FEW Spirits, a craft distillery based in Evanston, Illinois, collaborated with the iconic rock band The Smashing Pumpkins and Madame Zuzu’s, a tea shop co-owned by the band's frontman Billy Corgan, to create a unique bourbon: FEW Spirits Smashing Pumpkins Straight Bourbon Whiskey with Madame Zuzu’s Midnight Rose Tea. This collaboration is rooted in a shared local connection and a passion for crafting unique products, with Billy Corgan's involvement adding a personal and creative touch.
The bourbon is infused with Madame Zuzu’s Midnight Rose Tea, introducing floral and herbal notes to the whiskey. This results in a complex flavor profile that combines the rich, oaky characteristics of straight bourbon with the subtle, aromatic qualities of the tea. The bourbon is crafted using traditional methods and aged to perfection, with the tea infusion carefully balanced to ensure the flavors complement rather than overpower the whiskey.
Tasting notes reveal hints of rose petals, vanilla, and caramel on the nose. The palate offers a harmonious blend of sweet and spicy bourbon flavors with floral and slightly tannic undertones from the tea, leading to a smooth and lingering finish with an interesting twist from the tea’s herbal notes.
The bottle design reflects the collaborative nature of the product, often featuring elements that highlight The Smashing Pumpkins' aesthetic and the artisanal quality of FEW Spirits. As a special release, this bourbon is available in limited quantities and is sought after by collectors and fans of both The Smashing Pumpkins and unique spirits.