15 STARS Fine-Aged Bourbon has set the stage for an exciting start to 2025 with the launch of their latest creation, Three Ports Fine-Aged Bourbon. Known for crafting luxury whiskey blends from meticulously curated, aged stocks, the brand’s new release promises to redefine what bourbon lovers expect from premium spirits.
Image credit: 15 STARS
A Unique Blend of Age and Flavor
This limited-edition bourbon is the result of blending 9- and 15-year-old Kentucky straight bourbons, a hallmark of 15 STARS' expertise in combining tradition with innovation. What makes this release particularly special is its finishing process. The bourbon spends additional time in three types of port barrels: tawny, white, and ruby. This unique finishing technique infuses the spirit with a depth of flavor and complexity that is rarely seen in the bourbon world.
The result is a bourbon that not only appeals to seasoned whiskey enthusiasts but also invites newcomers to explore the intricate art of bourbon blending. With its bold flavor profile and luxurious presentation, Three Ports Fine-Aged Bourbon exemplifies the craftsmanship that 15 STARS is celebrated for.
An Experience for the Senses
Image credit: 15 STARS
Bottled at 103 proof, Three Ports Fine-Aged Bourbon delivers an intricate sensory experience from the first whiff to the lingering finish.
- Nose: The aromatic journey begins with a medley of fruit-forward notes, including concord grape, plum, and blueberry. Complementing these are subtler hints of honeysuckle, vanilla extract, and dried fruits like apple, banana, pear, and peach. These aromas are tied together by a backdrop of seasoned oak and warm baking spices.
- Palate: The flavor profile is as complex as it is indulgent. Initial sweetness from blackberry, dates, pineapple juice, golden raisins, and meringue gives way to a balanced evolution of cinnamon, fresh wood, and light ground pepper. This transition tempers the sweetness, creating a dynamic tasting experience.
- Finish: The sip concludes with a satisfying, long-lasting finish. Notes of mixed berries, fruit cake, grape, plum, and aged oak linger, leaving an impression of sophistication and refinement.
Craftsmanship Meets Innovation
According to co-founder Ricky Johnson, this release is a “bold step forward in bourbon innovation.” Johnson emphasized that the careful blending of fine-aged bourbons, combined with the triple-port cask finishing process, has resulted in a spirit unlike any other on the market. He stated, "We’re thrilled to introduce this one-of-a-kind release as our first launch of 2025."
Availability and Pricing
Whiskey enthusiasts eager to get their hands on a bottle of Three Ports Fine-Aged Bourbon can find it at select retailers across 28 states and online through the brand's website, 15STARS.com. The suggested retail price for a 750ml bottle is $179, reflecting its premium quality and limited availability.
About 15 STARS Fine-Aged Bourbon
Since its inception in 2022, 15 STARS has been committed to producing luxury bourbon blends that honor Kentucky’s rich heritage as the 15th state in the Union. The brand's name pays tribute to this legacy, referencing the 15 stars and 15 stripes on the second U.S. flag, approved by President George Washington in 1795. Co-founded by father-and-son duo Rick and Ricky Johnson, the company has quickly gained a reputation for excellence, earning over 100 prestigious whiskey awards.
In addition to their bourbon craftsmanship, the Johnson family also incorporates unique heirloom corn varieties grown for their gourmet popcorn business, Black Jewell Popcorn. This focus on quality and innovation is evident in every release under the 15 STARS label.
A Collectible for Bourbon Enthusiasts
Three Ports Fine-Aged Bourbon is more than just a whiskey; it’s a testament to the artistry of blending and finishing. With its rare combination of 9- and 15-year-old bourbons and the intricate influence of three distinct port casks, it stands out as a must-have for collectors and connoisseurs alike. Whether sipped neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of water, this bourbon offers a tasting experience that is both memorable and unmatched.
As 15 STARS continues to push the boundaries of bourbon innovation, their latest release sets a new standard in the world of fine-aged whiskey. For those seeking a truly unique addition to their collection, Three Ports Fine-Aged Bourbon is an opportunity to savor the best of Kentucky craftsmanship.
