Seattle’s 2BAR Distillery has made waves in the world of whiskey with the release of its longest-aged bourbon yet: a six-year, single-barrel bourbon matured to perfection in charred oak barrels. Known for its commitment to crafting grain-to-glass spirits, 2BAR has solidified its place in the craft whiskey scene by using only locally sourced grain from Washington State. This exclusive six-year bourbon sets a new benchmark for the distillery, offering a taste experience that celebrates regional ingredients, time-honored aging, and robust flavors.
Image credit: 2BAR Spirits
2BAR Spirits, based in Seattle, has built its reputation on producing authentic, high-quality whiskey with a grain-to-glass approach. This means every step in the whiskey-making process—from milling to mashing, fermenting, aging, and bottling—is done in-house. This local-centric process reflects the distillery’s commitment to transparency and craftsmanship, allowing them to control every detail of production. The new 2BAR 6-Year Single Barrel Bourbon reflects this dedication with its use of Washington State-sourced grains, which are then aged for a full six years in 30-gallon American white oak barrels that have been charred to bring out a deep, woody character.
This six-year aging process makes the new release the oldest bourbon 2BAR has produced to date, allowing the flavors to develop in complexity and richness. According to 2BAR’s founder, Nathan Kaiser, the extended maturation in the smaller, 30-gallon barrels plays a critical role in developing the bourbon’s unique taste profile. These smaller barrels increase the surface area of the whiskey in contact with the oak, accelerating the aging process and enhancing the bourbon’s depth and intensity. Kaiser noted that the extended time in the charred barrels brought out “depth and sophistication,” allowing the bourbon’s grain bill—a proprietary mix of locally grown grains—to fully express itself.
The result is a full-bodied whiskey with a robust 128-proof strength, appealing to bourbon enthusiasts who favor bold, complex flavors. On the nose, drinkers can expect a wave of toasted vanilla beans, maple candy, and charred oak. Upon sipping, these initial aromas give way to rich layers of flavor, including notes of dried cherries, oaky wood, and dark chocolate. The bourbon’s high proof and complex tasting profile make it a satisfying option to sip slowly, savoring the progression of flavors that unfold with each sip.
For those interested in trying this rare release, 2BAR has made the 6-Year Single Barrel Bourbon available through its on-site store and online. However, with its limited-edition status and small production volume, this whiskey won’t be available forever. Priced at $88, it’s a chance to own a piece of 2BAR’s legacy, crafted with local ingredients, skilled distillation, and years of aging expertise.
This six-year bourbon marks a milestone not only for 2BAR Spirits but also for the broader Washington State whiskey scene, showcasing the distinct character and quality that locally sourced, grain-to-glass spirits can achieve. For bourbon lovers and collectors, it offers an opportunity to experience a meticulously crafted spirit that’s the result of patience, attention to detail, and a commitment to regional authenticity.
About 2BAR Distillery
2BAR Distillery, located in Seattle, Washington, is a small-batch, craft distillery dedicated to producing high-quality, handcrafted spirits. It was founded by Nathan Kaiser, who named it after his family’s 2BAR ranch in Texas, which has been in the family for five generations. The brand’s ethos centers on values of independence, hard work, and authenticity, which is reflected in its carefully crafted products. Since its founding in 2012, 2BAR has grown steadily, gaining attention for its commitment to producing spirits made entirely from Washington-grown grains. This approach not only supports local agriculture but also ensures the highest level of freshness and traceability for the ingredients used in every bottle.
The distillery’s product lineup includes bourbon, vodka, and moonshine, with its bourbon being one of the most celebrated offerings. Each spirit is made in small batches, allowing for precise control over the distillation process, which is completed on-site in copper pot stills. The bourbons, for instance, are aged in American oak barrels and feature notes of caramel, vanilla, and spices, with a smooth finish that appeals to both casual drinkers and connoisseurs. The distillery has earned a loyal following in the Pacific Northwest and beyond, due to its focus on quality and transparency, inviting customers to visit for tours and tastings.
