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Buffalo Trace Distillery’s 26th Bottle in its Experimental Collection

February 16, 2025 By Dustin Scoggins

Buffalo Trace Distillery is releasing the 26th bottle in its ongoing Experimental Collection. And this one has a flavor unlike any of its bourbons. The Experimental Collection: Spirits Distilled from Grain and Hops” has a unique hoppiness that fans of whiskey and beer might enjoy, according to the announcement.

Master distiller Harlen Wheatley made the spirit by infusing raw distillate for 30 minutes with two different hops — Saaz noble hops, a Czechoslovakian variety commonly found in bohemian pilsners, and Zythos, an American hop with tropical and subtle herbal notes, according to the news release.

“Hoppy beers are a playground for brewers; there are many techniques used to capture different flavors. It inspired us to play around with this essential beer ingredient as well,” Wheatley said. “Thanks to the eleven-plus years of aging, the hop aroma and hop flavors are evident while providing a balanced bitterness that blends well with the spirit’s oaky whiskey character.”

The release is 90-proof, with a suggested retail price of $46.99. It’s available in limited quantities on select days at the Buffalo Trace Distillery Gift Shop beginning in late January.

According to the tasting notes, the spirit has citrus and herbal notes reminiscent of beer, with creamy vanilla and seasoned oak undertones on the nose. On the palate, it’s citrus with pronounced lemon and orange zest, fresh herbal and robust oak, with a clean, refreshing finish.

About Buffalo Trace Distillery:

Buffalo Trace began the Experimental Collection more than 20 years ago. The distillery has more than 30,000 barrels of experimental whiskeys aging in its warehouses, each with unique characteristics and changes to the mash bill, type of wood, barrel toast and more. Not every one makes it to the bottling stage and new additions are released periodically and on a limited basis.

For more information please visit https://www.buffalotracedistillery.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoqI7DCd05-aMx6yTVBWdPkw0rFfZfzIYdUHywzZTRxPmV35OZHs

Boann Distillery Releases its First Pot Still Whiskeys in U.S.

February 16, 2025 By Dustin Scoggins

Family-owned Boann Distillery announced the release of its first Single Pot Still Irish Whiskeys in the U.S. The three core expressions – Marsala, Madeira, and Pedro Ximénez – will be available in select states, including CA, FL, IN, MN, NE, ND, NY, SD, TX, and WI.

These releases join Boann’s celebrated portfolio of spirits, including Silks Irish Dry Gin and The Whistler Irish Whiskey. Each whiskey (47% ABV | SRP $69/700 ml) is crafted with award-winning Single Pot Still spirit and aged in carefully selected casks to deliver unique and distinct flavor profiles.

The new expressions honor the 160-year tradition of Single Pot Still whiskey distillation in the heart of Ireland’s Boyne Valley. Boann’s Managing Director and Founder, Pat Cooney, shared the vision behind the release: “This is the beginning of a journey to bring Irish whiskey back to its rightful place as a global leader. Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey is uniquely Irish, and we’re reviving the heritage of Ireland’s lost distilleries while uniting traditional methods with modern innovation.”

The three expressions are presented in bespoke bottles designed to reflect the essence of grain, water, and wood. Each bottle features a textured surface that evokes images of barley blowing in the wind, the bark of oak trees, or the flames used to char the casks.

Key highlights of the new expressions include:

Marsala Cask Finish

Initially matured for three years in heavily charred ex-bourbon barrels sourced from Brown-Forman distilleries in Kentucky, followed by finishing in French oak Superiore and Fine Marsala casks from Cantine deVinci in Sicily.

Madeira Cask Finish

After initial aging in charred ex-bourbon barrels, this expression is finished in premium vintage Madeira casks sourced from Justino’s, a renowned Madeira house.

Pedro Ximénez Cask Finish

Matured for 3.5 years in Oloroso Sherry hogsheads from Bodegas Garvey in Spain, then finished in rare vintage PX Solera Chestnut and Oak casks from Malaga.

“This has always been our dream—to distill our own Irish whiskey in the heart of the Boyne Valley,” Cooney said. “These whiskeys carry the character and provenance of the land, writing a new chapter in the story of Single Pot Still Irish Whiskey.”

