Chattanooga Whiskey has a knack for pushing boundaries, and their latest release, Batch 044: Bourbon Barreled Limecello, proves they’re not slowing down. Unveiled on July 3, 2025, this limited-edition liqueur is the third in their citrus-based “cello” series, following the popular Limoncello in 2023 and Citracello in 2024. It’s a bold, refreshing addition to their Experimental Single Batch Series, designed to capture the essence of summer with every sip. With only a small batch produced, this $44.99, 750ml bottle is already a hot commodity at the Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery and select online retailers.
A Fresh Take on Whiskey Liqueurs
What sets Batch 044 apart is its commitment to authenticity. Unlike many liqueurs that rely on neutral spirits or artificial flavors, Chattanooga Whiskey uses 100% real whiskey as the base, infused with all-natural ingredients. This release is built on their signature “Barrel 91” mash bill, a blend of yellow corn, malted rye, caramel malted barley, and honey malted barley. The distillery’s team went all out, peeling 300 cases of limes and lemons to gather over 130 pounds of citrus peel—roughly an ounce per bottle. That’s the kind of hands-on effort that makes this liqueur stand out.
Image credit: Chattanooga Whiskey
The infusion process is where the magic happens. For two weeks, the whiskey soaks up the bright, zesty flavors of lime peel, lemon peel, and a touch of galangal root, a spicy, earthy ingredient that adds depth. The result is a liqueur that balances vibrant citrus notes with a subtle, grounding earthiness. Official tasting notes highlight flavors like key lime pie, lemon meringue, orange blossom tea, lemongrass, and jasmine, making it a versatile addition to cocktails or a smooth sipper on its own.
A New Approach to Distillation
This isn’t just a rehash of their earlier citrus liqueurs. While the Limoncello (Batch 032) and Citracello (Batch 040) leaned on a mix of pot-distilled whiskey for a richer, more robust flavor, Batch 044 takes a different path. It’s the first time Chattanooga Whiskey has used 100% column-distilled whiskey for a liqueur, crafted in their 30-foot tall column still. According to Grant McCracken, the founding distiller, this method brings out a lighter, more floral and herbaceous profile that lets the citrus shine. “The distillation process is key to highlighting the infusion’s flavors,” McCracken explains. “The column still gives us a cleaner, brighter whiskey that pairs perfectly with the lime and lemon.”
The liqueur is then finished for nearly three months in single-use Tennessee High Malt barrels, which add layers of sweet, vanilla-like complexity. Bottled at 83.2 proof (41.6% ABV), Batch 044 strikes a balance between the bold citrus, the barrel’s warmth, and the galangal’s subtle earthiness. With only five barrels produced, this is a small-batch release that’s as exclusive as it is flavorful.
Where to Find It and Why It’s Special
Starting July 3, 2025, Batch 044: Bourbon Barreled Limecello hit the shelves at the Chattanooga Whiskey Experimental Distillery at 1439 Market Street, Chattanooga, Tennessee, for $44.99 per 750ml bottle. For those outside the area, it’s also available online through Seelbachs.com for shipping to select states. But don’t wait—this liqueur is part of Chattanooga’s Experimental Single Batch Series, known for selling out fast due to its limited production and loyal following.
What makes this release so special is Chattanooga Whiskey’s dedication to innovation. Founded in 2011, the distillery fought to change Tennessee laws, becoming the first to legally distill whiskey in Chattanooga in over a century. Their Experimental Distillery, the only standalone facility of its kind in the U.S., is a hub for creativity, hosting over 50,000 visitors each year. The Riverfront Distillery, opened in 2017 at 890 Riverfront Parkway, produces their core lineup, including Chattanooga Whiskey 91, Cask 111, and 99 Rye, as well as their Bottled in Bond and Founder’s Anniversary blends. Their commitment to quality earned them the Icons of Whisky – Craft Producer of the Year award in 2023, both in America and globally.
Pairing It with Summer Vibes
Batch 044 is tailor-made for summer. Its citrus-forward profile makes it a perfect match for backyard barbecues, lakeside hangouts, or a quiet evening on the porch. Sip it neat to appreciate the interplay of lime, lemon, and vanilla, or mix it into a cocktail for a refreshing twist. A simple highball with soda water and a lime wedge amplifies its zesty character, while a splash in a margarita adds a whiskey-driven depth that elevates the classic drink. For those who like to experiment, try it in a whiskey sour for a vibrant, summery spin.
Chattanooga Whiskey’s focus on real ingredients and innovative techniques ensures Batch 044 isn’t just another liqueur—it’s a conversation starter. Whether you’re a whiskey purist or someone who enjoys a lighter, fruit-infused spirit, this release offers something unique. The combination of column-distilled whiskey, hand-peeled citrus, and barrel finishing creates a flavor profile that’s both approachable and complex, appealing to anyone who appreciates a well-crafted drink.
A Bonus Release for Summer
As a bonus, Chattanooga Whiskey also launched a Ginger Infused canned bourbon seltzer alongside Batch 044. This limited-edition highball, inspired by the classic whiskey highball, is made with their Chattanooga Whiskey 91 and infused with lemon peel, orange peel, dried ginger, lemongrass, and gentian. With only four grams of sugar and an 8% ABV, it’s a crisp, refreshing option for outdoor adventures. Available for $16.99 for a 4-pack of 12-ounce cans at select stores in Tennessee and Georgia, as well as the Experimental Distillery, it’s another way to enjoy Chattanooga’s innovative spirit.
Don’t Miss Out
Chattanooga Whiskey’s Batch 044: Bourbon Barreled Limecello is more than just a drink—it’s a testament to the distillery’s passion for pushing the boundaries of craft whiskey. With its limited run of five barrels and a flavor profile that screams summer, it’s a bottle worth seeking out. Whether you’re visiting the Experimental Distillery in Chattanooga or ordering online, grab it while it lasts—their “cello” series has a reputation for disappearing quickly. For more details, check out chattanoogawhiskey.com and join the 50,000 annual visitors who make the pilgrimage to this trailblazing distillery.
