When a distillery with deep Tennessee roots decides to step up its game, whiskey fans take notice. Ole Smoky Distillery, known for turning out some of the best moonshine and flavored whiskeys around, has just rolled out its latest creation: Ole Smoky Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This isn't just another bottle on the shelf—it's a nod to the old-school traditions that made Tennessee whiskey famous, and it's now available nationwide after a strong showing at their home spots last year.
Picture this: a bourbon that's been sitting in barrels for four solid years, soaking up all that rich flavor. It's got a full-bodied taste that's smooth enough to sip straight, with those classic notes of smoke, char, and caramel that make you think of cozy evenings by the fire or sharing stories with buddies after a long day. And at just $24.99 a bottle, it's premium quality without the wallet-busting price tag that some high-end whiskeys demand. Retailers across the country are stocking it starting this month, so it's easier than ever to grab one and see what the buzz is about.
Ole Smoky isn't new to the whiskey world—they've built a reputation on authenticity and solid craftsmanship. Starting back in 2010, the company drew from the Appalachian heritage of the Smoky Mountains, where early settlers crafted moonshine with pride and a bit of that rugged spirit. As the first federally licensed distillery in East Tennessee, Ole Smoky turned what was once a backwoods tradition into a powerhouse brand. Today, they're the top seller and most awarded moonshine maker globally, with over 25 varieties of authentic moonshine and 17 different whiskeys that appeal to folks who appreciate a good pour without all the fuss.
This new Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey marks a big shift for them, moving beyond their famous flavored options into the straight whiskey arena. It's a natural fit, given their decades of distilling know-how and the trust they've earned from whiskey drinkers everywhere. The launch comes at a perfect time, too. The American whiskey scene has been booming for years now. According to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States, sales volumes in nine-liter cases jumped 125.9% from 2003 to 2024. That's a massive surge, driven by folks seeking out premium and craft options that deliver real quality.
Will Ensign, the VP of Marketing at Ole Smoky Distillery, puts it best: "This bourbon reflects everything Ole Smoky stands for: authenticity, craftsmanship and exceptional quality. Based on tremendous excitement and demand at our distilleries as well as growing consumer interest in premium American whiskey, we're thrilled to make our Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey available to bourbon enthusiasts and our loyal fans nationwide."
It's no wonder Ole Smoky is riding high. They're not just making spirits—they're creating experiences. Their distilleries draw over five million visitors a year, making them the most visited spot of its kind in America. That kind of foot traffic speaks volumes about how approachable and fun their brand is. Whether you're touring the facilities, sampling their lineup, or just picking up a bottle at your local store, it's all about enjoying the good times with flavors that hit the spot.
The company's growth story is impressive on its own. They've landed on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in America for five straight years—2020 through 2024. Add to that seven Hot Brand Awards from Shanken Communications, three Blue Chip Brand Awards, two 2025 Growth Brand Awards from the Beverage Information Group, and the 2023 PR%F the Magazine Distillery of the Year honor. All told, Ole Smoky has racked up more than 500 awards, proving they're not just talking the talk when it comes to quality.
For guys who enjoy unwinding with a solid drink after work or on the weekend, this bourbon offers that refined experience without overcomplicating things. It's versatile—great neat, on the rocks, or mixed into a simple cocktail. The warm, smoky profile brings to mind those timeless Tennessee evenings, where the air is thick with history and the whiskey flows easy. And with Ole Smoky's track record, you know it's made with care, from grain to glass.
Looking ahead, this launch could open doors for even more innovations from Ole Smoky. They've already mastered moonshine and flavored whiskeys, so expanding into straight bourbons feels like the next logical step in satisfying that growing thirst for American-made spirits. If you're curious about their full range or want to learn more, check out olesmoky.com. They're active on social media too—Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, Facebook, X, and YouTube—sharing tips, recipes, and behind-the-scenes looks that make you feel part of the family.
In a market flooded with options, Ole Smoky Tennessee Straight Bourbon Whiskey stands out as a reliable choice for anyone who values tradition blended with modern appeal. It's a reminder that sometimes the best things come from sticking to your roots while pushing forward. So next time you're stocking the bar or looking for a gift that says "I know good whiskey," give this one a try. It might just become your new go-to.