About Boann Distillery

Boann Distillery is a family owned, state-of-the-art distillery located on the edge of the historic town of Drogheda, County Meath, in the heart of the Boyne Valley of Ireland. Boann Distillery produces a range of triple-distilled Irish Single Malt and Irish Single Pot Still whiskey from three handmade bespoke copper pot stills.

For more information, visit https://www.boanndistillery.ie/.

Big Easy Whiskey: New Orleans’ Premium Botanical-Infused American Whiskey

February 11, 2025 By Dow Scoggins

NEW ORLEANS – New Orleans-based Big Easy Spirits Company is redefining the flavored whiskey category with its flagship Big Easy Whiskey, a premium 5-year-old straight whiskey that puts authentic whiskey flavor front and center. Launched in early 2025 in its hometown of New Orleans, this innovative infused American whiskey starts with 100% straight whiskey distilled in Kentucky and Indiana from a traditional bourbon mash bill (81% corn, 15% rye, 4% malted barley). Aged for five years in used bourbon barrels for a smooth, rounded profile, it’s then expertly infused with over two dozen natural herbs, spices, botanicals, and fruits by Master Blender Kieran Walsh. The result is a bold yet approachable botanical-infused whiskey that enhances the spirit’s rich character without overpowering it – perfect for enthusiasts searching for high-quality flavored whiskey options.

This whiskey (86 proof, 43% ABV, $34.99 SRP for 750mL) shines as an everyday sipper, especially over ice where flavors evolve with each melt. Tasting notes feature toasty American whiskey aromas transitioning to warm baking spices like vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, with complex Amaro-like herbal layers of cedar and lemon balm on the palate. Versatile for cocktails honoring New Orleans’ legendary mixology, it adds depth to simple serves like “Easy Over Ice” or creative ones like “Easy Like Sunday Morning.” Founded by industry veterans and New Orleans natives, crafted this spirit to be neither pretentious nor gimmicky – bold and boozy, bitter and sweet, embodying the Big Easy’s laid-back soul. Now available online with shipping to 46 states and in select retailers, this New Orleans whiskey is ideal for holiday entertaining or casual sipping. Bourbon Outfitter

About Big Easy Spirits Company
Big Easy Whiskey was launched in New Orleans in early 2025, captures the vibrant, laid-back essence of the Crescent City in every bottle. Founded by distilled spirits industry veterans and New Orleans natives, the brand aims to deliver a premium, approachable infused whiskey that’s neither pretentious nor gimmicky. Bold and boozy yet bitter and sweet, this whiskey embodies the entrepreneurial spirit and rich cocktail heritage of New Orleans, offering an everyday sipper that’s perfect for casual moments or sophisticated gatherings. Now available across 46 states, this innovative American whiskey redefines the flavored category with authentic quality and local inspiration.

How did New Orleans get the name, The Big Easy?
The nickname “The Big Easy” for New Orleans reflects the city’s renowned laid-back, easygoing lifestyle, vibrant jazz culture, and relaxed pace compared to faster-paced places like New York City (known as “The Big Apple”). While the exact origin is debated with several theories, the most widely accepted account traces its popularization to the 1970s.

New Orleans gossip columnist Betty Guillaud (sometimes spelled Guillot or similar) used the phrase in her newspaper columns to highlight the city’s carefree atmosphere in contrast to New York’s hustle. This usage caught on, especially after author James Conaway titled his 1970 crime novel The Big Easy (inspired by his time as a police reporter in the city, where he overheard the phrase), and the 1987 film adaptation starring Dennis Quaid further cemented it in popular culture.

Earlier theories include references to a early 20th-century dance hall called “The Big Easy Hall” in Gretna (across the river from New Orleans), where jazz pioneer Buddy Bolden performed, or slang among musicians describing how it was relatively “easy” to find gigs and make a living in the city’s thriving jazz scene compared to elsewhere. Other suggestions point to the city’s lenient attitude toward alcohol during Prohibition or its overall low-key vibe. Though locals rarely use “The Big Easy” themselves (preferring “New Orleans” or “NOLA”), the nickname endures as a celebration of the city’s unique charm.

