Ross & Squibb Distillery, rooted in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, is preparing to make waves once again in the world of bourbon with the upcoming release of their latest offering, Remus Repeal Reserve Series VIII. This new edition in their highly celebrated Repeal Reserve series pays homage to the distillery’s deep ties to America’s Prohibition era and the notorious figure George Remus, often dubbed the "King of the Bootleggers." Remus was known for his role in supplying premium bourbons during the 1920s when the production and sale of alcohol were illegal across the United States.
As with previous entries in the series, Remus Repeal Reserve Series VIII is crafted to commemorate the repeal of Prohibition in 1933. This era, marked by the struggle for and against alcohol, left a lasting impact on American culture, from the birth of illicit cocktail recipes to the rise of bootleggers who would later influence the development of sports like NASCAR. Ross & Squibb Distillery has long celebrated this complex history through its annual Repeal Reserve releases, which have consistently garnered acclaim for their quality and depth of flavor.
The 2024 edition, Series VIII, stands out for several reasons. Bottled at a robust 101 proof (50.5% ABV), this bourbon is a carefully constructed blend of three high-rye bourbons aged between 10 and 17 years. The distillery has announced that this limited-edition release will hit the shelves in September, perfectly timed to coincide with National Bourbon Heritage Month. Given the limited quantity, enthusiasts can expect a suggested retail price of $99.99 per 750mL bottle, making it a coveted item for collectors and bourbon aficionados alike.
What makes Remus Repeal Reserve Series VIII particularly noteworthy is the innovative approach taken by Ross & Squibb’s Master Distiller, Ian Stirsman, and his experienced blending team. This year, they decided to increase the proportion of high-rye bourbon in the blend compared to previous editions, aiming to add more complexity and a distinctive spicy character to the final product. The blend itself is a meticulous combination of 9% of a 17-year-aged bourbon with 21% rye, 24% of a 10-year-aged bourbon also containing 21% rye, and 67% of a second 10-year-aged bourbon with a higher rye content of 36%.
In addition to altering the blend, Stirsman and his team opted to return to non-chill filtration for this edition, a decision made to preserve the bourbon’s natural viscosity and enhance its mouthfeel. Non-chill filtration is a technique that maintains the whiskey’s essential oils and esters, which contribute to a richer, fuller-bodied texture. The team also conducted blind taste tests of the final blend at various proofs, ultimately deciding that 101 proof offered the most balanced and appealing profile.
The result of these careful decisions is a bourbon that offers a sensory experience from start to finish. On the nose, Remus Repeal Reserve Series VIII presents an inviting aroma of cherry and candied pecans, underscored by subtle hints of leather. As the bourbon touches the palate, flavors of maple syrup and cherry emerge, followed by deeper notes of fig. The finish is long and satisfying, with the rich warmth of vanilla and oak lingering on the tongue, complemented by delicate traces of baking spice that add a final flourish to the experience.
This release is the latest in a line of successful annual offerings from Ross & Squibb, each of which has earned its place in the upper echelons of the bourbon world. Remus Repeal Reserve Series VII, for example, was awarded a Gold medal at the 2024 SIP Awards, while Series VI received a Double Platinum medal at the 2023 ASCOT Awards. Series V also garnered significant praise, scoring an impressive 98 points from Tasting Panel magazine in 2021. These accolades are a testament to the distillery’s unwavering commitment to quality and its ability to create bourbons that resonate with both connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
The Remus Repeal Reserve series not only honors the distillery's historical legacy but also represents Ross & Squibb's dedication to pushing the boundaries of what bourbon can be. By experimenting with different blends, aging processes, and production techniques, the distillery continues to refine and elevate its offerings year after year. Each release in the series is a celebration of craftsmanship and heritage, providing a unique tasting experience that connects drinkers with a pivotal period in American history.
As the bourbon community eagerly anticipates the arrival of Remus Repeal Reserve Series VIII, Ross & Squibb remains steadfast in its mission to produce some of the finest and most memorable bourbons available today. This latest release is expected to be no exception, offering a rich, layered experience that reflects the distillery's expertise and passion for their craft. For those interested in securing a bottle or learning more about the Remus Bourbon portfolio, additional information can be found at RemusBourbon.com.
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About Ross & Squibb Distillery
In 1847, George Ross established the Rossville Distillery, now known as the Ross & Squibb Distillery, on the banks of Tanner's Creek in Lawrenceburg. It marked one of the early distilleries in the area, drawing in whiskey enthusiasts with its legendary rye creations. Lawrenceburg quickly rose to prominence as the epicenter of the whiskey world.
In 1921, George Remus, a former pharmacist turned opportunistic entrepreneur, took over the Squibb Distillery, using it to produce "medicinal" bourbon for his bootlegging empire. This distillery eventually became part of the Ross & Squibb legacy.
During Prohibition, the Ross & Squibb Distillery stood as one of the few resilient establishments, patiently waiting for America's renewed interest in whiskey.
In 2021, the distillery underwent a name change, becoming Ross & Squibb Distillery, a tribute to the mastery, artistry, and heritage that infuse every spirit they produce. Today, whiskey consumption has surged across America, accompanied by a growing appreciation for meticulously crafted spirits deeply rooted in the quality, character, and traditions of their hometown.
While Kentucky is renowned for its bourbon, Lawrenceburg has become synonymous with exceptional rye whiskey and high-rye bourbon. Situated conveniently near the Ohio River and blessed with a massive limestone shelf, Ross & Squibb Distillery, along with its predecessors, benefits from the natural filtration of the cold, pristine water from the Great Miami Aquifer. This unique gift reduces sulfur and iron content, which can mar a whiskey's flavor, resulting in a distinctively bold and spicy taste that no other region can replicate.
About Luxco
Luxco is a prominent beverage alcohol company based in St. Louis, Missouri. Established in 1958, Luxco has a rich history of crafting and distributing a wide range of spirits, including whiskey, rum, vodka, tequila, and liqueurs. The company is known for its commitment to producing high-quality and authentic spirits that appeal to consumers worldwide.
Luxco's diverse portfolio includes several well-known brands, such as Ezra Brooks Bourbon, Rebel Yell Bourbon, Blood Oath Bourbon, and Yellowstone Bourbon, among others. These brands have garnered recognition and awards for their exceptional taste and craftsmanship.
One of Luxco's key strengths is its dedication to innovation and the ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences. The company continues to introduce new products and expand its offerings to meet the evolving demands of the spirits market.
Luxco's commitment to quality is evident in its distillation processes, aging techniques, and careful selection of ingredients. The company's dedication to excellence has earned it a strong reputation in the spirits industry.
As Luxco expands its presence both domestically and internationally, it remains focused on providing consumers with a wide range of spirits that reflect its passion for quality and tradition.
