In the heart of Kentucky, where rolling hills meet the scent of charred oak, Bardstown Bourbon Company is stirring up the whiskey world again. This isn't just another bottle hitting the shelves—it's a pair of limited-edition releases that blend tradition with a dash of the unexpected, drawing on global influences to redefine what American whiskey can be. Discovery #13 and Ferrand II, both dropping nationwide on August 29, promise to turn heads among those who appreciate a spirit with real character and depth. With only so many bottles to go around, these are the kinds of finds that reward the early riser or the dedicated collector.
Bardstown Bourbon Company has built its name on pushing boundaries without losing sight of what makes bourbon great. Founded on the idea that great whiskey comes from relentless exploration, the distillery combines time-honored Kentucky methods with innovative twists. Their Discovery Series, in particular, has earned a loyal following for showcasing the magic of blending different whiskeys into something greater than the sum of its parts. Now, with Discovery #13, they're taking that concept further than ever before.
This release marks the first time the Discovery Series has gone the double-barreled route, a process that adds layers of complexity to an already impressive lineup. It starts with a selection of Kentucky straight bourbons, each aged between eight and 15 years in standard American oak. But here's where things get interesting: the blend is split for a secondary maturation, with part going into fresh American oak barrels and the other into Hungarian oak, known for imparting bolder, spicier notes. After that, the two are reunited, creating a whiskey that's familiar yet full of surprises.
The blend itself is a carefully calibrated mix: 45% from a nine-year-old Kentucky bourbon with a mashbill of 74% corn, 18% rye, and 8% malted barley; 22% from another nine-year-old with 78% corn, 10% rye, and 12% malted barley; 20% from a 15-year-old featuring 75% corn, 13% rye, and 12% malted barley; and 13% from an eight-year-old at 70% corn, 21% rye, and 9% malted barley. All sourced from Kentucky distilleries, this combination clocks in at 110.8 proof, bottled in 750ml sizes for $139.99.
Pour a glass, and you'll see why the double-barreling pays off. The nose hits with that classic vanilla richness bourbon fans crave, but it's quickly joined by waves of baking spice, mocha, and a deep coffee undertone. On the palate, it unfolds like a story—starting with caramel and vanilla, moving into dried fruits, then layering on campfire ash, clove, cinnamon, and toffee. It's the kind of whiskey that feels right at home by a fire on a cool evening, where each sip reveals something new. The Hungarian oak brings an edge that's not overpowering, just enough to make you pause and appreciate the craftsmanship. For guys who've spent years building their collection, this one stands out as a blend that honors the past while nodding to bolder possibilities.
Not content with one groundbreaking release, Bardstown is doubling down with Ferrand II, the sequel to their popular collaboration with France's Maison Ferrand. If the first edition was a successful experiment, this one builds on it by introducing rye into the mix, adding spice and backbone that elevate the whole experience. The blend spends 15 months finishing in Ferrand's cognac casks, infusing American grit with a touch of French elegance.
This isn't hype - Ferrand II just snagged a Double Gold at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, a nod to its balanced, flavorful profile. The makeup breaks down like this: 73% from a nine-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon (74% corn, 18% rye, 8% malted barley); 10% from an 11-year-old (78% corn, 13% rye, 9% malted barley); another 10% from a 12-year-old (75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley); and 7% from a six-year-old rye whiskey distilled right at Bardstown (95% rye, 5% malted barley). At 111.8 proof and $139.99 for 750ml, it's positioned as a premium pour without being out of reach.
Sip it neat, and the flavors come alive: vibrant black cherry leads the charge, backed by toasted oak and a smooth vanilla cream. There's a subtle mint hint that lingers, keeping things fresh. Dive deeper, and you'll pick up baked apple, pecan, and raisin on the mid-palate, with rye spice weaving through for structure. The finish is long and satisfying, blending the robustness of bourbon with the refined notes of cognac. It's versatile too—try it in a Vieux Carré cocktail, where the rye shines against bitters and vermouth, or just over ice after a long day. For those who enjoy tracing a whiskey's journey, this collaboration highlights how crossing oceans can create something timeless.
What ties these two releases together is Bardstown's commitment to curiosity. The Discovery Series has always been about blending whiskeys so the whole outshines the individual parts, and #13 embraces that with its nod to the superstition around the number 13—turning potential bad luck into a legendary sip. Meanwhile, Ferrand II shows that great partnerships deserve encores, merging Kentucky's bold spirit with Maison Ferrand's cognac heritage for a whiskey that's both structured and indulgent.
In a market flooded with options, these stand out for their attention to detail. From the precise mashbills and aging profiles to the thoughtful secondary finishes, every step reflects hands-on expertise. Whether you're a seasoned bourbon enthusiast or someone looking to expand your horizons, Discovery #13 and Ferrand II offer a chance to experience American whiskey with a transatlantic edge. With limited quantities available starting August 29, it's worth marking your calendar—these bottles won't stick around long. Grab one, pour a measure, and see how a little innovation can redefine your go-to dram.