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Rabbit Hole Distillery Teams Up With Jay Ellis To Host Creative Spirit Challenge For Aspiring Filmmakers

February 11, 2025 By Dow Scoggins

LOUISVILLE, Kentucky – Rabbit Hole Distillery has partnered with acclaimed actor and producer Jay Ellis, known for his roles in Top Gun: Maverick and Insecure. This collaboration marks a key moment in the brand’s commitment to innovation and creativity in both whiskey and film. As part of the partnership, Rabbit Hole will launch an exclusive contest for aspiring filmmakers alongside a limited-edition distillery series whiskey release.

As the Official Bourbon of the Sundance Film Festival, Rabbit Hole Distillery proudly champions bold, independent voices, celebrating creativity and storytelling from every walk of life. To bring this mission to life, Rabbit Hole has partnered with Ellis to launch The Creative Spirit Challenge. Aspiring filmmakers are invited to submit a short video sharing their story, bold ideas and dreams of becoming a filmmaker. The grand prize winner will receive a Canon EOS R5 C camera and a one-on-one mentoring session with Ellis. Additionally, three runners-up will receive Canon cameras to fuel their creative journey.

“Something very important to me, and the reason I launched my production company Black Bar Mitzvah, is to help aspiring filmmakers and creatives tell their stories. Partnering with Rabbit Hole and The Creative Spirit Challenge is an exciting opportunity to inspire and empower the next generation of filmmakers to chase their dreams and elevate their craft. I can’t wait to see the incredible talent and stories that will emerge from this initiative.”

In addition to the contest, Rabbit Hole Distillery and Ellis are also collaborating on a limited-edition whiskey release, slated for this spring. The release will embody the shared values of artistry and craftsmanship that form the foundation of Rabbit Hole’s whiskey-making process and Ellis’ approach to his films and TV shows. Available exclusively at Rabbit Hole Distillery in Louisville, each bottle in this special limited series will honor the creative spirit that defines both industries.

“At Rabbit Hole, innovation and creativity are at the heart of everything we do,” said Kaveh Zamanian, Rabbit Hole Founder and Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame Whiskey Maker. “Jay Ellis embodies the bold vision and artistry we admire in film, just as we strive to craft each bottle with unparalleled originality and excellence. Together, this partnership will inspire creativity, nurture emerging talent, and push the boundaries of artistry in both whiskey and film.”

To enter the Creative Spirit Challenge, and for full contest rules, visit www.RabbitHoleDistillery.com/creativespiritchallenge.

No purchase necessary. Must be a legal resident of (50) U.S. or D.C., age 21+. Registration ends 3/31/2025. See official rules at www.RabbitHoleDistillery.com/creativespiritchallenge. Odds of winning based upon number of eligible entries received and decisions of judges. No alcoholic beverage is part of any prize award. Void wherever prohibited. Sponsor: Pernod Ricard, 250 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10177.

To keep up with Jay Ellis, follow him on Instagram @jayrellis.

For more information about Rabbit Hole Distillery, visit www.RabbitHoleDistillery.com and follow along on social media @rabbithole.

ABOUT RABBIT HOLE DISTILLERY
Rabbit Hole was born to blow the cobwebs off the American whiskey category and pierce through the conformity that had kept it stuck in the 19th century. Rabbit Hole’s Founder and Whiskey Maker, Kaveh Zamanian, left a 20+ year career as a clinical psychologist to pursue his long-standing passion for fine spirits. With a mission to transform the ordinary into the extraordinary, he set course to develop one-of-a-kind expressions of American whiskey. Through its signature core offerings – Cavehill Four Grain Triple Malt Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Boxergrail Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, Dareringer Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey Finished in PX Sherry Casks, and Heigold High Rye Double Malt Kentucky Straight Bourbon – along with its innovative Founder’s Collection series, stands as the best example of innovation and craft distillation in the country. This distinction is highlighted by its use of truly singular mash bills, signature malted grains, and custom-made, hand-selected, toasted & charred barrels. The state-of-the art distillery is a cathedral to the art and science of whiskey making and is located in the Nulu neighborhood in the heart of downtown Louisville. Designed as a true craft distillery designed to scale, it produces 27,000 barrels every year. Since opening in 2018, it has been heralded as the “Architectural Icon” of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail and was recently named “World’s Leading Bourbon Distillery Tour” by the World Travel Awards. In 2022, Kaveh was inducted into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame’s 20th anniversary class, cementing his place among industry pioneers and visionaries. For more information, visit www.RabbitHoleDistillery.com.

