Blue Run Spirits, a Georgetown, Kentucky-based distillery, has once again raised the bar for whiskey enthusiasts with the release of its third Flight Series in May 2025. This collection, known as Flight Series III, introduces six unique micro-batch whiskeys that blend Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Kentucky Straight Rye, a first for the series. Crafted by Shaylyn Gammon, the Head of Whiskey Development and Innovation at Coors Spirits Co., these whiskeys showcase a bold exploration of flavor, culture, and American landscapes. Each bottle, priced at $124.99, offers a distinct experience, making this collection a must-have for collectors and casual drinkers alike.
A New Chapter in Whiskey Innovation
The Flight Series III marks a significant milestone for Blue Run Spirits, founded in 2020 and recognized by Bloomberg as one of America’s 50 most innovative companies. Unlike its predecessors, which focused solely on bourbon or drew inspiration from outdoor sensory experiences, this third installment combines bourbon and rye to create a harmonious balance of sweet and spicy notes. Shaylyn Gammon, who works alongside Bourbon Hall of Famer Jim Rutledge, describes the blending process as a “journey of discovery.” She emphasizes the challenge of marrying vanilla and honey with savory and spicy elements to create whiskeys that shine both in aroma and taste. The result is a collection that feels both cohesive and individualistic, with each expression telling its own story.
Each of the six micro-batches, or “Flights,” is made from no more than four barrels, ensuring a small-scale, artisanal approach. The barrels, sourced from contract distilleries like Castle & Key, Bardstown Bourbon Company, and an undisclosed third facility, feature #3 and #4 char levels and are aged in non-temperature-controlled warehouses in Bardstown, Kentucky. This aging process allows the whiskey to interact with the environment, adding depth and complexity to the final product.
Six Expressions, Six Stories
What sets Flight Series III apart is its thematic inspiration, with each whiskey reflecting a unique aspect of American culture and geography. The collection’s elegant bottles are adorned with Blue Run’s signature white pearlized butterfly medallion, which reveals a blue tint when light hits it just right. Unique neck labels further distinguish each expression, making them as visually striking as they are flavorful. Below is a detailed look at the six expressions, each with its own proof, mashbill, and tasting profile.
1. Beach & Blooms (109.9 Proof, 54.95% ALC/VOL)
Inspired by the contrast between vibrant floral life and sandy beaches, Beach & Blooms captures the essence of coastal beauty. Its mashbill includes 5-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon barrels (75% corn, 21% rye, 4% barley) and 6-year-old Kentucky Straight Rye barrels (12% corn, 80% rye, 8% barley). The nose offers a woody aroma with hints of cinnamon-spiced chocolate, while the palate delivers a rich fondue-like blend of plum, ripe pineapple, dried fruit, and dark cocoa sugars. The finish is mildly earthy, evolving into caramelized sugar with a lingering spice that keeps you coming back for more.
2. Buck & Brush (110.7 Proof, 55.35% ALC/VOL, Barrel Proof)
Drawing from the rugged imagery of cowboys and the Western landscape, Buck & Brush is a bold, barrel-proof offering. Its mashbill mirrors that of Beach & Blooms, blending 5-year-old bourbon and 6-year-old rye. The nose bursts with sweet citrus and complex spices, leading to a palate of bright orange, cinnamon, sassafras, and spearmint. The finish is intense, with rich black cherry notes giving way to the heat of black peppercorn spice, making it a favorite for those who love a powerful whiskey.
3. Filly & Fiddle (111.3 Proof, 55.65% ALC/VOL)
Filly & Fiddle pays homage to iconic American traditions like bluegrass music and the Kentucky Derby. Using the same mashbill as the previous expressions, it offers a fresh nose of green apple and wildflower honey. The palate is reminiscent of apple crisp, balancing tart apples with earthy honey, maple, golden raisin, and caramel. A smooth, buttery finish with a touch of char rounds out this approachable yet sophisticated whiskey.
4. Fit & Flair (117 Proof, 58.5% ALC/VOL, Barrel Proof)
Inspired by the grit and glamour of urban America, Fit & Flair is the highest-proof expression in the series, delivering a robust, barrel-proof experience. Its mashbill includes 5-year-old bourbon barrels (65% corn, 30% rye, 5% barley) and 5-year-old rye barrels (12% corn, 80% rye, 8% barley). The nose is smoky, with toasted nuts evoking a campfire, while the palate combines savory roasted nuts, candied dried fruit, caramel, and chocolate. The finish lingers with decadent caramel and warm black pepper spice, perfect for sipping slowly.
