Stephen Curry, the Golden State Warriors' iconic point guard, is no stranger to setting records and making headlines on the basketball court. Now, he's making waves in the world of spirits with his Gentleman’s Cut bourbon brand. To commemorate his 15-year career in the NBA, Curry has introduced a new, limited-edition 15-year-old bourbon named Player Exclusive, priced at an eye-watering $4,500 per bottle.
Curry first ventured into the bourbon market about a year ago with the release of Gentleman’s Cut. The initial offering generated significant buzz both in the basketball and whiskey communities. However, the debut bourbon, priced at $80, received mixed reviews. Critics found it somewhat young and green on the palate, leading to a perception that it was a bit overpriced for what it offered. The new Player Exclusive release, however, aims to elevate the brand's prestige considerably, although its hefty price tag has sparked considerable debate.
Player Exclusive is a 15-year-old bourbon, which is quite rare and notable, especially at this price point. This particular bourbon was distilled back in 2005, well before Boone County Distilling Co., the current producer, started its operations in 2015. Boone County, located in Kentucky, sourced these barrels of aged whiskey and held onto them for five years before deciding to release this special edition under the Gentleman’s Cut label. The bourbon features a high-rye mashbill, consisting of 75% corn, 21% rye, and 4% malted barley, adding a distinctive character to its profile.
This release is exceptionally limited, with only 100 bottles available for purchase. Each decanter is uniquely etched with Curry’s signature, numbered, and comes housed in an elegant wooden box. The stopper on each decanter is adorned with the initials “T.C.C.,” symbolizing Curry’s personal motto: “Trust, Commitment, Care.” For those who appreciate detailed tasting notes, the bourbon is described as having flavors of crème brûlée, butterscotch, orange peel, spice, hazelnut, cherry, and balanced oak, promising a rich and complex tasting experience.
The very first bottle of Player Exclusive was sold at the Golden State Warriors Foundation annual event, fetching a staggering $350,000, with proceeds benefiting the charity. This incredible sale price underscores the high value and collectibility associated with this release. Enthusiasts looking to acquire a bottle can place orders through Back Room Wines in Napa, California starting in June. However, for those who are not prepared to spend such a large sum, the original Gentleman’s Cut bourbon remains available for purchase on various websites, including Total Wine, at a more accessible price point.
Curry’s foray into the bourbon industry is more than just a business venture; it’s a celebration of his illustrious NBA career and a reflection of his passion for high-quality spirits. The Player Exclusive bourbon, with only 100 of the 230 produced decanters available for public purchase, stands as a true collector’s item, appealing to both bourbon connoisseurs and Stephen Curry fans alike.
This special release coincides with a tasting experience for Platinum Guests at BottleRock Napa Valley on May 25, further integrating the bourbon into the elite social scene. The launch of Player Exclusive also highlights the collaboration between Curry’s company, SC30, and Amuse Bouche Winery owner John Schwartz under the production name Game Changer Distillery, based at Boone County Distilling Co. in Kentucky.
Despite the initial mixed reviews for Gentleman’s Cut, Curry’s latest offering demonstrates his commitment to refining and perfecting his bourbon brand. As the bourbon market continues to grow and evolve, the introduction of high-profile, celebrity-backed products like Player Exclusive underscores the intersection of sports fame and premium spirits, making for a fascinating and lucrative endeavor.
In summary, Stephen Curry’s 15-year-old Player Exclusive bourbon is a bold statement in the luxury spirits market, combining his athletic legacy with an ambitious foray into high-end whiskey production. Whether it will live up to its monumental price tag remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly marks a significant milestone in Curry's post-basketball career and offers an enticing, albeit expensive, opportunity for bourbon enthusiasts and collectors.
