Milam & Greene Whiskey, a celebrated name in the world of American whiskey, is launching its first release in the 2025 Wildlife Collection: Gray Wolf Straight Bourbon. This exclusive bourbon, crafted from a blend of two six-year-old, cask-strength barrels, promises to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike. Known for its limited runs and rapid sellouts, the Wildlife Collection has built a reputation for producing highly sought-after releases, and Gray Wolf is no exception.
A Celebration of Nature and Whiskey Craftsmanship
The Wildlife Collection is more than just a celebration of bourbon; it’s an innovative exploration of how climate affects the aging process of whiskey. Heather Greene, the master blender and CEO of Milam & Greene Whiskey, explains, “The climatic whipsaw over the last three years in Texas Hill Country had a tremendous effect on the final flavors that you just won’t get in other locations.”
The barrels used for Gray Wolf spent their first three years aging in Kentucky, followed by over three years in Texas. This unique aging journey exposed the bourbon to vastly different climates, including Kentucky’s temperate conditions and Texas Hill Country’s extreme heat, cold snaps, and droughts. These dynamic environmental factors have significantly influenced the bourbon’s maturation and flavor profile, offering a one-of-a-kind tasting experience.
The Name Behind the Release
The name “Gray Wolf” is a nod to the iconic predator that once roamed the lands surrounding Blanco, Texas, where the Milam & Greene distillery is located. Just as gray wolf pups are born in the spring, this bourbon marks the beginning of the Wildlife Collection’s 2025 releases. The distillery aims to highlight the historical and natural significance of these wolves while delivering a whiskey that embodies the untamed spirit of the Texas wilderness.
Inside the Bottle: Gray Wolf’s Flavor Profile
Gray Wolf Straight Bourbon boasts a meticulously crafted mash bill of 60% corn, 36% rye, and 4% malted barley. Distilled at the Green River Distilling Company in Owensboro, Kentucky, it was originally barreled on May 18, 2018. After aging for three years, eight months, and 25 days in Kentucky, the barrels were transported to Blanco, Texas. They spent an additional three years and one month aging in Milam & Greene’s Rickhouse 2, where they absorbed the region’s extreme climatic influences.
The result is a bold, full-bodied bourbon with a mahogany hue. On the nose, Gray Wolf delivers rich aromas of maple bar, coffee cake, creamed corn, fresh mint, and baking spices. Its flavor profile is equally robust, featuring notes of butterscotch candy, black tea, dill, and peppercorn, complemented by a balanced oak presence. The finish is long and refreshing, with hints of German chocolate cake, herbal lozenge, and a burst of fresh mint.
At a potent 125.5 proof (62.75% ABV), this cask-strength bourbon showcases complexity and character, making it a standout addition to any whiskey lover’s collection.
Limited Availability and Pricing
The Gray Wolf Straight Bourbon is priced at $149.99 and will be available starting at 3:00 p.m. (CDT) on Wednesday, March 26, 2025. For the first time, Milam & Greene offers the convenience of online purchasing for pick-up at their distillery tasting room, in addition to nationwide shipping via their website.
With only 284 bottles in this release, it’s expected to sell out within minutes. Collectors and enthusiasts are encouraged to sign up for Milam & Greene’s newsletter, watch the countdown clock on their website, and follow their social media channels for updates.
Supporting Conservation Efforts
In a gesture that underscores their commitment to the environment, Milam & Greene will donate a portion of the proceeds from each bottle sold to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation (TPWF). This partnership aligns with the Wildlife Collection’s theme and supports TPWF’s mission to conserve Texas’ wildlife, habitats, and natural resources for future generations. Since its inception in 1991, TPWF has raised over $240 million to advance conservation projects across the state.
Milam & Greene Distillery: A Legacy of Innovation
Located in the heart of Texas Hill Country, Milam & Greene Distillery is renowned for its dedication to crafting award-winning bourbons and ryes. By blending time-honored traditions with bold innovations, the distillery has earned recognition nationwide, with its products now available in 19 states and counting.
The Wildlife Collection exemplifies the distillery’s creative spirit and commitment to quality, offering whiskey enthusiasts a chance to savor a unique blend while supporting meaningful conservation efforts.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Have for Whiskey Lovers
The Gray Wolf Straight Bourbon isn’t just a whiskey; it’s a testament to the artistry of blending, the influence of nature, and the significance of conservation. With its rich flavors, limited availability, and connection to Texas heritage, it’s a release that’s sure to make waves in the whiskey community.
For more information on Milam & Greene Whiskey and their Wildlife Collection, visit milamandgreenewhiskey.com.