ABOUT PERNOD RICARD USA®
Pernod Ricard USA is the premium spirits and wine company in the U.S., and the largest subsidiary of Paris, France-based Pernod Ricard SA., the world’s second largest spirits and wine company. Pernod Ricard employs approximately 19,000 people worldwide, is listed on Euronext (Ticker: RI) and is part of the CAC 40 index. The company’s leading spirits include such prestigious brands as Absolut Vodka, Avión Tequila, Chivas Regal Scotch Whisky, The Glenlivet Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Jameson Irish Whiskey, Kahlúa Liqueur, Malibu, Martell Cognac, Olmeca Altos Tequila, Beefeater Gin, Del Maguey Single Village Mezcal, Código Tequila, Monkey 47 Gin, Seagram’s Extra Dry Gin, Malfy Gin, Hiram Walker Liqueurs, Midleton Irish Whiskey, Redbreast Irish Whiskey, Aberlour Single Malt Scotch Whisky, Lillet, Jefferson’s Bourbon, TX Whiskey, Skrewball Whiskey, Smooth Ambler Whiskey, Rabbit Hole Whiskey, Pernod and Ricard; such superior wines as Jacob’s Creek, Kenwood Vineyards, Campo Viejo, Brancott Estate and Sainte Marguerite en Provence rosé.; and such exquisite champagnes and sparkling wines Perrier-Jouët Champagne, G.H. Mumm Champagne, Mumm Napa.

Pernod Ricard USA is headquartered in New York, New York, and has more than 1,000 employees across the country. As “creators of conviviality,” we are committed to sustainable and responsible business practices in service of our customers, consumers, employees and the planet. Pernod Ricard USA urges all adults to consume its products responsibly and has an active program to promote responsible drinking. For more information, visit: www.pernod-ricard-usa.com.

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The Glenlivet Adds Surprisingly Old Whisky to Permanent Collection

January 29, 2025 By Dustin Scoggins

Last year, The Glenlivet turned 200 years old. To celebrate, the iconic Speyside brand rolled out a variety of new releases, including its oldest ever bottling. But even with its bicentennial now in the rearview, the Pernod Ricard-owned whisky maker isn’t stepping away from age and innovation. Instead, it’s adding those qualities to its permanent portfolio with newly unveiled The Glenlivet 40-Year-Old.

Bottled at a higher-than-expected cask strength of 46.9 percent ABV, The Glenlivet 40-Year-Old was finished in custom casks from Jerez, Spain. Each cask was seasoned with a bespoke blend of oloroso and Pedro Ximénez sherries, giving the whisky stored inside a unique depth and fruitiness.

On the nose, the Scotch whisky offers aromas of strawberry jam, raisins, dark cherries, cinnamon, and nutmeg alongside a hint of toasted oak. The palate offers layers of plums, charred orange, dark chocolate, and licorice to go along with the usual apple notes found in Speyside drams. The finish is long and sweet, filled with warming spices and a lasting hint of sweetness.

The brand made sure to take things a step further when designing the packaging as well, which isn’t the usual teal they use for other releases. Instead, they opted to present the single malt in a copper-colored container that’s supposed to remind imbibers of the copper stills used to make the Scotch. The bottle, meanwhile, is elegant and straightforward with gold lettering.

Credit: Christopher Friedmann

For more information please visit https://www.mensjournal.com/food-drink/the-glenlivet-40-scotch-whisky

2XO Whiskey Releases Second Vintage of Gem of Kentucky

January 29, 2025 By Dustin Scoggins

Photo Credit: 2XO Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Renowned American whiskey blender Dixon Dedman proudly presents the second vintage of Gem of Kentucky, from his award winning 2XO (“Two Times Oak”) brand. Gem of Kentucky is the only double barreled, single barrel Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey on the market, available just in time for the holidays in its stunning black bottle. Dixon exclusively selected 80 single barrels from stocks of his 35% high rye bourbon mash bill that spent up to a year in new charred oak barrels before bottling.

For this year’s release, Dixon partnered with Lexington, Kentucky based glass artist Travis Adams of Trifecta Design Studio to create The Unmined Gem, a one-of-a-kind hand blown glass sculpture that captures the essence of 2XO’s latest Gem of Kentucky expression.

