(West) Bottoms Up!
Raising a Glass to the West Bottoms Whiskey Company.
To most Kansas Citians, the resurgence of the West Bottoms District should come as no surprise. Historic, century-old buildings now house some of the most unique businesses in town and, with the hope of discovering a hidden gem around every corner, the appeal of the area is undeniable. And that’s precisely what drew me out to visit a charming whiskey bar that I’d heard incredible things about.
All photos by Weston Owen
West Bottoms Whiskey Company first opened its doors to the public in January of 2021. Alex Lindsey, founder and Master Distiller of West Bottoms Whiskey Co., and an incredibly mighty team of partners (and a solid group of close friends) have helped bring this drinking hole to life. While naturally lit, the warm glow of amber lighting bleeds into the gray-washed brick of this turn-of-the-century train tunnel. There’s intrigue and mystique behind the decor hanging from the walls and the mid-century modern furniture adds a familiar touch to an environment that feels plucked from prohibition. Upon first glance around the establishment, you’ll notice a recurring face on the walls, bottles, coasters and signage — Murdock, a steampunk savant who clearly knows more about whiskey than most of us ever will.
If I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a thousand times — ambiance makes or breaks an experience for me and this place is overflowing with it. From the moment you step foot into the establishment, it feels unique and rich with character. Whether it’s Alex greeting you at the entry, Danny welcoming you while mixing a drink or Murdock’s smug grin guiding your path, WBWC is unmistakably inviting. The space seats around 35 with plans of adding additional outdoor seating, both in front and behind the building. Yet even as folks were filing in, clambering for a delicious cocktail, it felt comfortable and unobtrusive.
With what once started out as a hobby, the creation of WBWC’s delicious liquid offering has been in development for more than a decade. Lindsey has painstakingly experimented with distilling methods, flavor profiles and ingredients to find the perfect balance for his offerings, especially his Kansas City Whiskey. Small-batched and barrel-aged, his whiskey is aromatic and worth breathing in before drinking down. It’s flavorful, rich and drinks like an enticing ‘day-to-day’ drinker.
Lindsey also introduced me to Hephaestus, his 10-gallon copper still that is a workhorse when it comes to special release production throughout the year. From American Malt, Wheat, Rye and various other limited runs, this small-but-mighty still creates some delicious spirits (FYI, Hephaestus is the Greek God of Fire and Metal). If everything goes according to plan, he’ll soon add a 40-gallon still that would increase production and the promise of special, in-house quarterly releases.
While glancing over the crumpled, time-tested menu, it’s apparent that each whiskey-based drink is unique and thoughtfully crafted. I’m a whiskey guy and “The BEST Old Fashioned in Kansas City'' sincerely lives up to its name — it was difficult for me to recall another old fashioned in town that drank so smoothly. The “Bottoms Boulevardia” is a whiskey/spritz/amaro/bitters mix and, for many, a house favorite. A classic Horsefeather packs a familiar punch and the Whiskey Waker — a whiskey, cold brew and chocolate coffee concoction — is incredibly easy to drink. The most interesting drink on the menu, both in spirit mixture and naming mechanism, is a whiskey/Prosecco combination that forms the “Derriere Telegram,” a delightfully clever way of naming the booty call. It absolutely works but don’t just take my word for it, try one for yourself.
To immerse yourself even more within this whiskey joint’s lore, head upstairs and gaze upon the statuesque photographs of Bradwick Lindsey and his son, Chadwick — but don’t dare ask about how they met their untimely and unfortunate demise. If you must use the facilities, beware the fabled ghost of Murdock and, if you’re of the lucky few, behold the presence of Purrdock as he makes his nightly rounds around the West Bottoms.
West Bottoms Whiskey Company encapsulates a beautiful snapshot of all the district has to offer: a charming building, a storied history and a magical allure that many are beginning to discover for themselves. I promise that if you set out with a feeling of intrigue, you’ll leave with a sense of wonder. So gather your friends, raise a glass and toast to one of my new favorite locations in town. Bottoms up!
