As the leaves turn and the air cools in Kentucky, September brings more than just fall—it ushers in Bourbon Heritage Month and the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, a time when whiskey lovers gather to celebrate the state’s iconic spirit. This year, Buzzard’s Roost Distillery is stealing the spotlight with the release of their limited-edition Cigar Blend Bourbon on September 5, a 6-year-old, 105-proof whiskey crafted to pair perfectly with a fine cigar. Priced at $85, this bourbon is set to make waves among enthusiasts who appreciate a bold pour with a story to tell.
Buzzard’s Roost, a Louisville-based independent distillery, has built a reputation for pushing boundaries with their innovative approach to whiskey-making. Their Cigar Blend Bourbon is no exception, designed to complement the rich, earthy notes of a premium cigar while standing strong as a standalone sipper. The release follows the runaway success of their Cigar Rye, which sold out quickly and left fans clamoring for more. For those who savor the ritual of pairing a good smoke with a great drink, this bourbon promises to elevate the experience.
A Crafted Pairing for the Senses
What makes this bourbon unique is its meticulous production process. The Cigar Blend Bourbon starts with a mash bill of 60% corn, 36% rye, and 4% malted barley, giving it a high-rye backbone that delivers a spicy kick balanced by sweet, smooth notes. The distillery’s signature double oak process is where the magic happens. The whiskey is aged in lightly charred, heavily toasted barrels, a technique that co-founder and master blender Jason Brauner says is key to its distinctive profile.
“We’ve got 17 different barrel profiles we work with,” Brauner explains. “For this bourbon, we handpicked a few for secondary maturation to bring out specific aromas and flavors that pair beautifully with a cigar, much like a bold red wine enhances a perfectly cooked steak.” The result is a whiskey with subtle smoky aromas, sweet caramel, and baking spices, followed by a long finish that evokes campfires, spice cookies, and caramel apples. It’s a flavor journey that feels like sitting by a fire pit on a crisp evening, cigar in one hand, glass in the other.
A Personal Touch
For Buzzard’s Roost co-founder and CEO Judy Hollis Jones, the Cigar Blend Bourbon is more than just a new release—it’s a nod to family memories. “My father and grandmother loved good cigars,” she shares. “Every sip of this bourbon brings back happy moments spent with them.” This personal connection adds depth to the whiskey’s story, making it not just a drink but a tribute to tradition and togetherness.
The bourbon’s release is perfectly timed for the Kentucky Bourbon Festival, held from September 4-7 in Bardstown, where attendees can sample it at Buzzard’s Roost’s booth. The festival, a cornerstone of Bourbon Heritage Month, draws whiskey fans from across the country to taste new releases, meet distillers, and soak in the culture of Kentucky’s signature spirit. For those who can’t make it to Bardstown, the bourbon will be available starting September 5 online through the distillery’s website and at their Whiskey Row tasting room in downtown Louisville at 624 W. Main Street.
Beyond the Bottle
Buzzard’s Roost isn’t stopping at the standard Cigar Blend Bourbon. They’re also offering a limited number of single barrels of barrel-strength Cigar Blend Bourbon and Cigar Blend Rye for those seeking an even bolder experience. These exclusive offerings are uncut and unfiltered, showcasing the raw intensity of the whiskey. Interested buyers can reach out directly to the distillery at Ryan@buzzardsroostspirits.com to inquire about securing one of these rare barrels.
The distillery’s commitment to innovation sets it apart in a crowded bourbon market. Founded in 2019 by Judy Hollis Jones and Jason Brauner, Buzzard’s Roost has quickly made a name for itself by focusing on secondary maturation techniques. Their whiskeys undergo a second aging in 18-month-seasoned oak barrels with a Char #1 toast level, a process that coaxes out complex layers of flavor. This approach has earned them accolades, including Gold and Double Gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition for their rye and bourbon expressions.
A Whiskey for Every Occasion
While the Cigar Blend Bourbon is crafted with cigar enthusiasts in mind, its versatility makes it a standout for any whiskey lover. Whether sipped neat, on the rocks, or mixed into a classic cocktail like an Old Fashioned, it delivers a robust yet approachable profile. The high-rye mash bill gives it enough spice to hold its own, while the double oak aging smooths out the edges with sweet, smoky undertones.
For those who enjoy the ritual of pairing a drink with a cigar, the bourbon’s flavor profile is a natural match. The subtle smoke and caramel notes complement the rich, leathery taste of a premium cigar, creating a sensory experience that’s both indulgent and refined. It’s the kind of whiskey that invites you to slow down, savor the moment, and share a story or two with friends.
A Growing Presence
Buzzard’s Roost’s reach extends far beyond Kentucky. Their whiskeys are available in 25 U.S. markets, from Arkansas to Alberta, Canada, and their online store makes it easy for fans to get their hands on a bottle. The distillery’s tasting room on Whiskey Row has become a must-visit for bourbon trail travelers, offering tours, sensory experiences, and a chance to explore their full portfolio of bourbons and ryes.
As Buzzard’s Roost continues to grow, they remain committed to crafting whiskeys that stand out. Their Cigar Blend Bourbon is a testament to their ability to blend tradition with innovation, creating a spirit that resonates with both seasoned bourbon drinkers and those new to the game. With its rich flavors, thoughtful craftsmanship, and personal story, this release is poised to become a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts.
Why It Matters
The timing of the Cigar Blend Bourbon’s release couldn’t be better. Bourbon Heritage Month celebrates the history and artistry of America’s native spirit, and the Kentucky Bourbon Festival is the perfect stage for Buzzard’s Roost to showcase their latest creation. Whether you’re a cigar aficionado or simply a fan of well-crafted whiskey, this bourbon offers something special—a chance to connect with a moment, a memory, or a good friend over a glass of something truly unique.
For those planning to attend the Kentucky Bourbon Festival or visit Whiskey Row, mark September 5 on your calendar. Buzzard’s Roost’s Cigar Blend Bourbon is more than just a drink—it’s an experience, one that’s sure to leave a lasting impression.
