In the world of American whiskey, where patience and precision turn grains into gold, Watch Hill Whiskey Company has just dropped two game-changers that any serious collector or sipper needs to know about. These aren't your everyday pours—they're limited-edition masterpieces born from years of careful selection and a deep respect for the craft. Founded just a few years back in 2022 by Tommy Craggs and Josh Howes, the company started with a simple mission: to find and share the kind of whiskey that stops you in your tracks. They opened Watch Hill Proper as their flagship spot, a place designed from the ground up to celebrate the best in American spirits. After tasting countless options and turning down plenty of good ones, they hit on something extraordinary, and that's what sparked the creation of Watch Hill Whiskey Company. Now, they're building on that foundation with their latest releases: Exceptional Series Batch 03 and Chef Series Batch 01, each one a testament to what happens when you don't settle for anything less than outstanding.
Let's start with the backstory of Watch Hill itself, because understanding the roots makes these whiskeys even more appealing. Tommy Craggs and Josh Howes weren't just jumping into the whiskey game for fun—they were on a hunt for perfection. They sampled barrel after barrel, passing on many that others might have snapped up, until they found "the one" that met their sky-high standards. That discovery became the heart of their operation, and Watch Hill Proper emerged as a hub where every detail, from the decor to the drams, reflects their commitment to quality. It's the kind of place that feels like a nod to the old-school distilleries, but with a modern edge that keeps things fresh. For anyone who's spent time building a home bar or chasing down hard-to-find bottles, this company represents that rare blend of tradition and innovation. Their website, watchhillproper.com/whwc, is worth a visit if you want to dive deeper into their story and see what else they're up to.
Now, onto the stars of the show. Exceptional Series Batch 03 is the third installment in their flagship line, and it's all about celebrating the rarest bourbons they can get their hands on. This one's a blend of three carefully chosen 18-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon barrels, each one picked for its deep flavors and standout character. Bottled at a robust 128 proof, it carries forward the reputation built by the first two batches in the series. What makes this release so special? Only 102 bottles were made in total, with just 80 set aside for the public at $499 each. That's not mass production—it's a tiny run that highlights how scarce these aged barrels truly are. Imagine cracking open a bottle that's been maturing for nearly two decades, pulling together layers of richness that only time can create. It's the sort of whiskey you'd pull out for a milestone celebration or a quiet evening by the fire, savoring every sip.
Tommy Craggs, one of the co-founders, put it best in the announcement: “Our Exceptional Series is reserved for bourbon that truly earns that word, and Batch 03 absolutely does. We don’t release a whiskey unless it surpasses our highest expectations, and the combination of these three 18-year barrels is something profoundly special.” His words capture the essence of why this series stands out—it's not about churning out product; it's about waiting for that perfect moment when the whiskey hits its peak. For guys who appreciate the hunt for unique finds, whether it's vintage cars, rare cigars, or top-shelf spirits, this batch is a must-consider. The depth and rarity here make it a conversation starter, something to share with buddies over a poker game or a backyard barbecue.
Shifting gears to the other release, Chef Series Batch 01 kicks off a brand-new annual line that's all about collaboration and personal touch. This one's crafted with input from Executive Chef Michael Crouch, a guy who's made a name for himself not just in the kitchen but as a rye whiskey enthusiast. For this debut, he hand-picked a 12-year-old single-barrel straight rye whiskey, bottled at 130.4 proof right after the barrel crossed into its 13th year. That extra bit of aging gives it a mature, polished edge that's hard to beat. With only 100 bottles produced and 75 available to the public at $249 each, it's another ultra-limited offering that sets a high bar for what's to come in the series.
What really sets this rye apart is how it ties into Chef Crouch's world. Each bottle features his image and name, making it feel like a personal endorsement from someone who knows flavor inside and out. Rye whiskey, with its spicy kick and evolving complexity, has always been his go-to, and this batch embodies that passion. As he said himself: “Rye whiskey has always spoken to me, the spice, the complexity, the way it evolves with time. To have a whiskey that represents my palate and carries my name is truly humbling, and this first batch is everything I hoped it would be: bold, refined, and built on years of patience.” Picture pairing this with a hearty steak dinner or some smoked meats—the bold notes would cut through rich flavors perfectly, elevating the whole meal. It's the kind of spirit that appeals to men who enjoy the finer things, like experimenting with recipes or hosting gatherings where good food and drink take center stage.
Looking ahead, Watch Hill has already lined up more rye barrels for future Chef Series drops, each getting an additional year in the wood before bottling. That means this isn't a one-off; it's the start of something ongoing, where Chef Crouch's expertise will keep delivering fresh takes on rye. Both of these new releases are exclusive to Watch Hill Whiskey Company, and given how few bottles there are, they're going first-come, first-served. The Chef Series Batch 01 is already up for grabs at Watch Hill Proper for those who act fast, while Exceptional Series Batch 03 hits the shelves starting January 6, 2026. If you're the type who plans trips around distillery visits or keeps an eye on release dates, mark your calendar—these won't last long.
In a market flooded with options, Watch Hill stands out by focusing on quality over quantity. Their approach reminds us why whiskey has been a staple for generations: it's about the stories behind the bottles, the craftsmanship that goes into every drop, and the satisfaction of finding something truly rare. Whether you're adding to a collection that's been building for years or just looking for that next great pour to unwind with after a long day, these releases offer a chance to experience American whiskey at its finest. Keep an eye on Watch Hill—they're proving that the best things come to those who wait, and in this case, the wait has been well worth it.
