background had instilled in him discipline and perseverance, qualities that, combined with Jon’s own drive and enthusiasm, formed a powerful partnership. Their mission became clear: to create an exceptional Single Malt Rye whiskey that would satisfy their own discerning palates and, hopefully, the palates of other whiskey enthusiasts who appreciated this unique style.

The following years were a testament to their dedication. They immersed themselves in the intricacies of whiskey production, researching different rye varietals, malting processes, and the impact of various cask types and aging conditions. They sought out experts, devoured books, and tirelessly experimented (though perhaps not in a formal distillery setting at this early stage!). Their focus remained steadfast on unlocking the full potential of malted rye.

After years of diligent research and exploration, they finally landed on a special recipe – a carefully considered mash bill of 100% malted rye, crafted with a specific vision for its final flavor profile. This wasn't a recipe pulled from a textbook; it was a culmination of their shared experiences, their individual preferences, and a deep understanding of the raw ingredients.

With their recipe finalized, the next crucial step was time. They understood that true excellence in whiskey often comes down to patient aging. They secured high-quality barrels and entrusted their carefully distilled spirit to the slow, transformative process of maturation. They chose to let their Single Malt Rye whiskey age for more than four years. This extended aging period was a deliberate decision, allowing the whiskey to develop a remarkable depth of flavor, a smooth character, and a complexity that only time can impart.

Those years were filled with anticipation and careful monitoring. Curtis and Jon understood that each season, each change in temperature and humidity within the rickhouse, would subtly influence the aging spirit. They patiently waited, knowing that rushing the process would compromise the quality they were striving for.

Finally, the moment arrived. After more than four years of patient maturation, their Single Malt Rye whiskey had reached its peak. The taste profile they had envisioned – that perfect balance of rye spice, nuanced sweetness, and the subtle complexities imparted by the oak – had been achieved. It was a testament to their initial vision, their meticulous recipe, and the unwavering patience they had exercised.

Bottling their first batch of Anderson & Link Single Malt Rye whiskey was more than just a step in production; it was the culmination of years of a unique connection, a shared passion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Each bottle represents not just a fine spirit, but the embodiment of their journey.

Anderson & Link Whiskey Company is more than just a name on a label. It represents the enduring bond between Curtis and Jon, a connection that began in an unexpected moment – a chance meeting between a soldier and a young boy – and was rekindled by a shared appreciation for exceptional whiskey. It’s a testament to the idea that even seemingly fleeting encounters can lay the groundwork for lasting friendships and remarkable achievements.

When you pour a glass of Anderson & Link Single Malt Rye, we invite you to savor not just the exquisite taste, but also the story behind it. It’s a story of two friends, an unlikely first meeting when one was just six years old, a shared dream, and the unwavering commitment to crafting a whiskey that we are truly proud to share with you. From a young boy’s encounter with a soldier to your glass, we hope you enjoy the journey as much as we have. Cheers.