Heaven Hill Distillery has unveiled the 18th edition of its prestigious Parker’s Heritage Collection, featuring a unique 14-year-old Kentucky Straight Malt Whiskey finished in reconstructed heavy toast cognac barrels. This limited-edition release continues the tradition of honoring the late master distiller emeritus Parker Beam, who was diagnosed with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, in 2010. Since its inception in 2013, the Parker’s Heritage Collection has raised over $1.3 million for ALS research and patient care, with a portion of the proceeds from each bottle sold contributing to the cause.
This year's release is a distinctive 14-year-old malt whiskey, which was initially barreled in March 2009. The whiskey was matured in 128 barrels, with the original barrels aged on the fourth floor of Rickhouse O and the sixth floor of Rickhouse Q at Heaven Hill’s Bardstown distillery. After aging, the whiskey was transferred into 56 larger, reconstructed heavy toast cognac barrels for nearly four months, further enhancing its flavor profile. These cognac barrels were then aged on the fifth floor of Rickhouse H1, adding layers of complexity to the whiskey.
The mash bill for this edition comprises 65% malted barley and 35% corn, and it is bottled at 107 proof. The whiskey is non-chill filtered, which helps to retain the natural flavors developed during the aging process. According to Heaven Hill, the whiskey offers a rich and velvety taste with prominent notes of molasses and bittersweet chocolate, followed by a warm spice finish featuring cloves and nutmeg. This flavor profile sets it apart from previous releases, showcasing Heaven Hill’s commitment to innovation while staying true to Parker Beam’s legacy of pushing beyond traditional bourbon mash bills.
The production of this edition was made possible through the continued collaboration with master blender Alain Royer, a renowned cognac expert who has worked with Heaven Hill on two previous Parker’s Heritage Collection releases. Royer's expertise in cognac finishing has once again contributed to a distinct expression that highlights Heaven Hill's dedication to exploring new frontiers in whiskey craftsmanship.
Susan Wahl, Vice President of American Whiskey at Heaven Hill, expressed her excitement about the ongoing collaboration with Royer, stating, "We are excited to continue to work with Alain Royer as we look for more ways to innovate with barrel finished products. In honoring Parker's enduring legacy, Heaven Hill Distillery remains steadfast in our commitment to uphold the high standards he set. With this latest expression, we celebrate Parker’s influence on and dedication to innovating outside of Heaven Hill’s traditional Bourbon mash bills by crafting a Whiskey that embodies his spirit as we continue to support ALS research and patient care.”
The Parker’s Heritage Collection is well-regarded in the whiskey community, having earned numerous awards in the past, including accolades for Best North American Whiskey and American Whiskey of the Year. Each release in the series is highly anticipated by collectors and enthusiasts alike, not only for the exceptional quality of the whiskey but also for the cause it supports. This edition, packaged in the same upscale 750 ml bottle as its predecessors but with a new garnet-colored label, will be available nationally and internationally in limited quantities. The bottles are set to arrive at retail locations starting in September with a suggested retail price of $169.99.
The Parker’s Heritage Collection serves as more than just a tribute to Parker Beam; it represents a commitment by Heaven Hill Distillery to continue supporting ALS research and patient care. Beam, who passed away in 2017, left behind a legacy of excellence and innovation that Heaven Hill continues to honor with each new release. The proceeds from the sales of these limited-edition bottles have made a significant impact, contributing over $1.3 million to ALS charities, and this year's release aims to further that contribution.
For those interested in learning more about The Parker Beam Promise of Hope Fund and the ongoing efforts to support ALS research, Heaven Hill encourages visiting the ALS Association’s website. This year’s release not only offers a unique tasting experience but also allows whiskey enthusiasts to participate in a meaningful cause, reflecting Parker Beam’s enduring legacy and the spirit of innovation he championed throughout his career at Heaven Hill Distillery.
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About Heaven Hill Distillery
Heaven Hill Distillery is one of the most prominent and historic American whiskey producers, situated in Bardstown, Kentucky. Founded in 1935, the distillery has a rich heritage and has played a crucial role in shaping the bourbon industry. The Shapira family, who still owns and operates the distillery today, established Heaven Hill shortly after the repeal of Prohibition.
The distillery has gained renown for its commitment to producing a diverse range of high-quality spirits, with a primary focus on bourbon and Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey. Heaven Hill's portfolio includes well-known brands such as Evan Williams, Elijah Craig, Larceny, and Henry McKenna, among others. Each brand within the portfolio offers a unique flavor profile, showcasing the versatility of the distillery's production methods.
Evan Williams, one of Heaven Hill's flagship brands, is recognized for its accessibility and quality, making it a popular choice among bourbon enthusiasts. Elijah Craig, another key expression, is celebrated for its Small Batch and Single Barrel releases, emphasizing craftsmanship and attention to detail. Larceny, known for its wheated bourbon recipe, has also garnered a dedicated following.
Heaven Hill is renowned for its commitment to traditional bourbon-making techniques. The distillery produces its bourbons using a mash bill primarily composed of corn, along with rye and malted barley, and ages them in new charred oak barrels. The distillery operates some of the deepest aging warehouses in Kentucky, contributing to the maturation process of its whiskies.
Tragically, in 1996, a fire destroyed several Heaven Hill warehouses, resulting in the loss of a significant amount of aging whiskey. However, the distillery demonstrated resilience by rebuilding and continuing to thrive in the following years. Today, Heaven Hill Distillery stands as one of the largest independent, family-owned distilleries in the United States, upholding a legacy of quality and innovation in the bourbon industry.
