In the world of premium spirits, few names stir excitement like Rare Character Whiskey. This company has built a reputation for hunting down exceptional barrels and turning them into whiskies that stand out on any shelf. Their latest move takes that pursuit to new heights with the first annual release of Old Cassidy, a Kentucky bourbon that pulls together some of the finest aged stocks in their inventory. Bottled at full cask strength, this expression isn't just another bottle—it's a statement of what happens when careful selection meets masterful blending.
Old Cassidy starts with an 18-year-old Kentucky bourbon as its foundation. That's no small detail. Eighteen years in the barrel means this spirit has had plenty of time to develop deep, layered flavors from the oak. But Rare Character didn't stop there. They hand-picked additional barrels of varying ages, each one chosen because it brings something special to the mix. Some might add notes of rich caramel or dark fruit, others a touch of spice or vanilla. The goal was to create a blend where every element works together, resulting in a bourbon that's complex yet balanced, bold without being overpowering.
This inaugural Old Cassidy 2025 comes in at 61.50% ABV, or 123 proof for those who speak in traditional terms. That's cask strength, meaning no water was added after aging to dilute the intensity. What you pour into your glass is exactly what came out of the barrels—pure, unfiltered power. Distilled and aged right in Kentucky, then bottled in Lexington, it carries the heart of bourbon country in every drop. For anyone who's spent years appreciating straight bourbons, this level of proof promises a sipping experience that's robust and rewarding, perfect for slow evenings with a good cigar or thoughtful conversation.
The story of Old Cassidy doesn't begin with this annual release. Before going wider, the name appeared in two single-barrel versions that turned heads among collectors. One came through a partnership with Frank Dobbins III, a figure known in whiskey circles for his sharp eye on quality. The other tied into Unicorn Auctions, where rare bottles often fetch top dollar. Those limited offerings gave a taste of what was possible, but now Rare Character is opening it up—still in limited quantities, mind you—to more enthusiasts who value craftsmanship over mass production.
Pete Nevenglosky, co-founder of Rare Character Whiskey, put it plainly in the announcement: “Old Cassidy is meant to showcase the best of the best. Every barrel that went into this release was hand selected, and together they form something truly remarkable. This is a bourbon that honors Kentucky tradition while carving its own path forward.”
Those words resonate because they capture the essence of what makes American whiskey enduring. Kentucky has been the epicenter of bourbon for generations, with traditions passed down through families and distilleries. Yet innovation keeps the category alive. Rare Character bridges that gap by sourcing from top distillers across the country, gaining access to barrels that never see public release otherwise. They focus on unique selections, tailored for partners and customers who demand more than the everyday pour.
Looking ahead, Old Cassidy will become a yearly tradition. Each edition promises fresh explorations of rare barrels, always at cask strength to preserve authenticity. That consistency in approach—hand-selection, no compromises on proof—builds anticipation. Collectors and everyday drinkers alike can mark their calendars, knowing the next release might introduce entirely new flavor profiles while staying true to the original vision.
Rare Character Whiskey operates as a purveyor of fine American whiskey, emphasizing relationships that unlock exclusive expressions. Their website, https://www.rarecharacterwhiskey.com/, offers more details on current offerings and how to get involved. It's worth noting a recent development: InvestBev recently closed a financing agreement with the company, which could fuel further growth and more ambitious projects down the line.
For those who enjoy the ritual of whiskey—uncorking a bottle after a long day, pouring a measured dram, letting it open up in the glass—Old Cassidy represents the pinnacle of that experience. The blend's harmony comes from years of patience in the rickhouse, combined with the expertise to know when a barrel is ready. At 123 proof, it demands respect; a splash of water can tame it if needed, revealing even more nuances. Imagine hints of dried cherry from the older stocks, mingled with toffee and baking spices, finishing long and warm.
This release isn't about chasing trends. It's rooted in the timeless appeal of Kentucky bourbon, elevated by selective blending. In a market flooded with options, standing out requires more than age statements or fancy labels. It takes barrels that tell a story, a team willing to taste and tweak until perfection emerges. Rare Character has done just that with Old Cassidy, creating a bourbon that feels both familiar and fresh.
As the annual series continues, expect variations that highlight different aspects of aging. One year might lean into heavily charred barrels for smoky depth; another could emphasize lighter, fruit-forward notes from higher racks in the warehouse. The cask-strength bottling ensures each batch retains its raw character, inviting personal discovery with every sip.
Whiskey enthusiasts often talk about the hunt—the thrill of finding that one bottle that changes your perspective. Old Cassidy 2025 is positioned to be one of those. Limited but accessible beyond single-barrel exclusives, it invites a broader audience to experience Rare Character's curation at its finest. Whether stocked in a home bar or shared among friends, it embodies the dedication to quality that defines great American spirits.
In the end, Old Cassidy honors the past while pushing forward. It's a bourbon for those who appreciate the work behind the liquid—the distillers, the warehouse managers, the blenders who spend careers perfecting their craft. With this inaugural annual release, Rare Character Whiskey has set a high bar, one that future editions will strive to meet or exceed. For now, securing a bottle means joining a select group savoring what might become a modern classic in Kentucky bourbon lore.