Each Gem of Kentucky barrel is unique and identified by the barrel number on the front label of each bottle. Some barrels are sweeter with notes of chocolate, cinnamon, and toasted marshmallow that flow into baking spices. Other barrels are more savory with notes of dark red fruits, nutmeg, and a black pepper spice.

About 2XO Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey:

2XO Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey was created by renowned American whiskey blender Dixon Dedman. Dixon grew up on the Kentucky whiskey trail infusing the learnings from industry legends with his culinary expertise from running his family’s business, the famed and James Beard award-winning Beaumont Inn. He was originally known for his high-proof, robust Kentucky Owl Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskey blends, a brand he relaunched in 2014 from his great-great grandfather, C.M. Dedman, after it went dark in 1916 around the time of Prohibition.

2XO, meaning Two Times Oak, refers to the blending process Dixon pioneered where every 2XO expression has additional oak exposure. The additional oak interaction builds the sweetness to balance out the spice from the rye in the mash bills and creates a unique combination of intense flavors, character, and complexity with each expression.

For more information please visit https://www.2xowhiskey.com

Rye January – What Rye Whiskey are you drinking to start off the year?

January 29, 2025 By Dow Scoggins

Rye January – What is it?
“Rye January” is a fun play on “Dry January,” where instead of abstaining from alcohol, people explore and appreciate rye whiskies throughout the month!

Rye whiskey is known for its spicier and more robust flavor compared to bourbon, thanks to its mash bill containing at least 51% rye grain. Rye January might involve:

Tasting different rye whiskies: From classic American rye to Canadian versions, there’s a lot of variety in flavor profiles to explore.

Making rye-based cocktails: Think Old Fashioneds, Manhattans, or Sazeracs—all fantastic with rye’s bold character.
Learning about rye whiskey production: Diving into how different distilleries approach rye, from grain sourcing to aging.

It’s a great way for whiskey enthusiasts to deepen their appreciation of rye’s unique qualities while staying warm in January!

Craft Rye Whiskies to Try
Classic & Approachable Craft Ryes
· New Riff Bottled-in-Bond Rye (KY) – 100% rye mash bill, bottled-in-bond for purity, with bold pepper and herbal notes.
· Redwood Empire Emerald Giant (CA) – A California craft rye that’s smooth, slightly sweet, and full of herbal complexity.
· Wigle Pennsylvania Rye (PA) – A true Pennsylvania-style rye with a dry, spicy profile and historic roots.

Unique Mash Bills & Experimental Ryes
· Journeyman Last Feather Rye (MI) – A wheated rye, meaning softer spice and more sweetness than traditional rye.
· Corsair Ryemageddon (TN) – Made with malted rye and chocolate rye for deep, rich flavors and smoky undertones.
· 291 Colorado Whiskey Small Batch Rye (CO) – Finished with aspen staves, adding a smoky, woody twist to classic rye spice.
· Dad’s Hat Pennsylvania Rye (PA) – Made in the Monongahela rye tradition with a heavier spice and earthy depth.

Barrel-Finished & High-Proof Ryes
· Sagamore Spirit Rye (Barrel Select or Cask Strength) (MD) – A Maryland-style rye with a more balanced, round profile.
· Stellum Rye (IN) – A high-proof, high-rye blend from Barrell Craft Spirits, with intense spice and complexity.
· Rabbit Hole Boxergrail Rye (KY) – A high-malt rye with a creamy texture and hints of toasted nuts.
· Balcones Texas Rye 100 Proof (TX) – Uses Texas-grown rye for a bold, slightly smoky profile with dark fruit notes.

Ultra-Premium & Small Batch Craft Ryes
· Willett Family Estate Rye (4-Year or Older) (KY) – Hard to find but worth it, this is a rich, high-proof rye with deep spice and caramel.
· Peerless Rye (KY) – Non-chill filtered, full-bodied, and uniquely aged for added complexity.
· Michter’s Barrel Strength Rye (KY) – A powerhouse rye with an ultra-smooth yet intense spicy-sweet balance.
· WhistlePig FarmStock Rye (VT) – A farm-to-bottle rye featuring WhistlePig’s own estate-grown grains.

