Rebel Bourbon, hailing from Bardstown, Kentucky, has long been a favorite among whiskey drinkers who appreciate a good story behind their pour. As the Official Bourbon of Richard Childress Racing (RCR), the brand has a knack for blending its rebellious spirit with the high-octane world of NASCAR. Their latest release, the Rebel 100 Childress Vineyards Cabernet Franc Barrel Finish, is a limited-edition whiskey that’s got guys—especially those who love racing, bourbon, or both—buzzing with excitement. This unique expression combines the smooth, wheated character of Rebel’s classic bourbon with the rich, fruity influence of Cabernet Franc wine barrels, creating a drink that’s as bold as a racetrack showdown.
The Rebel 100 Childress Vineyards Cabernet Franc Barrel Finish starts with Rebel’s time-tested wheated bourbon recipe, which is aged for four years in charred oak barrels. This process lays down a solid foundation of smooth, approachable flavors that Rebel fans know and love. But what makes this release stand out is the finishing touch: the bourbon is transferred to Cabernet Franc barrels from Childress Vineyards, a winery with deep ties to RCR and its founder, Richard Childress. The wine barrels impart a distinctive character to the whiskey, adding layers of flavor that elevate it beyond a standard bourbon. Bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV), this whiskey packs enough punch to satisfy seasoned bourbon drinkers while remaining smooth enough for casual sipping.
Master Distiller John Rempe, who oversees production at Lux Row Distillers, explained the choice of Cabernet Franc barrels. He wanted to craft a high-proof bourbon that retained Rebel’s signature smoothness but brought something new to the table. “We picked those Cabernet Franc barrels from Childress Vineyards because they pair so well with our wheated recipe,” Rempe said. The result is a whiskey with a flavor profile that’s both familiar and surprising, featuring notes of sweet plums, bright berries, honey, oak, caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice. It’s the kind of sip that makes you pause and appreciate the craftsmanship, whether you’re enjoying it neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail like an Old Fashioned.
The connection to Richard Childress Racing adds a layer of grit and authenticity to this release. Rebel Bourbon has leaned into its racing roots before, notably with a bourbon tied to two-time NASCAR Cup Series Champion Kyle Busch. This time, the partnership with Childress Vineyards, owned by RCR’s founder, brings a unique fusion of racing and winemaking to the bourbon world. Philip Lux, Rebel Bourbon’s Brand Manager, summed it up well: “Richard and the RCR team are all about that rebel spirit, whether they’re on the track or crafting wine. This bourbon captures that energy and gives fans something special to raise a glass to.” For middle-aged guys who follow NASCAR or just appreciate a good underdog story, this whiskey hits all the right notes.
What really sets this release apart is its exclusivity. Only 600 cases—each containing six 750ml bottles—are available to the public, making it a must-have for collectors and bourbon enthusiasts. Starting in May 2025, you can find it at North Carolina ABC stores and directly at Lux Row Distillers in Bardstown, Kentucky, for a suggested retail price of $39.99 per bottle. That’s a steal for a limited-edition whiskey with this kind of pedigree and flavor. But with such a small batch, it’s likely to disappear faster than a racecar rounding the final lap, so bourbon fans will want to act quickly.
The flavor profile of this whiskey is what makes it a standout for sipping or sharing with friends over a weekend barbecue. The sweet plum and bright berry notes from the Cabernet Franc barrels give it a fruity depth that’s not overpowering, while the honey and caramel add a touch of sweetness that balances the oak and spice. It’s versatile enough to enjoy in different settings—whether you’re kicking back after a long workday, toasting a race win, or just catching up with buddies. For guys who appreciate a whiskey that tells a story, this one delivers with its blend of racing heritage, winemaking craftsmanship, and Rebel’s bold bourbon tradition.
Rebel Bourbon’s collaboration with Childress Vineyards is more than just a gimmick; it’s a thoughtful marriage of two crafts that share a rebellious streak. The limited release is a nod to those who live life on their own terms—guys who work hard, play hard, and appreciate a good drink at the end of the day. Whether you’re a NASCAR fan, a bourbon collector, or just someone who enjoys a well-made whiskey, the Rebel 100 Childress Vineyards Cabernet Franc Barrel Finish is worth seeking out. To learn more about this release or explore Rebel’s other offerings, check out RebelBourbon.com. Just don’t wait too long—those 600 cases won’t last.