5. Sails & Rails (115 Proof, 57.5% ALC/VOL)
Celebrating America’s waterways and railway lines, Sails & Rails reflects the nation’s interconnected history. Its mashbill mirrors Fit & Flair, with a nose dominated by full-bodied vanilla extract. The palate is a complex interplay of honeyed sweetness, toasted wood, and earthy notes, likened to ripened bananas smoked over peach wood. The finish is woody and dry, offering a contemplative end to each sip.
6. Sun & Salt (110.2 Proof, 55.1% ALC/VOL)
Sun & Salt channels the laid-back vibe of sunny beaches and surf. Using the same mashbill as Beach & Blooms, it features a mouthwatering nose of whiskey-infused Bananas Foster. The palate blends juicy sour apple, creamy banana, and buttery toffee-like demerara sugar. The finish is robust yet dry, with a sandy texture that evokes the shore, making it a refreshing addition to the lineup.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship
Blue Run Spirits has built a reputation for pushing boundaries while honoring tradition. Founded in 2020, the company has quickly gained acclaim for its innovative approach to bourbon and rye. Jim Rutledge, a Bourbon Hall of Famer, brings decades of expertise to the table, while Shaylyn Gammon’s creative blending elevates each release. The Flight Series III is a testament to their shared vision, combining time-honored techniques with a forward-thinking mindset that appeals to a diverse, modern audience.
The collection’s micro-batch nature ensures that each bottle is a limited treasure, with only a small number of barrels contributing to the final product. This hands-on approach allows Gammon’s artistry to shine, as she carefully selects and blends barrels to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. The use of non-temperature-controlled warehouses adds an element of unpredictability, allowing the Kentucky climate to shape the whiskey’s character.
Where to Find Flight Series III
Blue Run Flight Series III is available in 25 states, including Alaska, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Washington D.C., Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Indiana, Illinois, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Missouri, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Washington. Priced at $124.99, these whiskeys are sold at select retailers and online through Blue Run’s website, www.bluerunspirits.com. Given the limited nature of the release, whiskey enthusiasts are encouraged to act quickly to secure their bottles.
Why Flight Series III Stands Out
For collectors, Flight Series III offers a rare opportunity to own six distinct whiskeys that showcase the versatility of bourbon and rye blends. Each expression is a variation on a theme, inviting drinkers to explore the subtle differences between them. Whether you’re drawn to the tropical notes of Sun & Salt or the smoky intensity of Fit & Flair, there’s something for every palate in this collection.
Casual drinkers will also appreciate the approachable yet complex profiles, which make these whiskeys perfect for sipping neat, on the rocks, or in a cocktail. The storytelling behind each expression adds an extra layer of enjoyment, connecting the drinker to America’s diverse landscapes and cultures. From the beaches of the coast to the railways of the heartland, Flight Series III is a journey in a bottle.
The Future of Blue Run Spirits
Acquired by Coors Spirits Co. in 2023, Blue Run Spirits is part of a growing portfolio that includes Five Trail Blended American Whiskey and Barmen 1873 Bourbon. The company’s commitment to innovation and quality has positioned it as a leader in the spirits industry, with plans for further releases in the coming years. The Flight Series, now a biannual tradition, continues to captivate whiskey lovers with its creative approach and impeccable craftsmanship.
As Blue Run prepares to open its own distillery in Georgetown in 2025, the future looks bright for this young company. With a focus on inclusivity and modernization, Blue Run is redefining what bourbon and rye can be, inviting a new generation of drinkers to discover the magic of whiskey.
Final Thoughts
Blue Run Spirits’ Flight Series III is more than just a whiskey collection—it’s a celebration of creativity, craftsmanship, and the American spirit. Shaylyn Gammon’s masterful blending, combined with Jim Rutledge’s expertise, has produced six whiskeys that are as diverse as the landscapes that inspired them. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a curious newcomer, this series offers an unforgettable tasting experience that’s worth seeking out. Visit www.bluerunspirits.com to learn more and find a retailer near you. Celebrate responsibly, and savor the journey that is Flight Series III.
