Fritz Maytag and Hotaling (formerly Anchor) have been synonymous with quality craft production since 1965, when he purchased and revived Anchor Brewing. In 1993, ever the entrepreneur, Fritz saw a need to revive rye whiskey—the kind made before prohibition that hadn’t been produced in the U.S. for decades. He founded Anchor Distilling (AKA Hotaling as of 2017) and never looked back. The distillery created and released America’s first craft whiskey (Old Potrero) and put American craft gin on the map with Junipero. Now, in partnership with one of California’s oldest brandy producing families, Hotaling is bringing us an epic apple brandy at a steal of a price. Produced from 100% California grown apples and aged for 21 years in French oak barrels, this brandy is a true rarity. Less than 30 barrels of this precious nectar exist. Bottled at 44% ABV, it is loaded with luscious caramel apples, warm apple pie notes on the nose, and a very smooth and refined finish. It is safe to say that this piece of California distilling history is a unique item for collectors and drinkers alike.