Try These New Kentucky Whiskeys

Try These New Kentucky Whiskeys

Spring in Kentucky means more than just blooming flowers—it’s prime time for new bourbon releases, and this year’s lineup is straight-up fire. From big names like Booker’s to fresh players like Club Blue, there’s something for every whiskey lover to chase. I got a chance to sip on one of these at a local distillery last weekend, and let me tell ya, it was like a warm hug in a glass. Here’s a bit about each whiskey.

Booker’s - Barry’s Batch

This bourbon’s got heart, named after Barry Berish, a Beam legend who threw epic parties. At 125.7 proof, it’s bold but smooth, with vanilla and a sweet kick on the nose. I reckon it’s like sipping a memory of good times—Fred Noe says it’s got a finish that leaves you wanting another pour, and I ain’t arguing. Read more.

Elijah Craig Toasted Barrel (Max Homa Pick)

Max Homa’s special barrel pick is a rare gem—126.6 proof and only 200 bottles. It’s got a toasty, rich vibe that hits like a perfect drive. Never tried this one myself, but my buddy swears it’s got enough spice and depth to make you feel like a pro golfer, even if you’re just on the couch. Read more.

Michter’s 10 Year Bourbon

Michter’s 10 Year is back at 94.4 proof, aged just past a decade for extra swagger. It’s got body and layers, like a good story unfolding in your glass. I had a pour of a similar Michter’s at a bar once, and dang, it was so flavorful I forgot my own name for a sec. Read more.

Kentucky Senator: John Edwards

Named after an old-school Kentucky senator, this 107-proof bourbon’s got 7.5 years of age and a smooth, history-soaked feel. With 2,000 bottles out there, it’s still exclusive but reachable. Tasted something like this at a friend’s BBQ—made me feel all patriotic and cozy, like I was sippin’ on tradition. Read more.

Maker’s Mark Star Hill Farm Whisky

Maker’s Mark is breaking new ground with Star Hill Farm Whisky, its first-ever wheat whiskey and a bold departure from its iconic bourbon. Crafted at the distillery’s 1,100-acre Kentucky farm, this limited-release blend of two unique mashbills—aged seven to eight years in a mix of traditional and experimental barrels—delivers caramel, honeyed toffee, and soft cinnamon flavors at a punchy 114.7 proof. Certified by the Estate Whiskey Alliance for its farm-to-bottle transparency, this $100 whiskey hits select shelves in May 2025, promising a fresh chapter for a 70-year-old legend. Read more.

New Riff Silver Grove Straight Bourbon and Rye

New Riff Distilling is set to launch its 2025 Silver Grove Straight Bourbon and Rye Whiskeys on April 4, exclusively at their Newport, Kentucky gift shop for $55.99 each. These barrel-proof beauties, bearing Master Distiller Brian Sprance’s signature for the first time, pack bold flavors with the bourbon’s corn-rye balance and the rye’s spicy kick, all while supporting the Silver Grove Community Foundation with proceeds that have already raised nearly $62,000 for local projects like the new Green Valley Pond park. Read more.

Blood Oath Pact 11

Get ready for a bourbon like no other—Blood Oath Pact 11 from Lux Row Distillers is here to shake things up! Master Blender John Rempe has crafted a bold blend of 14-year ryed, 10-year wheated, and 7-year ryed bourbons, finished in Añejo tequila barrels for a unique twist. Expect warm vanilla and black pepper upfront, with hints of cherry, citrus, and a smooth dark chocolate finish that’ll thrill both bourbon and tequila fans. Available starting April 26, 2025, at $129.99, only 51,000 bottles are up for grabs, so don’t miss out on this limited-edition gem! Read more.

Wild Turkey 8 Year Old Bourbon

Wild Turkey Distilling Company has thrilled bourbon fans by launching Wild Turkey 101 8-Year-Old Bourbon as a permanent U.S. offering in April 2025, priced at $45. Previously a cult favorite in export markets like Japan, this age-stated whiskey delivers a richer, darker flavor than the classic 101, with notes of dark chocolate, tobacco, black cherry, and toffee, thanks to hand-selected barrels and Kentucky’s hot summers. Crafted by the Russell family—Jimmy, Eddie, and Bruce—this small-batch bourbon balances bold tradition with refined complexity, making it a must-try for sippers and collectors alike. Read more.