Duelers Dark Double Oaked is deep, spiced, and structured, aged in French Oak, then American Oak, then returned to French Oak. Aromas of cinnamon, baking spice, and toasted wood give way to layered notes of dried fig and raisin with a hint of espresso. The finish is medium-length and slightly dry, with lingering warm spice.
Duelers Midnight is bold and rich, a whiskey-lover’s expression bottled at barrel proof, lightly aged in French Oak and finished in American Oak. Deep caramel and toasted oak aromas lead into dark chocolate, warm baking spices like cinnamon and clove, and a hint of orange peel. The finish is long and warming, with lingering black pepper, cocoa bitterness, and a coating mouthfeel made for slow sipping.
Duelers Blanco is light, crisp, and peppery with fresh minerality. It opens clean and earthy with distinct mineral notes, then moves into subtle vegetal tones like green pepper and fresh herbs, lifted by a touch of citrus zest. The finish is long and bright, with black pepper, faint agave sweetness, and a lively, tingly mouthfeel.
Duelers Dark delivers a balanced sweet-and-spice profile, lightly aged in French Oak and finished in American Oak. Bright vanilla and candied citrus peel lead into soft caramel, lightly toasted oak, and a touch of baking spice. It finishes short and dry with black pepper, a slight tingle, and a clean exit.
Phil Lear is a well-known painter based in Colorado Springs, known for his skillful figurative and portrait work, as well as his evocative landscapes. His paintings often have a classical realism influence, with a strong focus on light, shadow, and composition.
Lear’s work has been featured in galleries and exhibitions throughout Colorado, and he is recognized for his ability to capture depth and emotion in his subjects.
Phil collaborated with Blackhat to create artwork for their Duelers labels. In a recent interview, Lear discussed how his passion for painting and history converged in this project. The distillery has shared parts of this interview on their Instagram account, providing insights into Lear’s creative process and the inspiration behind the label designs.