There’s no shortage of celebrity spirits out there, and the number seems to get bigger every day. Most are not really worth mentioning. FEW Spirits, based just outside of Chicago, seems to have found a sweet spot in partnerships with musicians, however, and its latest release with Smashing Pumpkins (conveniently timed to the band’s latest album, Aghori Mhori Mei, and North American tour) is no different.
Smashing Pumpkins Bourbon was made with input from frontman Billy Corgan. As fans probably know, Corgan has been sober for decades (he told The Guardian the decision was made in an attempt to grow up for his kids rather than due to any addiction or abuse issues). Sobriety apparently has no impact on collaborating on a tasty whiskey.
It’s far from the first time FEW has tapped into musical inspiration. Other collaborations between bands and the distillery include Alice In Chains (a bourbon finished in ex tequila barrels), Black Rebel Motorcycle Club (the Motor Oil release that’s a blend of mesquite smoked whiskey, bourbon aged in ex-vermouth barrels, and bourbon aged in ex-rum barrels), and Flaming Lips (a high rye whiskey using 70% of the grains from 150 miles of the Illinois distillery).
Like those other releases, FEW added a special touch distinct to Corgan to make the spirit pop.
ABV: 46.5%
Price: $55.99
Where it’s available: Through FEW’s site and Total Wine
