In the vast, sun-baked landscapes of Northern Nevada, where generations of farmers have tilled the soil for over a century and a half, a new chapter in American whiskey is unfolding. Frey Ranch Distillery, nestled on a sprawling 2,000-acre farm in Fallon, has just unveiled a limited-edition gem that's turning heads among whiskey enthusiasts: its 100% Barley Whiskey from the Single Grain Series. This isn't just another bottle hitting the shelves—it's a bold statement on what happens when tradition meets innovation, crafted entirely from grains grown right on the property.
The story of Frey Ranch starts back in 2006, when Colby and Ashley Frey decided to transform their family's long-standing agricultural legacy into something spirited. The Freys' roots in farming stretch back 170 years in this rugged region, a testament to hard work and resilience that's as American as it gets. What sets this distillery apart is its commitment to self-sufficiency—it's one of the few in the country that grows every single grain used in its whiskeys on-site. No shortcuts, no outsourcing; just pure, homegrown quality that has propelled Frey Ranch to become one of the top-selling ultra-premium bourbons in the United States and a heavyweight producer on the West Coast.
This latest release, the 100% Barley Whiskey, embodies that farm-to-glass philosophy. Distilled from two-row unmalted barley harvested from their own fields, it's been patiently aged for four years and eight months before being bottled at a robust 110-proof. That strength packs a punch, but it's balanced in a way that invites savoring rather than overwhelming. The folks over at Esquire magazine didn't hold back in their review, noting, “There’s a rich sweetness on the palate, with strong notes of butterscotch, caramel, and honey, but it’s not cloying or saccharine. The whiskey will definitely appeal to bourbon lovers, but anyone interested in trying something new in the world of American whiskey should give this a try as well.” High praise indeed, especially for a spirit that's pushing boundaries beyond the usual corn-heavy bourbons.
And the accolades don't stop there. This barley whiskey recently clinched a Best of Class designation at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, scoring an impressive 97 points and earning a double gold medal. In a field crowded with entries from around the globe, that's no small feat—it underscores Frey Ranch's knack for crafting whiskeys that stand out for their depth and character. For those who've spent years building their home bars with reliable favorites, this award-winning release offers a fresh twist, blending the familiar warmth of classic American whiskey with the subtle complexities that come from a single grain focus.
But here's the catch: Frey Ranch is only releasing a very limited quantity, and it's available exclusively through their online whiskey shop. They're offering it in two thoughtfully curated bundles that pair it with some of their other experimental expressions, making it easier to dive deeper into what this distillery is all about. The Whiskey Lover’s Two-Pack comes in at $99, a steal considering its $118 value, and includes the 100% Barley Whiskey alongside their Malted Four Grain Bourbon. It's a duo designed for those who appreciate the nuances of grain variations, letting you compare and contrast right from your own glass.
Then there's the Bourbon + Barley Two-Pack, also priced at $99 with a $118 value, featuring a 750ml bottle of their Four Grain Bourbon paired with the new 100% Barley Whiskey. This one's perfect for bridging the gap between tried-and-true bourbon profiles and this innovative barley offering. Keep in mind, though, that shipping timelines mean these won't make it under the tree in time for Christmas. Instead, think of them as a smart way to kick off the new year—maybe refreshing that bar cart that's seen better days or turning a potentially dry January into something a bit more lively and enjoyable.
Looking ahead, Frey Ranch isn't resting on its laurels. The distillery has shared some intriguing predictions for American whiskey in 2026, hinting at trends that could reshape how we think about our favorite pours. From evolving grain experiments to sustainable farming practices, it's clear they're positioning themselves at the forefront of the industry. For anyone who's followed the rise of craft distilleries, this is a reminder that the best innovations often come from places rooted in history, like a Nevada farm that's been feeding families for generations.
If you're ready to explore more, the Frey Ranch website at freyranch.com is the go-to spot for details on their lineup, the farm's story, and how to snag one of these limited bundles before they're gone. In a world where mass-produced spirits dominate, Frey Ranch's 100% Barley Whiskey stands as a refreshing outlier—proof that sometimes, the most satisfying sip comes from sticking close to the land. Whether you're a bourbon die-hard or just curious about the next big thing in American whiskey, this release deserves a spot in your collection. It's not just about the drink; it's about honoring the craft, the soil, and the spirit of perseverance that built it.
