In the world of American whiskey, few things stir up excitement like a limited-edition bourbon that pushes boundaries while nodding to the past. Enter Remus Repeal Reserve Series IX, the latest from the folks at Remus Bourbon. This straight bourbon whiskey comes straight out of the historic Ross & Squibb Distillery down in Lawrenceburg, Indiana—a place that's been turning out top-shelf spirits for generations. It's not just another bottle; it's a blend of some of the rarest stocks they've got, aged anywhere from 10 to 18 years, and bottled at a hefty 104 proof. That's 52% ABV for those keeping score, making it the strongest in the entire Repeal Reserve lineup so far.
What makes this one stand out? For starters, it's non-chill filtered, which means it keeps all those rich flavors and textures intact—no watering down or stripping away the good stuff. The distillery's known for its high-rye bourbons, and this edition doubles down on that reputation. Master Distiller Ian Stirsman hand-picked the barrels himself, aiming to create something that honors the day Prohibition got the boot back in 1933. Picture this: a mix that's 7% from an 18-year-old bourbon with 21% rye mash, 26% from an 11-year-old at 36% rye, 23% from a 10-year-old also at 36% rye, and the biggest chunk—44%—from another 10-year-old with 21% rye. It's a careful balance that brings out bold spice from the rye while letting the age add layers of depth, like caramel, oak, and maybe a hint of vanilla that lingers on the finish.
Stirsman didn't just throw this together. He and his team scoured their warehouse for the most unique barrels they've come across yet. "Bourbon fans have always expected something new from each edition of Remus Repeal Reserve," he explained in a recent announcement. "That's why for Remus Repeal Reserve Series IX, we found some of our most unique barrels to date. After finalizing the blend, we blind-tasted it at different proofs to ensure we provide fans with the unique experience they expect. In the end, we believe the 104 proof, combined with 10-18-year-old bourbons, did just that." It's that kind of attention to detail that turns a good whiskey into something you tell stories about around the fire pit.
This isn't Remus Bourbon's first rodeo with the Repeal Reserve series. Since it kicked off, the collection has racked up all sorts of awards and shout-outs from critics and competitions alike. We're talking gold medals, high scores, and plenty of buzz in whiskey circles. It's become a go-to for guys who appreciate the craft—the ones who savor a pour after a long day, maybe with a good cigar or over a steak dinner. The history ties right into America's spirit of resilience; after all, the repeal of Prohibition marked the end of a dry era and the rebirth of legal distilling. Ross & Squibb has been part of that story for decades, sticking to traditional methods while tweaking things just enough to keep it fresh.
Now, if you're thinking about grabbing a bottle, act fast. This is a limited release hitting shelves in September, with a suggested retail price starting at $99.99 for a 750mL bottle. That's not pocket change, but for the quality and rarity, it's the kind of investment that pays off in enjoyment. Whether you're building a collection or just looking for that next-level sip to share with buddies during football season, it's worth the hunt. Supplies won't last long, especially with word spreading among enthusiasts.
Diving deeper into what sets this bourbon apart, let's talk about the aging process. Those 10 to 18 years in charred oak barrels aren't just numbers—they're what build character. The older stuff, like that 18-year component, brings a smoothness that's hard to beat, mellowing out the rye's kick without losing the edge. The higher rye content in some of the younger barrels adds that peppery bite, making each sip a journey from bold to refined. And at 104 proof, it's got enough heat to warm you up on a crisp fall evening, but it's not overwhelming if you add a drop of water or an ice cube to open it up.
For anyone who's followed the Remus lineup, this series has always been about evolution. Each year builds on the last, introducing new twists while staying true to the high-rye roots that put the distillery on the map. Stirsman's approach—blind tasting at various proofs—shows a real commitment to getting it right. It's not about chasing trends; it's about delivering a whiskey that surprises and satisfies, the way a great bourbon should.
If you're new to the brand, Remus Bourbon has a whole portfolio worth exploring, from everyday sippers to these special reserves. But the Repeal Reserve stands out as their crown jewel, a tribute to a pivotal moment in history that resonates with anyone who values freedom and fine spirits. Head over to RemusBourbon.com to dig into more details, check out the full range, or even track down where to buy this latest gem. Who knows—Series IX might just become your new favorite story to tell.
