Blue Note, the Memphis-based bourbon brand celebrated for its award-winning whiskey portfolio, has announced the launch of its highly anticipated 2025 Special Reserve. This limited-release bourbon blend is a standout offering that showcases Blue Note’s dedication to crafting innovative and memorable whiskey expressions.
Image credit Blue Note
A Unique Blend of Ten Cask Finishes
The 2025 Special Reserve is a masterful blend of straight bourbon whiskeys aged between 4 to 19 years. What sets this release apart is its diverse selection of ten unique cask finishes. These include cognac, madeira, sherry, port, triple sec, apricot brandy, amontillado, vanilla cognac, and vino de naranja casks. This combination results in a complex and layered flavor profile that whiskey enthusiasts will find both bold and smooth.
Bottled unfiltered at 116.3 proof (58.15% ABV), the Special Reserve emphasizes the brand’s commitment to high-quality and unadulterated whiskey. With only 2,000 bottles available, this exclusive release is priced at a suggested retail price of $225 for a 750ml bottle.
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Flavors
The 2025 Special Reserve offers a rich sensory experience. Its tasting notes reveal a bourbon that is as complex as it is inviting:
- Nose: Bright and fruity with hints of cherry, peach, leather, oak, and vanilla.
- Palate: Creamy and light with flavors of oak, vanilla, roasted nuts, dark chocolate, and citrus.
- Finish: A light warmth that lingers, leaving a chewy and slightly dry texture.
Craftsmanship Rooted in Memphis
Blue Note’s bourbon is distilled in collaboration with Bardstown Bourbon Company, the parent company of Green River Distilling. After distillation, the whiskey is aged in Memphis, where the city’s scorching summer days and cooler nights push the whiskey deep into the oak barrels. This aging process creates a rich and unmistakable flavor profile that reflects the soul of Memphis itself.
The brand’s production facilities, located just north of downtown Memphis on Royal Avenue, house 110,000 square feet of operations and include an intimate tasting room. Guided tours are available Thursdays and Fridays, offering visitors an inside look at the craftsmanship behind Blue Note’s creations.
Building on a Legacy of Excellence
Blue Note has established itself as a leader in the bourbon world, with a portfolio that pays homage to Memphis’s deep blues music heritage. Beyond the Special Reserve, the brand has released several other limited-edition offerings, including Premium Small Batch, Single Barrel Reserve, and a 17-year bourbon. More recently, they’ve expanded with Honey Rye and Honey Bourbon Cask expressions, further solidifying their reputation for producing unique and sought-after whiskeys.
Their flagship line includes the highly acclaimed Juke Joint, Crossroads, Uncut, and Straight Rye Whiskey, each offering exceptional value and craftsmanship. The Juke Joint and Crossroads expressions recently earned Platinum medals at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, an accolade reserved for whiskeys that have achieved Double Gold for three consecutive years.
Availability and Distribution
The 2025 Special Reserve is available for purchase on Blue Note’s official website, BlueNoteBourbon.com, and in select stores across 20 states, including Tennessee, Kentucky, Texas, and New York. Online purchases are also available for shipping to a wide range of states, making it accessible to bourbon aficionados nationwide.
About B.R. Distilling Company
Founded in 2014, B.R. Distilling Company is the oldest licensed distillery in Memphis and the producer of Blue Note Bourbon. Known for its innovation and dedication to quality, the company continues to push the boundaries of what whiskey can be. Distributed across 20 states and available online, Blue Note has become a staple for whiskey lovers seeking both tradition and creativity.
A Must-Try for Bourbon Enthusiasts
The 2025 Special Reserve is more than just a bourbon; it’s a testament to Blue Note’s commitment to excellence and innovation. With its intricate blend of ten cask finishes and bold flavor profile, this limited release promises to be a collector’s item for whiskey connoisseurs. Whether enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as part of a crafted cocktail, this bourbon delivers an exceptional drinking experience that reflects the rich heritage of Memphis and the artistry of Blue Note.