Berkshire Mountain Distillers Launches Craft Brewers Whiskey Project With First Release

January 29, 2025 By Dow Scoggins

SHEFFIELD, Massachusetts – In February 2021, the award-winning maker of a select line of premier craft spirits, Berkshire Mountain Distillers (BMD), will release a trio of whiskeys in partnership with three brewers in the Northeast as part of their Craft Brewers Whiskey Project (CBWP). The five-year collaboration includes the distilling of a dozen different popular beers from a limited group of the country’s top craft brewers across five states. Each addition to the American whiskey collection is the product of a single-sourced craft brew distilled into a unique Berkshire Mountain Distillers whiskey.

“We were thrilled to collaborate with all of our brewer-partners and are excited these whiskeys are finally ready to be enjoyed by beer and whiskey aficionados alike,” said Chris Weld, founder and proprietor of Berkshire Mountain Distillers. “This fun collaboration has been an exceptional project-in-the-making involving 12 brewers, 12 beers, 12 whiskeys and 80 barrels of spirits — we’re eager to release each one to the public.”

Produced by the region’s first legal distillery since prohibition, each whiskey will be blended to 86 proof using BMD’s proprietary historic spring water in Sheffield and packaged in custom bottles with brewer-designed labels.

Aged at the distillery since 2015, the whiskeys will be released in the order in which they were distilled. Being a limited collection, each whiskey will be sold in the BMD tasting room and then distributed to select stores and restaurants.

The first release will feature three whiskeys distilled from UFO White Ale from Mass. Bay Brewing Co., Spencer Brewery’s Trappist Ale and Big Elm Brewing’s 413 Farmhouse Ale located in BMD’s hometown of Sheffield.

Scheduled to be released later in 2021, whiskeys will highlight beer from Samuel Adams, Berkshire Brewing Company, Jack’s Abby Craft Lagers, Brewery Ommegang, Captain Lawrence Brewing, Smuttynose Brewing, Long Trail Brewing Company, Two Roads Brewing and Chatham Brewing.

For a listing of release dates and events, visit craftbrewerswhiskeyproject.com and follow BMD on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.

The distillery, located at 356 South Main Street in Sheffield, is open every day from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information and to find out where products are available, visit the BMD website.

About Berkshire Mountain Distillers
Nestled in the scenic Berkshires of Sheffield, Massachusetts, Berkshire Mountain Distillers is a trailblazing craft distillery that’s been pouring pure joy since 2007—Massachusetts’ first legal one since Prohibition ended! As pioneers in the small-batch spirits scene, they craft award-winning gems like Berkshire Bourbon, a smooth sipper bursting with spicy rye, vanilla, caramel, and toasted nut vibes, alongside New England Corn Whiskey and even a smoky peated bourbon for those craving adventure. Using local grains and pure spring water, every bottle captures the rugged, fun-loving spirit of the mountains—perfect for fireside toasts or trail-end celebrations. Swing by for tours, tastings, and picnic vibes under the pavilion; it’s whiskey magic in the heart of New England. Discover more at berkshiremountaindistillers.com!

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Introducing Bomberger’s PFG Kentucky Straight Bourbon – A New Frontier in Whiskey Innovation

January 29, 2025 By Dow Scoggins

The year 2025 marks the debut of Bomberger’s PFG (Precision Fine Grain) Kentucky Straight Bourbon. For years, Bomberger’s Declaration Bourbon has been celebrated for its rich, bold character. Now, with Bomberger’s PFG™, Michter’s continues its commitment to innovation and craftsmanship, pushing the boundaries of American whiskey.

“This new release is a remarkable expression with incredible texture and a full spectrum of rich flavors. It reflects our team’s meticulous exploration of wood science under carefully controlled conditions,” says Michter’s Master Distiller Dan McKee.

A Unique Double-Barrel Aging Process
Bomberger’s PFG™ begins its journey aging in a toasted and charred American oak barrel. After full maturation, it is transferred to a custom French fine grain oak barrel, crafted with precision from staves that undergo a rigorous 40-month natural air-drying process in France. The second barrel—a proprietary blend of wood sourced from legendary forests such as Tronçais, Allier, Nevers, and Vosges—is toasted at a meticulously controlled temperature before receiving a select charring.

The whiskey then undergoes further maturation in these finishing barrels, enhancing its depth and complexity. Once matured, it is batched in small quantities, filtered through Michter’s signature process, and bottled at 100.2 proof (50.1% ABV).

