In the world of fine whiskey, few things get enthusiasts more excited than a fresh drop from a respected Kentucky brand. Enter 15 STARS and their latest offering, the Artisan Collection—a carefully crafted blend that's already making waves even before hitting shelves widely. This isn't just another bottle; it's a limited run that's got collectors checking their calendars and wallets.
Picture this: only 1,290 bottles produced, each one a mix of straight bourbon whiskeys aged for 15 and 12 years. Sourced from distilleries in Kentucky and Indiana, this expression steps boldly into the realm of ultra-aged bourbons, where time in the barrel builds layers of character that younger spirits just can't match. Bottled at a robust 109 proof, it's got that kick without overwhelming the nuances that make bourbon special. And at $179 a pop, it's positioned as a premium pick for those who appreciate the real deal, available now at select stores across the country or straight from the 15 STARS website.
What sets this release apart? It dropped right in time for the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, that annual September gathering where thousands of whiskey fans flock to sample the latest and greatest. It's like the Super Bowl for bourbon lovers—tastings, events, and a chance to rub elbows with industry folks. Launching here feels spot on, tapping into the buzz when everyone's primed for something new.
But here's the kicker: this bourbon didn't just show up unannounced. It snagged the Best Bourbon award at the Spring 2025 John Barleycorn Awards, a competition that spotlights top-notch craftsmanship and fresh ideas in the spirits game. And get this—it won before the public even got a taste. That kind of pre-launch nod speaks volumes about what's inside the bottle.
The secret sauce? 15 STARS credits their unique Flavor Proofing™ process, a method that fine-tunes the blend for maximum appeal. They start with a high-corn mashbill, which amps up the sweetness in a way that feels like dessert in a glass. As co-founder Ricky Johnson puts it, that corn-heavy base delivers a "dessert sweetness" that perfectly counters the bold oak flavors from all those years of aging. It's about balance—letting the wood's influence shine without turning bitter or overpowering.
For anyone who's spent time nosing around a good pour, the tasting profile here is a journey worth taking. Start with the aroma: it's rich with maple and caramel right up front, mingling with dried fruits like orange citrus, black cherry, plum, and apple. Then come the spices—nutmeg and cracked pepper add a subtle zip—blended with hints of tobacco, fresh oak, and even a whiff of hay fields that evokes those rolling Kentucky landscapes.
Sip it neat or over a big ice cube, and the palate opens up with caramel and vanilla leading the charge. As it develops, you'll notice the shift to aged oak and that worn-in old leather vibe, like sinking into a favorite armchair. Mid-palate, the dark fruits take center stage—prune, raisin, and more plum for a deep, satisfying complexity. The finish lingers long, wrapping up with plum and caramel echoes, then dark chocolate, roasted nuts, oak, and leather fading out smooth.
This isn't a mass-produced sipper; it's aimed at serious bourbon hunters and collectors who chase those rare, aged gems. With demand for limited-edition releases on the rise, that tiny 1,290-bottle batch is bound to vanish quick. It's the kind of bottle you pull out for a quiet evening by the fire or share with buddies over stories of past adventures—proof that good things come to those who wait, both in the barrel and on the shelf.
In an industry flooded with options, 15 STARS is carving out space by focusing on quality over quantity. Their Artisan Collection isn't just a drink; it's a testament to patience, skill, and the timeless appeal of American whiskey done right. If you're building a collection or just looking for your next standout pour, this one's worth tracking down before it's gone.
