Lost Lantern, an independent bottler known for spotlighting unique and exceptional American whiskey producers, has once again delivered a compelling expression with Farmers’ Fields, a blend of three grain-to-glass distilleries from different parts of the country.
Founded in 2018 by Nora Ganley-Roper and Adam Polonski, Lost Lantern is an independent bottler of American whiskey, a model more common in Scotland but still rare in the U.S.
The duo met while working in the spirits industry—Nora at Astor Wines in New York and Adam as a whiskey writer for Whisky Advocate. Together, they traveled across the country visiting craft distilleries, realizing just how many exceptional small producers weren’t getting national attention. Their mission? To champion those producers through carefully curated single barrels and expertly crafted blends.
Known for their transparency and commitment to craft, Lost Lantern doesn’t distill their own spirits — instead, they partner with standout distilleries to showcase local influence, distilling philosophies, and regional character. Farmers’ Fields is a testament to their mission, bringing together distinct voices in American whiskey into a harmonious chorus of flavor.
The Distilleries Behind the Blend
Far North Spirits (Minnesota):
This grain-to-glass distillery in Hallock, Minnesota, is known for its use of heirloom grains grown on its family farm. Their contribution to Farmers’ Fields is a 5-year-old bourbon with a mashbill of 60% heirloom corn, 30% hazlet rye, and 10% malted barley, aged in 53-gallon Black Swan Cooperage barrels with a Char 3. Far North’s spicy rye and earthy grain quality lend complexity to the blend.
Frey Ranch (Nevada):
Based in Fallon, Nevada, Frey Ranch grows 100% of its grains on its own farm and is known for its bold, full-bodied bourbons. Their contribution is a 6-year-old bourbon with a mashbill of 67% corn, 12% malted barley, 11% rye, and 10% wheat, aged in barrels from Barrel 53 Cooperage (Char 4 staves, Char 3 heads). Frey Ranch adds richness and a rounded, almost creamy depth.
Whiskey Acres (Illinois):
Located in DeKalb, Illinois, Whiskey Acres also takes pride in growing its own grain, producing expressive, terroir-driven whiskey. Their 6-year-old bourbon is made with 75% Yellow Dent corn, 15% wheat, and 10% malted barley, aged in Kelvin Cooperage Char 3 barrels. Their sweeter, softer profile helps bind the blend with a warm, mellow finish.
The retail price is $100 and alcohol by volume is typically 50 to 60%. The bottle we have is 59% abv.
The bottle is elegantly designed—tall, slender, and visually striking. The bourbon inside reveals a deep, rich amber hue, perfectly capturing the classic color of a well-crafted traditional blend.
The nose opens with toasted cornbread, honeycomb, and sweet orchard fruit. A subtle grainy earthiness from Far North’s heirloom corn peeks through, followed by cinnamon, orange peel, and a faint floral note.
Farmers’ Fields hits the palate with a creamy mouthfeel and a balance of spice and sweetness. Notes of brown butter, caramel, and sweet corn are lifted by cracked black pepper and baking spices. Frey Ranch’s layered grain bill lends a soft, chewy texture, while the whiskey from Far North adds backbone and rye-driven spice. Whiskey Acres ties it together with mellow wheat and toasted oak.
Long and satisfying, the finish transitions from nutty caramel to dry oak and a lingering rye warmth. There’s a grain-forward depth that reminds you this is a blend of farm-grown bourbons — honest, bold, and beautifully unpolished in the best way.
Lost Lantern Farmers’ Fields is a standout blend that celebrates America’s farming heritage and the grain-to-glass movement in whiskey. It’s both rustic and refined — a tribute to local flavor, craftsmanship, and collaboration. Each component brings something distinctive to the glass, but together, they create a seamless expression that feels greater than the sum of its parts.
This bottle is great for bourbon lovers who value transparency, bold grain character, and the artistry of blending. This is a limited release, as with most Lost Lantern offerings, this won’t last long on shelves. If you find it, don’t hesitate.
Cheers!
This bottle rates 5 out of 5 barrels.
