The World Whiskey Society (WWS) has once again raised the bar for whiskey enthusiasts with its latest offering, a limited-edition 12-Year-Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in Black Currant Brandy Casks. Released on May 8, 2025, as the second quarterly exclusive for its Society Subscription members, this bourbon is making waves for its bold flavors and innovative cask-finishing technique. For those who crave unique and unforgettable whiskey experiences, this release is a must-have, available only to members who act fast to secure their bottle.
A Bourbon Like No Other
What sets this 12-year-old bourbon apart is its finishing process in black currant brandy casks, a rare and daring choice that infuses the whiskey with a distinctive character. The World Whiskey Society, founded in 2020, is known for its relentless pursuit of uniqueness, scouring the globe to partner with distilleries or experimenting with exotic cask finishes. This release is a perfect example of their mission to craft whiskeys that stand out from the crowd.
The bourbon starts with a traditional 12-year aging process, developing the rich, robust foundation that straight bourbon is known for. But it’s the finishing in black currant brandy casks that transforms it into something extraordinary. The casks impart a complex interplay of sweet and spicy notes, creating a whiskey that’s both familiar and refreshingly new. According to Alex Kogan, the founder of WWS, this release is designed to deliver “some of the most unique whiskeys exclusive to our premium members,” and it certainly lives up to that promise.
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Flavors
One sip of this bourbon reveals why it’s generating so much buzz. The nose is immediately captivating, offering a bouquet of black currant jam and ripe dark berries, layered with creamy vanilla, deep oak, and a touch of peanut brittle. Subtle hints of warm baking spices and brandied fruit add an extra dimension, making it a whiskey you’ll want to savor slowly.
On the palate, the experience only gets better. The full-bodied texture coats the mouth with bold flavors of chocolate-covered black cherries and tart currants, perfectly balanced by the classic bourbon sweetness of vanilla, caramel, and roasted peanuts. The finish is long and warming, leaving lingering notes of dark berries, burnt sugar, roasted peanuts, and vanilla bean, with a final whisper of spice that ties it all together. It’s a rich, satisfying conclusion that makes every sip feel like a special occasion.
This well-balanced mix of sweetness and spice, elevated by the unique influence of black currant brandy casks, makes this bourbon a standout in WWS’s portfolio. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey collector or someone just beginning to explore premium spirits, this release offers a flavor profile that’s approachable yet sophisticated.
Exclusivity for Society Subscription Members
The 12-Year-Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey in Black Currant Brandy Casks is available exclusively to members of the World Whiskey Society’s Society Subscription program. For $150 per quarter, subscribers receive rare and limited-edition whiskeys like this one delivered directly to their door. New and existing members are eligible to receive this release, but spots are limited, so prompt enrollment is essential.
For those not ready to commit to the subscription, WWS also offers a free Society Access membership, which provides a gateway to explore their collections and stay informed about future releases. Both membership tiers are designed to connect whiskey lovers with extraordinary bottles that tell a story with every pour. To join or learn more, interested individuals can visit the WWS membership page at https://worldwhiskey.com/pages/become-a-member.
The World Whiskey Society: A Legacy of Innovation
Since its establishment in 2020, the World Whiskey Society has built a reputation for pushing boundaries in the whiskey world. With a focus on rarity and innovation, WWS curates an ultra-premium collection of expressions that were previously out of reach for even the most dedicated enthusiasts. Their approach is simple yet ambitious: seek out uniqueness above all else.
This philosophy guides their partnerships with distilleries around the world, from renowned producers to hidden gems. In some cases, WWS takes a hands-on approach, finishing small-batch American bourbons in exotic casks, such as Japanese oak or, in this case, black currant brandy barrels. Their collections, including the Classic Collection, Reserve Collection, Diamond Collection, and tributes to Doc Holliday, cater to a wide range of tastes, offering whiskeys for both everyday enjoyment and special celebrations.
The 12-Year-Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey in Black Currant Brandy Casks is a shining example of WWS’s commitment to creating whiskeys that are as memorable as they are delicious. By blending traditional bourbon craftsmanship with an unconventional finishing process, they’ve produced a bottle that’s sure to become a prized addition to any collection.
Why This Release Matters
For whiskey lovers, the appeal of this bourbon lies not only in its exceptional flavor but also in its exclusivity. Limited-edition releases like this one are highly sought after, often selling out quickly due to their rarity. The combination of a 12-year-old straight bourbon base and the unique black currant brandy cask finish makes this a bottle that stands out even among other premium whiskeys.
Moreover, the release underscores the growing trend of cask-finished bourbons, where distillers experiment with barrels previously used for other spirits to create new flavor profiles. The black currant brandy casks used here are a bold choice, infusing the bourbon with fruity and spicy notes that complement its traditional sweetness. This innovative approach is likely to appeal to both traditional bourbon fans and those looking for something fresh and exciting.
How to Get Your Hands on This Bourbon
With spots for the Society Subscription program filling up fast, now is the time to act if you want to secure a bottle of this remarkable bourbon. The $150 quarterly subscription fee is a small price to pay for access to exclusive releases like this one, which are crafted to deliver unparalleled quality and flavor. By joining the World Whiskey Society, members not only receive this bourbon but also gain entry to a community of like-minded enthusiasts who share a passion for exceptional whiskey.
For those interested in exploring WWS’s other offerings, the free Society Access membership is a great starting point. It provides updates on new releases, including those from the Classic, Reserve, and Diamond Collections, as well as special editions like the Doc Holliday tributes. Whether you’re a casual sipper or a dedicated collector, WWS offers something for everyone.
Final Thoughts
The World Whiskey Society’s 12-Year-Old Straight Bourbon Whiskey finished in Black Currant Brandy Casks is more than just a drink—it’s an experience. From its enticing aroma to its complex palate and lingering finish, this bourbon delivers on every level. Its exclusivity, innovative cask finish, and connection to WWS’s mission of uniqueness make it a standout release in 2025.
For whiskey enthusiasts looking to elevate their collection or simply enjoy a pour of something truly special, this bourbon is a must-try. But with limited spots available in the Society Subscription program, time is of the essence. Visit https://worldwhiskey.com/pages/become-a-member today to join the World Whiskey Society and claim your bottle of this extraordinary whiskey before it’s gone.
