Blade and Bow, a renowned name in the bourbon industry, has officially announced the re-release of its highly sought-after 22-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This iconic bourbon, known for its exceptional aging process and complex flavor profile, is produced at the historic Stitzel-Weller Distillery in Louisville, Kentucky. Released in limited quantities each year since 2015, this bourbon has gained a dedicated following among enthusiasts for its rarity and craftsmanship.
Image credit: Blade and Bow
The Legacy of Stitzel-Weller and Blade and Bow
The 22-Year-Old expression from Blade and Bow isn’t just any bourbon—it’s a tribute to the craftsmanship and heritage of the Stitzel-Weller Distillery, which has long been a cornerstone in bourbon history. The distillery, often referred to as the "cathedral of bourbon," holds a special place in Kentucky’s whiskey-making tradition. This annual release honors that history and the meticulous process that goes into creating this distinct bourbon.
Blade and Bow currently offers only two expressions: its standard Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey and the premium 22-Year-Old edition. The latter is aged using the Solera aging method, a system designed to maintain the flavor profile while adding complexity over time. This process, coupled with decades of aging, has contributed to the unique and celebrated character of the 22-Year-Old bourbon.
An Experience in Every Sip
What sets Blade and Bow 22-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey apart from other bourbons is its deep complexity, developed through over two decades of aging. Douglas Kragel, the Master Educator for Blade and Bow, notes that this bourbon offers a "testament to the enduring craft of American bourbon." According to Kragel, bourbons of this age are incredibly rare, and when they do reach such maturity, they reveal a level of depth and intricacy that sets them apart.
The tasting notes of the 22-Year-Old bourbon reflect its sophisticated nature. On the nose, drinkers are greeted with an inviting aroma of toasted oak, figs, and vanilla, with subtle hints of caramel and baked apples layered underneath. As the bourbon unfolds on the palate, these flavors are joined by honey and autumnal spices, creating a rich and warming sensation. The finish, long and smooth, echoes the sweetness and spiciness, making it a truly memorable pour.
A Limited-Edition Rarity
One of the reasons why Blade and Bow’s 22-Year-Old Bourbon is so coveted is its limited availability. Released once a year in small quantities, it becomes a challenge for bourbon collectors to get their hands on a bottle. The 2024 edition of the 22-Year-Old will be available starting this October at select U.S. markets and the Stitzel-Weller Distillery, but quantities are extremely limited and will only be available while supplies last. In 2023, the bourbon retailed at $549.99 per bottle, but the pricing for 2024 is yet to be confirmed.
For those unable to purchase a bottle, there is still an opportunity to experience this exceptional bourbon firsthand by visiting the Stitzel-Weller Distillery. The distillery offers a 22-Year-Old Tasting Experience, which includes a one-ounce pour of the bourbon served in a handcrafted Terrane glass. Visitors also receive a signature wool tartan bag and a Blade and Bow enamel pin as part of the experience.
A Celebration of National Bourbon Heritage Month
The re-release of the 22-Year-Old bourbon coincides with National Bourbon Heritage Month, a celebration of America’s native spirit. This timing is no accident, as Blade and Bow has always positioned itself as a brand deeply connected to the history and tradition of bourbon-making. The annual release is not just about offering a rare whiskey but also about paying homage to the past and celebrating the artistry behind every bottle.
With bourbon continuing to grow in popularity both domestically and internationally, the demand for premium expressions like the Blade and Bow 22-Year-Old has skyrocketed. Each year, aficionados eagerly await the limited release, knowing that these rare bottles won’t be on the shelves for long. The blend of rich flavors, deep history, and the exclusivity of the product make it one of the most coveted bourbons in the market.
The Blade and Bow Experience
While securing a bottle of Blade and Bow’s 22-Year-Old may be a challenge, fans of the brand can still enjoy the standard Blade and Bow Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, which offers its own distinct character and is more widely available. Additionally, for a more immersive experience, bourbon lovers can visit the Stitzel-Weller Distillery and enjoy the historic surroundings while sipping on some of the best whiskey Kentucky has to offer.
