When the Ryder Cup rolls into Bethpage Black in New York from September 26-28, 2025, it’s not just the golfers who’ll be stealing the show. Elijah Craig, a name synonymous with quality Kentucky bourbon, is stepping up as the Official Bourbon of the Ryder Cup with a limited-edition release that’s already turning heads. This isn’t just another whiskey with a fancy label slapped on it for the occasion. The Elijah Craig 2025 Ryder Cup Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon is a carefully crafted spirit that pays homage to both the game of golf and the state hosting this iconic tournament. For those who love a good pour as much as they love a well-played putt, this bourbon is worth a spot on the bar cart.
A Bourbon with a New York Twist
Elijah Craig didn’t just phone it in for this release. They’ve taken their tried-and-true Small Batch Bourbon, a staple for whiskey fans, and given it a unique finishing process that screams New York pride. After the bourbon is fully matured, it’s aged for an additional eight weeks with toasted staves—75% sugar maple, the official state tree of New York, and 25% applewood, a nod to the Big Apple. These woods aren’t just for show; they add layers of flavor that make this bourbon stand out without overwhelming the classic Elijah Craig profile.
The result is a 94-proof (47% ABV) whiskey that’s approachable yet complex. On the nose, you get a warm hit of apple pie, with hints of maple syrup that feel like a crisp fall day. Take a sip, and the palate opens up with rich caramel, candy apple sweetness, and a touch of maple that doesn’t overpower. The finish is where it gets interesting—soft and warm with notes of chocolate and cocoa, rounded out by a subtle peppery kick that keeps things balanced. This isn’t a sugary dessert drink; the stave aging shifts the sweetness away from the usual caramel and brown sugar notes of Elijah Craig’s standard offerings, leaning into the earthy, fruity character of the sugar maple and applewood.
More Than Just a Bottle
This bourbon isn’t just about what’s inside the glass. The packaging alone makes it a collector’s dream. Each 750ml bottle comes with a natural cork and a gold-sealed wood cap embossed with the Ryder Cup logo, a classy touch for golf fans who want to display their fandom. It’s housed in a commemorative gift box that’s also stamped with the tournament’s golden seal, making it a standout addition to any shelf or bar setup. At a suggested retail price of $69.99, it’s not just a great sip—it’s a piece of memorabilia that captures the excitement of the 2025 Ryder Cup.
For those lucky enough to attend the Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black, Elijah Craig is bringing the experience to life with their on-site Elijah Craig Speakeasy in the Fan Zone. Here, fans can sip on signature cocktails while soaking in the electric atmosphere of one of golf’s biggest showdowns. The star of the show is “The Mulligan,” the official cocktail of the Ryder Cup. It’s a simple yet refreshing mix of Elijah Craig bourbon, iced tea, and lemonade, served with a lemon wheel and a tiny flag pin that mimics a hole-in-one. Think of it as a bourbon-spiked Arnold Palmer (or a John Daly, depending on who you ask) that’s perfect for a warm September day on the course.
Don’t worry if you’re not making the trip to New York. The Mulligan is easy to recreate at home with a bottle of this limited-edition bourbon, some lemonade, and a splash of iced tea. For an extra twist, try infusing the bourbon with green tea for 10 minutes before mixing—it adds a subtle depth that elevates the drink. Whether you’re watching the Ryder Cup from your couch or hosting a watch party, this cocktail is a crowd-pleaser that brings the tournament spirit to your glass.
A Bourbon Built for the Season
What makes this release so appealing is its versatility. The applewood and maple stave finishing gives it a flavor profile that feels tailor-made for fall. As summer fades and cooler weather sets in, this bourbon is the perfect companion for cozy nights or game-day gatherings. Sip it neat to appreciate the nuanced flavors, or add a few drops of water to open up the fruitier notes. For those who love a classic cocktail, it shines in an Old Fashioned, where the maple and apple notes complement a dash of bitters and an orange peel. It’s also sturdy enough to hold its own in warmer drinks as the weather turns chilly, making it a bottle you’ll want to keep around well beyond the Ryder Cup.
At $69.99, it’s priced reasonably for a limited-edition release, especially one tied to such a high-profile event. Some reviews have noted that other retailers might list it closer to $100, which could feel steep for the branding and packaging. But if you find it at or near the suggested retail price, it’s a solid value for both the quality of the bourbon and its collectible appeal. For golf fans, bourbon enthusiasts, or anyone who appreciates a well-crafted spirit, this bottle delivers on multiple fronts.
Elijah Craig’s Deep Roots in Golf and Bourbon
Elijah Craig’s connection to the Ryder Cup isn’t a one-off marketing stunt. The brand has a deep commitment to golf, serving as the Official Bourbon of the PGA of America and sponsoring pros like J.T. Poston and broadcaster Amanda Balionis. Team Europe’s Bob MacIntyre, a brand ambassador, will be teeing off at Bethpage Black for his second consecutive Ryder Cup, adding a personal touch to the brand’s involvement. This limited-edition release is part of Elijah Craig’s broader “Road to Ryder Cup” campaign, which includes retail promotions and on-site activations to keep fans engaged both at the tournament and at home.
The distillery’s legacy goes beyond golf, of course. Elijah Craig, produced by Heaven Hill Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, is often credited as the “Father of Bourbon” for being the first to age whiskey in charred oak barrels back in 1789. That innovation laid the groundwork for the bold, smooth flavors we associate with bourbon today. The 2025 Ryder Cup edition builds on that heritage, blending time-honored techniques with a modern twist that pays tribute to New York’s landscape and the excitement of the tournament.
Why This Bourbon Stands Out
In a world full of co-branded whiskeys that often feel like cash grabs, Elijah Craig’s 2025 Ryder Cup Limited Edition is a refreshing exception. It’s not just a logo slapped on a bottle; it’s a thoughtful release that respects the brand’s legacy while celebrating the spirit of the Ryder Cup. The sugar maple and applewood stave finishing adds a unique dimension without straying too far from what makes Elijah Craig a fan favorite. Whether you’re a bourbon purist, a golf nut, or someone who just appreciates a good story behind their drink, this bottle has something for you.
For those who want to savor the Ryder Cup from afar, this bourbon is a way to bring the tournament home. Pair it with a hearty meal of smoked brisket or ribs to complement the applewood’s subtle smokiness, or enjoy it alongside a slice of pecan pie to play up the maple sweetness. It’s a versatile spirit that works as well on a quiet night in as it does at a lively watch party.
Get It While It Lasts
The Elijah Craig 2025 Ryder Cup Limited Edition Small Batch Bourbon is available nationwide, but it’s a limited release, so it won’t stick around forever. Check with local liquor stores or online retailers to snag a bottle before it’s gone. For those who collect rare spirits or Ryder Cup memorabilia, this is a must-have. Even if you’re just looking for a solid bourbon to enjoy through the fall, it’s a worthy addition to your lineup.
As the Ryder Cup brings together the best golfers from the U.S. and Europe for a battle of skill and pride, Elijah Craig’s limited-edition bourbon offers a way to toast the occasion. It’s a sip that captures the thrill of the game, the warmth of fall, and the craftsmanship of one of Kentucky’s finest distilleries. Grab a bottle, mix up a Mulligan, and raise a glass to great golf and great whiskey.
