Our Story
Eagles Nest Spirits isn't just about exceptional whiskey; it's a testament to friendship, shared passions, and a deep respect for the past. At the heart of this story are two unique individuals: Curtis Link and Jon Anderson, each bringing their own rich experiences to the table to create a truly unique 100% single malt rye whiskey.
Curtis's journey is one marked by a lifelong commitment to service and a thirst for knowledge. A retired Army veteran with a background in military intelligence, he embodies the values of discipline, precision, and unwavering dedication. These qualities, honed during his years of service, have become the cornerstone of his approach to whiskey-making.
But Curtis's commitment to excellence extends beyond his military career. He graduated with honors from Grand Canyon University with a Bachelor's degree in Business Management, demonstrating his dedication to lifelong learning. His pursuit of knowledge led him to the prestigious Whiskey University, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Craft Whiskey, further solidifying his passion and expertise in the field.
Growing up in rural Oregon instilled in Curtis a deep appreciation for community and the importance of giving back. This commitment has manifested in his tireless support of veterans, a cause close to his heart. He's a pillar of his local community, always ready to lend a hand and support those around him. His unwavering commitment to others has even earned him the prestigious honor of being named a Kentucky Colonel, a testament to his impactful contributions.
Curtis is more than just a veteran, scholar, and community leader; he's a passionate student of history, particularly captivated by the American Revolution and the Whiskey Rebellion. This fascination, combined with his desire to create a lasting legacy, ignited his passion for bringing a unique whiskey to life.
Jon's path to Eagles Nest Spirits winds through the heart of Texas, where he grew up with a deep appreciation for history and a love for exploring the world. Always fascinated by the past, he sees the stories and traditions woven into the fabric of every place he visits. This love of history fuels his passion for creating something authentic and meaningful, a desire that found its perfect expression in the world of whiskey.
A surveyor by trade, Jon possesses a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the land. His work with drones and 3D lidar mapping processes allows him to see the world from a unique perspective, appreciating the intricate details that often go unnoticed. This perspective informs his approach to whiskey-making, where he values precision and the subtle nuances that contribute to a truly exceptional spirit.
The story of Eagles Nest Spirits truly began when Curtis and Jon's paths crossed. Their shared love of whiskey, history, and the pursuit of excellence forged an immediate bond. They were drawn to the bold, rebellious spirit of early American rye whiskey, a style that had largely faded into the background of the modern whiskey world.
Together, they envisioned a whiskey that would honor this legacy, crafting authentic rye whiskey with uncompromising quality and a nod to the past. They knew that to achieve their vision, they needed to find the perfect partner to distill their 100% single malt rye whiskey. They found that partner in North Carolina, trusting their expertise to bring their dream to life.
But their vision extended beyond just distilling exceptional whiskey. They believed that the unique aging process in Colorado, with its high altitude and dry climate, was crucial to creating a truly distinctive flavor profile. That's why they age their whiskey for 4-7 years in Longmont, Colorado, allowing the spirit to mature and develop its full potential in the embrace of the Rocky Mountains.
Eagles Nest Spirits: Where Passion and History Converge
With their combined experience, dedication, and shared vision, Curtis and Jon brought Eagles Nest Spirits to life. Their commitment to craft and community shines through in every bottle. They meticulously source the finest grains, utilize pure Rocky Mountain water, and employ time-honored techniques to produce whiskey that is both bold and refined.
Eagles Nest Spirits is more than just a brand; it's a testament to the power of friendship, dedication, and a shared dream. It's a reminder that the best things in life – like a truly exceptional whiskey – take time, patience, and the perfect environment to mature.
Curtis and Jon's story is an inspiration, a reminder that passion, dedication, and a shared vision can create something truly extraordinary. So, the next time you raise a glass of Eagles Nest Spirits whiskey, remember the story of these two remarkable individuals and the legacy they are building, one bottle at a time.
A little bit about the founders
Curtis Link was born and raised in rural Oregon, Curtis Link developed a strong work ethic and a deep connection to nature at an early age. Growing up in a tight-knit community, he learned the importance of self-reliance and supporting those around him. At 18, he felt a calling to serve his country and enlisted in the Army, where he embarked on a distinguished military career that would shape his character and outlook on life.After years of service,
Curtis pursued higher education, earning a business degree from Grand Canyon University in 2016. His studies sharpened his leadership skills and prepared him for the next chapter of his life. A passionate advocate for veterans, Curtis dedicates much of his time to volunteering with several veteran organizations, working tirelessly to support those who have served and to foster a sense of community among fellow veterans.Curtis's journey reflects his unwavering commitment to service, both in and out of uniform. His leadership, combined with his deep-rooted values, has laid the foundation for his ventures, including the launch of Eagles
Nest Spirits, where he channels his passion for whiskey and his dedication to uplifting others.
Jon Anderson grew up in the bustling city of Houston, Texas, where his love for history began at an early age. A self-proclaimed history buff, he immersed himself in the stories of the past throughout his school years and beyond. This passion for understanding how events shaped the world drove his curiosity and sharpened his analytical mind.After completing his education, Jon embarked on a career that took him across the U.S., working in the oil and gas industry.
His extensive travels exposed him to diverse landscapes and industries, reinforcing his appreciation for both history and technology. Always one to embrace innovation, Jon earned his drone pilot's license, specializing in 3D LIDAR mapping and surveying. This skill added a new dimension to his expertise, allowing him to blend precision technology with hands-on fieldwork.Jon's journey through history and industry reflects a deep curiosity and commitment to mastery, values he brings to all his endeavors. His background in exploration and precision, coupled with his lifelong interest in history, now plays a key role in his partnership with Curtis Link at Eagles Nest Spirits, where they are working to revive the rich legacy of rye whiskey.
