This October marks the highly anticipated release of the seventh edition of King of Kentucky, a renowned ultra-premium Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey. As one of the most sought-after bourbon releases, this limited-edition 16-year-old whiskey is expected to make waves in the bourbon community. With only 5,100 bottles available, bourbon aficionados are gearing up to get their hands on this prestigious bottle, priced at $349.99.
Image credit: King of Kentucky
A Rich History Reborn
The story of King of Kentucky dates back to 1881 when it was first introduced as a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey. Over the years, the brand built a reputation for quality and craftsmanship. In 1936, the brand was acquired by Brown-Forman, a leading name in the spirits industry. By 1940, however, King of Kentucky was transformed into a blended whiskey, and in 1968, it was discontinued.
Fast forward to 2018, Brown-Forman resurrected King of Kentucky, returning it to its roots as a premium Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey. The revival of the label was met with excitement, and each annual release since has been a celebration of bourbon heritage, craftsmanship, and time-honored tradition. Each edition is unique, with a focus on barrel strength, minimal filtering, and a distinctive flavor profile.
2024 Edition
The 2024 release of King of Kentucky stands out as a 16-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey, bottled at a robust 130.4 proof. The bourbon features a luxurious embossed label with intricate stamp details, reflecting the attention to craftsmanship that the brand is known for. Every bottle comes in a decorative canister, adding a touch of elegance and storytelling, with details about the whiskey’s origin, proof, age, warehouse location, and more.
This year’s edition was carefully curated by Brown-Forman’s Master Distiller, Chris Morris, who handpicked barrels from two distinct production dates in 2007: July 19 and November 15. A total of 63 barrels, aged in Warehouses G and J at the Brown-Forman Distillery, were selected for this release. According to Morris, the barrels’ production dates and their time spent in specific warehouse environments play a significant role in the bourbon’s flavor profile.
“Each barrel in this release tells its own story,” said Morris. “The differences in production dates and warehousing show how much of an impact these variables can have, especially at such an advanced age. The resulting bourbon is a testament to the artistry of barrel aging.”
Unique Barrel Characteristics
One of the defining features of King of Kentucky is that it is an annual single-barrel release, meaning each bottle is drawn from a single, carefully selected barrel, making each bottle unique. This year’s barrels have spent 16 years aging to perfection, resulting in a bourbon with an intense and complex flavor profile.
For bourbon enthusiasts eager to experience this year’s release, tasting notes from the brand provide a glimpse into the whiskey’s character. A representative barrel (#10) offers a rich aroma of chocolate-covered coconut, vanilla bean, caramelized fruit, and robust oak. On the palate, drinkers can expect layers of dark chocolate, old oak, sweet coconut, malt, and rich vanilla, with a wood spice finish.
Availability and Distribution
Due to the small number of barrels and the handcrafted nature of King of Kentucky, production is extremely limited. Only 5,100 bottles are being produced, with the majority staying in Kentucky. However, select markets including Alabama, California, Florida, Illinois, Metro New York, Nevada, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, and Texas will also receive limited quantities.
Given the rarity and demand for King of Kentucky, each bottle is expected to sell quickly. Collectors and bourbon lovers alike are eager to get their hands on this limited-edition release, which continues to solidify King of Kentucky’s place as one of the most coveted bourbon labels on the market.
The Legacy of Brown-Forman
Brown-Forman, the parent company behind King of Kentucky, has a storied legacy in the spirits world. Founded in 1870, the company has built a portfolio of some of the world’s most well-known brands, including Jack Daniel’s, Woodford Reserve, and Old Forester. The company’s commitment to quality, tradition, and innovation has helped it maintain its position as a leader in the premium spirits industry.
With King of Kentucky, Brown-Forman has revived a piece of bourbon history, offering a product that is not only a nod to the past but also a celebration of the future of bourbon craftsmanship. The 2024 release is a continuation of this legacy, showcasing the company’s dedication to producing top-quality, small-batch bourbon.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Have for Bourbon Enthusiasts
King of Kentucky’s 2024 edition is a bourbon that captures the essence of time, craftsmanship, and attention to detail. From its 16 years of aging to the precise selection of barrels and its beautiful packaging, every aspect of this release reflects the artistry behind the brand. The result is a bourbon that is as rich in flavor as it is in history.
As one of the most highly anticipated bourbon releases of the year, the seventh edition of King of Kentucky is sure to be a favorite among collectors and bourbon lovers. Whether you’re drawn to its deep history, its unique barrel aging process, or simply the chance to taste a truly exceptional bourbon, this year’s release promises to be an unforgettable addition to any collection.
About King of Kentucky
King of Kentucky is a highly coveted and prestigious bourbon brand, originally founded in 1881, that has been revived in modern times to much acclaim. The brand is produced by Brown-Forman, the same company behind other legendary spirits like Old Forester and Woodford Reserve. Originally, King of Kentucky started as a straight bourbon but eventually transitioned into a blended whiskey during the mid-20th century, before being discontinued in 1968. In 2018, Brown-Forman decided to resurrect the brand, positioning it as an ultra-premium, limited-edition single barrel bourbon, which quickly captured the attention of bourbon enthusiasts.
The modern iteration of King of Kentucky is released annually, and it is a single-barrel, barrel-proof bourbon, meaning that each bottle comes from an individual barrel and is bottled without dilution. This results in variations between barrels, with each release offering unique characteristics in flavor and proof. Typically aged for around 14 to 15 years, King of Kentucky embodies the traditional essence of well-aged bourbon with complex layers of oak, caramel, and spice that come from long-term barrel aging.
The bourbon is known for its deep, rich flavor profile, featuring notes of dark chocolate, dried fruits, leather, tobacco, and intense oak, balanced with sweeter undertones of caramel, vanilla, and toasted nuts. The barrel-proof nature of the whiskey provides a robust and bold experience, with a long, lingering finish that showcases its maturity and craftsmanship.
Given its limited availability and small-batch production, King of Kentucky is a highly sought-after bourbon, often appealing to collectors and connoisseurs. Each annual release consists of only a few thousand bottles, making it one of the more exclusive and rare offerings in the American whiskey landscape. The scarcity, combined with its exceptional quality, has solidified King of Kentucky's reputation as a top-tier bourbon.
The brand’s revival reflects Brown-Forman's commitment to honoring the legacy of historic whiskey brands while adapting to the modern tastes of bourbon aficionados. Each release comes with detailed information about the specific barrel, such as the barrel number, the aging duration, and the alcohol proof, allowing drinkers to appreciate the individuality of each bottle.
In summary, King of Kentucky is an ultra-premium, single-barrel, barrel-proof bourbon that has become a standout in the world of limited-edition American whiskeys. Its rich heritage, exceptional quality, and exclusivity make it a highly prized bourbon for collectors and whiskey enthusiasts alike. The combination of long aging, bold flavors, and craftsmanship ensures that King of Kentucky continues to be a symbol of excellence in the bourbon world.
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