A Luxurious Tasting Experience
Michter’s Master of Maturation Andrea Wilson describes the final result:
“Bomberger’s PFG delivers an enticing medley of aromas, from confectionary sweetness to delicate floral notes. The palate unfolds beautifully with integrated fruit and herbaceous layers, culminating in a full-bodied, creamy texture. The finish lingers with soft spice and hints of chocolate, making for an unforgettable whiskey experience.”

Availability & Pricing
Bomberger’s PFG is available in 750ml bottles with a suggested U.S. retail price of $140.

Honoring a Rich Heritage
With its Shenk’s and Bomberger’s Legacy releases, Michter’s pays tribute to the historic Pennsylvania distillery founded as Shenk’s in 1753, later renamed Bomberger’s in the 1800s, before eventually becoming known as Michter’s in the 20th century.

Bomberger’s PFG™ continues this tradition of excellence—where heritage meets innovation in every sip.

About Michter’s,
Michter’s Distillery traces its storied legacy back to 1753, when Swiss Mennonite farmer John Shenk founded America’s oldest whiskey distillery in Schaefferstown, Pennsylvania, initially producing rye whiskey that reportedly fortified George Washington’s troops at Valley Forge. Known over the years as Shenk’s, then Bomberger’s, the brand endured Prohibition, financial challenges, and closure in 1989 before being revived in Kentucky by Joseph Magliocco in the 1990s. Today, Michter’s operates state-of-the-art facilities including the Shively Distillery for primary production and the historic Fort Nelson Distillery on Louisville’s Whiskey Row, opened in 2019, where visitors can experience its “cost be damned” commitment to crafting premium American whiskey, Kentucky straight bourbon, and rye whiskey.

Michter’s portfolio shines with small-batch and single-barrel expressions renowned for exceptional quality and extended aging, including the flagship US1 Kentucky Straight Bourbon with rich caramel, vanilla, and stone fruit notes; the bold, peppery US1 Single Barrel Rye; and the unique US*1 Unblended American Whiskey matured in whiskey-soaked barrels for a mellow profile. Highly allocated limited releases like the 10-Year Bourbon and Rye, Toasted Barrel finishes, and ultra-rare 20- and 25-Year offerings appeal to collectors seeking top-rated American whiskey. With a focus on premium grains, heat-cycled warehousing, and bottling only at peak maturity, Michter’s consistently earns acclaim as one of the world’s most admired bourbon and rye whiskey producers.

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Wheel Horse Whiskey Releases Double Oak 5-Year

January 28, 2025 By Dustin Scoggins

Wheel Horse Whiskey, distilled and matured at the historic Green River Distilling in Owensboro, Kentucky, announced the release of its new Double Oak 5-Year Bourbon. With just 2,100 bottles produced, this Bourbon joins the brand’s family of limited edition, seasonal whiskeys.

The new Wheel Horse Double Oak is the first five-year expression from the brand. After aging over four years in its original charred oak casks, the whiskey was transferred to new charred oak barrels to finish aging, giving the Double Oak Bourbon a rich, oak-forward flavor. Like all the brand’s small batch whiskeys, Double Oak Bourbon is bottled at 101 proof, non-chill filtered. The SRP is $34.99.

“Double oak Bourbons have gained in popularity over the last few years,” Stephen Corrigan, Barrel Master of Wheel Horse, said in a news release. “Our goal when crafting Wheel Horse Double Oak was to complement the underlying cherry note of the whiskey with bold flavors of raw sugar and cocoa.

“To achieve this, we hand selected a group of new Char 1 barrels whose staves had gone through extended air seasoning. After a little more than 6 months finishing in these casks, the end result is complex and balanced, and something that we can’t wait for others to enjoy.”

The new Double Oak Bourbon Winter 2024 release joins the brand’s family of limited edition whiskeys, which this year have also included Cigar Blend Bourbon (Fall), Rye Whiskey finished in Caribbean Rum barrels (Summer) and Toasted Barrel Bourbon (Spring).

About Wheel Horse Whiskey

Wheel Horse Whiskey is crafted at the historic Green River Distilling in Owensboro, Kentucky. The whiskeys are blended, batched and bottled at Wheel Horse’s facility in Rhode Island. The brand’s flagship expressions, 101 Rye and 101 Bourbon, have acquired numerous accolades since hitting the market in 2020.

For more information, visit https://www.wheelhorsewhiskey.com.