As the leaves start turning and the air gets that crisp edge, there's nothing quite like settling in with a drink that captures the season's warmth. Enter Rebel Bourbon's newest creation: a butter pecan bourbon cream that's hitting shelves just when folks are craving something cozy and indulgent. This isn't your average spirit—it's a smooth mix of their classic wheated bourbon and real cream, designed to elevate those quiet evenings by the fire or add a kick to weekend gatherings.
Picture this: a bottle that stands out on the shelf with its sleek black glass and a label in shades of golden brown, the Rebel name etched in deep, earthy tones. It's not just about looks, though. Priced at around twenty bucks for a full 750-milliliter size, this limited-release gem is rolling out nationwide starting this month, straight from the distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, and select stores everywhere. With only so many to go around, it's the kind of thing that might disappear fast, so tracking it down via their online product finder could save a trip.
At the heart of it all is John Rempe, the master distiller who's been steering the ship at Lux Row Distillers. He's the guy who took their proven, award-winning bourbon base and dialed it up with a flavor profile that's pure autumn magic. "We built on our solid foundation and added that special spin to make something truly different," Rempe explains. The result? A drink that's gentle on the palate at 30 proof— that's 15 percent alcohol by volume—making it versatile enough to enjoy straight up, poured over ice, or stirred into a hot cup of joe for that extra layer of comfort.
Diving into what makes this bourbon cream tick, it starts with the scents that hit you right away: a welcoming mix of straight bourbon, hints of cocoa, and that rich brown sugar aroma that pulls you in like a fresh-baked pie. On the tongue, it's all about that creamy caramel smoothness blending with the buttery essence of pecans, creating a taste that's decadent without being overpowering. And the finish? It lingers with more of those pecan notes, rounded out by a touch of toffee that leaves you wanting another sip. It's got that signature wheated bourbon warmth, the kind that feels like a nod to traditions passed down through generations.
Speaking of history, Rebel Bourbon has roots that run deep. The recipe traces back to 1849, born at the old Stitzel-Weller distillery, where they perfected a wheated mash bill that's stayed true over the years. Distilled right there in Bardstown under Rempe's watchful eye, it's all about honoring that rebellious streak— the folks who aren't afraid to buck trends and carve their own path. That's the spirit behind the brand, celebrating guys who value originality and a bit of defiance in their choices.
And the accolades back it up. Take their 10-year single barrel offering, for instance—it's scooped up some serious hardware lately. It snagged the title of Single Barrel American Whiskey of the Year at the 2025 Bartender Spirits Awards, plus a double platinum from the ASCOT Awards that same year. Not stopping there, it earned double gold medals at both the San Francisco World Spirits Competition and the SIP Awards, where it also grabbed the Consumer's Choice nod. These aren't just shiny trophies; they're proof that Rebel knows how to deliver quality that stands out in a crowded field.
For those looking to experiment, this butter pecan cream opens up a world of possibilities. Imagine drizzling it into your morning coffee for a twist on the usual routine, or mixing it with other Rebel bourbons for cocktails that pack a seasonal punch. Their website and social spots on Facebook and Instagram are loaded with ideas, from simple serves to more creative concoctions that could become your go-to for tailgates or holiday get-togethers.
Behind the scenes, Rebel is part of a bigger operation under Luxco, a company that's been in the game since 1958 when the Lux family kicked things off in St. Louis. They're all about producing, supplying, importing, and bottling drinks that hit the mark for everyone involved— from the everyday drinker to the pros in the industry. Since getting snapped up in 2021, they've operated as the branded spirits arm of MGP Ingredients, a publicly traded outfit on Nasdaq under the ticker MGPI.
Luxco's reach extends across multiple spots, pulling together a lineup from four key distilleries. There's Ross & Squibb in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, churning out Penelope and Remus bourbons. Then Lux Row itself in Bardstown, where Rebel shares space with Ezra Brooks and the premium Blood Oath. Over in Lebanon, Kentucky, Limestone Branch handles Yellowstone Bourbon, and down in Arandas, Mexico, Destiladora Gonzalez Lux crafts 100 percent agave tequilas like Cortada, El Mayor, Escasa, and Exotico. It's a diverse portfolio that's won its share of praise, all tied to a straightforward goal: deliver more than expected, every time.
In a world full of options, this new Rebel release feels like a timely reminder of what makes bourbon special— that blend of heritage and innovation. Whether you're stocking the home bar for cooler nights ahead or just treating yourself to something new, it's worth seeking out. As fall settles in, grabbing a bottle could turn ordinary moments into ones worth savoring, sip by sip.