The 22-Year-Old Tasting Experience provides a year-round opportunity for visitors to engage with the bourbon and its storied past. At the distillery, guests can taste the limited-edition bourbon while learning more about the Solera aging method and the history behind the Stitzel-Weller Distillery. The experience is designed not just to offer a taste of the bourbon, but to connect visitors with the rich tradition of Kentucky’s bourbon-making heritage.
Final Thoughts
Blade and Bow’s 22-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is much more than just a drink—it’s a tribute to the artistry and craftsmanship of American bourbon. With its rich history tied to the legendary Stitzel-Weller Distillery, this bourbon offers a complex and unforgettable flavor profile that reflects decades of tradition. Released annually in limited quantities, it continues to captivate bourbon enthusiasts with its rare blend of flavors and the story it tells with every sip.
Whether through purchasing a bottle or visiting the distillery for a tasting, the Blade and Bow 22-Year-Old Bourbon is a must-try for anyone who appreciates the depth, history, and craftsmanship that goes into making a world-class bourbon. As bourbon culture continues to thrive, the Blade and Bow 22-Year-Old stands as a shining example of why Kentucky bourbon remains at the pinnacle of the whiskey world.
About Blade and Bow
Blade and Bow is a premium bourbon brand that pays homage to the rich heritage of bourbon-making and the storied history of the Stitzel-Weller Distillery, one of Kentucky's most iconic distilleries. Launched in 2015, the brand was created by Diageo, a major player in the global spirits industry, and it reflects a dedication to quality and craftsmanship in every bottle.
The name “Blade and Bow” is derived from the symbols of a key and a bow, which represent the keys to the original Stitzel-Weller Distillery. The distillery, founded in 1935 by bourbon legend Julian "Pappy" Van Winkle, was renowned for producing some of the most sought-after bourbons in history. The keys symbolize access to the distillery and the craftsmanship that goes into making bourbon, while the bow represents the enjoyment of sipping and sharing this beloved spirit.
Blade and Bow is crafted using a blend of bourbons that showcase the distinct qualities of the Stitzel-Weller heritage. One of the brand's hallmark features is its adherence to the "five keys" of bourbon production, which include five key components that contribute to the character and flavor of the whiskey. These keys symbolize quality, craftsmanship, and tradition in bourbon-making, and they are central to the brand's philosophy.
The flagship offering, Blade and Bow Straight Bourbon, is a carefully crafted whiskey that is aged for at least five years. It features a mash bill of corn, rye, and malted barley, resulting in a balanced flavor profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, dried fruit, and baking spices. The bourbon is known for its smoothness and complexity, making it approachable for both bourbon newcomers and seasoned enthusiasts alike.
One of the unique aspects of Blade and Bow is its commitment to quality and aging. The bourbon is bottled at 91 proof, offering a bold yet refined experience that highlights the depth of flavor developed during its maturation process. The distillation takes place at the historic Stitzel-Weller site, adding a sense of authenticity and tradition to each release.
In addition to the standard bottling, Blade and Bow also offers a limited-edition Blade and Bow 22-Year-Old Bourbon, which is a highly sought-after expression. This particular release features a more complex and richer flavor profile, showcasing the nuances that come with extended aging. The 22-year-old bourbon is particularly coveted by collectors and bourbon aficionados due to its rarity and the prestige associated with its age.
Blade and Bow has received acclaim from various whiskey competitions and industry critics, further establishing its reputation as a quality bourbon brand. Its unique blend of heritage, craftsmanship, and storytelling resonates with consumers, allowing it to carve out a niche in the competitive bourbon market.
In summary, Blade and Bow is a premium bourbon brand that honors the legacy of the Stitzel-Weller Distillery while embracing modern bourbon-making practices. With its emphasis on quality, heritage, and craftsmanship, Blade and Bow offers a range of bourbons that reflect the depth of flavor and character that define exceptional American whiskey.
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