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Shortbarrel Afterswarm II (Meadowfoam)

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Distiller's Notes

WHAT IS AFTERSWARM II?

A DIFFERENT KIND OF FINISHING

Afterswarm is built on a simple idea:
condition the barrel first—then let the whiskey do the work.

We introduce raw honey directly into Kelvin barrels, allowing it to soak into the oak staves. Once removed, the rye enters those honey-conditioned barrels for extended maturation.

No additives.
No sweetening.
Just structural influence from the wood itself.

The result is not a flavored whiskey—it’s a whiskey reshaped by what the barrel has become.

THE KEY DIFFERENCE

WHAT MAKES THESE TWO RELEASES DIFFERENT?

Both Afterswarm releases start the same way:

  • 95/5 rye base
  • Blend of mature rye whiskeys
  • Finished in honey-conditioned Kelvin barrels
  • Aged in Atlanta for final maturation

The only difference: the honey used to condition the barrel.

GEORGIA WILDFLOWER

AFTERSWARM: GEORGIA WILDFLOWER

Bright. Floral. Classic.

Proof: 110.6

Finished in barrels conditioned with Georgia wildflower honey, this release leans into the natural tension between rye spice and aromatic lift.

Expect a whiskey where:

  • Rye spice leads
  • Honey enhances—not dominates
  • The profile stays vibrant and structured

This is Afterswarm in its most traditional form—balanced, expressive, and rooted in place.

Available at select retailers across five states, GA, FL, KY, TN, TX

MEADOWFOAM

AFTERSWARM II: MEADOWFOAM

Richer. Deeper. Completely different.

Proof: 108.6

Finished in barrels conditioned with rare Meadowfoam honey from Oregon’s Willamette Valley, this release pushes the Afterswarm concept further.

Meadowfoam honey is known for its naturally high vanillin content and marshmallow-like character, which translates directly into the whiskey. 

After nearly 12 months in honey-conditioned barrels, the result is:

  • A broader, more textured mid-palate
  • Layers of vanilla, honey butter, and toasted sweetness
  • A softened—but still present—rye spice backbone

Bottled non-chill filtered at 108.6 proof, this is a more indulgent, dessert-leaning expression of Afterswarm. 

Was available online and at the distillery.

WHY PEOPLE MIX THEM UP

We get it—they look similar, and they’re built the same way.

Here’s the simplest way to think about it:

  • Same whiskey process → Different honey → Different outcome
  • Wildflower = brighter + spice forward
  • Meadowfoam = richer + sweeter profile
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The company was named Shortbarrel because that is the profile the founders strive to achieve with every bottle – a spirit so compelling, from the moment it touches your lips through to the long finish, that you can’t wait to have another sip to uncover the other flavors that lie within.

Patrick, Adam & Clinton - Founders

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