Rapper Yelawolf partnered with Next Century Spirits to create Creek Water Whiskey, an American whiskey brand that launched in 2018. The collaboration brings together music and spirits in a unique way that appeals to fans of both industries.
Creek Water Whiskey is crafted using a bourbon mash of 21% rye, 4% malt, and 75% corn, bottled at 100 proof with flavors of spicy cinnamon and traditional oak. The brand has grown quickly since its debut, producing over 8,000 cases and expanding distribution to 23 states across America.
Brand History
Brand History and Formation
Creek Water Whiskey launched in June 2018 from the creative mind of rapper Yelawolf. The brand formed through a partnership between the Slumerican founder and Next Century Spirits.
Yelawolf, an American rapper, singer, songwriter, and fashion designer, teamed up with Next Century Spirits to develop Creek Water. The collaboration brought together music industry creativity with spirits production expertise.
Yelawolf’s influence extends beyond basic endorsement. He actively participates in product development and marketing decisions. The rapper has described his whiskey products as “a love letter to fans of my music, apparel, and whiskey.”
The brand reflects Yelawolf’s Southern roots and musical style.
Key Formation Details:
- Launch Date: June 2018
- Founding Partners: Yelawolf and Next Century Spirits
- Initial Focus: Breaking traditional whiskey brand barriers
The brand experienced rapid growth after its launch. Creek Water scaled quickly, producing more than 8,000 cases and distributing to 23 states across the United States within its first few years.
In 2021, the company announced a leadership change. Anthony Moniello became the new CEO to lead the brand’s strategic direction. Moniello previously led Next Century Spirits from Raleigh, North Carolina.
The whiskey is carefully crafted in Durham, North Carolina. Creek Water uses a bourbon mash bill of 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malt for its flagship American whiskey.
The brand positioned itself as breaking through traditional barriers through grassroots and lifestyle marketing approaches that connect with consumers who value authenticity and grit.
Tasting Notes and Characteristics
Creek Water Whiskey offers distinct flavor profiles across its product line, with the standard American whiskey featuring bourbon mash characteristics and the premium Sometimes Y expression delivering complex 18-year-aged rye notes. The brand’s expressions showcase careful craftsmanship in both aroma development and finish quality.
The Creek Water American Whiskey delivers a bourbon mash flavor with notes of slight char and spice. This standard expression maintains a balanced profile that reflects its 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% barley composition.
The premium Sometimes Y 18-year rye whiskey offers complex flavors including dried black cherries and cooked Georgia peaches. Additional notes of cracked black pepper and charred orange peel create depth on the palate.
