In the heart of Louisville, where the air carries the sweet scent of aging barrels and the echoes of Kentucky's whiskey heritage, a story unfolds that's as much about patience as it is about bold gambles. Pursuit Spirits, the innovative whiskey outfit started by podcast hosts Kenny Coleman and Ryan Cecil, has just unveiled Old Anvil, a bourbon that's proof positive that sometimes the best things come from what looks like a total bust.
It all kicked off back in 2019 when Coleman and Cecil, fresh off the success of their Bourbon Pursuit podcast, spotted an opportunity they couldn't ignore. They snagged four barrels from one of Kentucky's top distilleries – the kind of place with a reputation that makes whiskey lovers sit up straight. These weren't just any barrels; they boasted a rare mashbill of 70 percent corn, 21 percent rye, and 9 percent malted barley, and they were already five years into their aging journey. Excitement ran high, so much so that the duo dove in without even taking a sample sip. After all, with credentials like that, what could possibly go wrong?
As it turned out, plenty. When those barrels finally rolled onto their loading dock, the first taste was a letdown of epic proportions. Instead of the deep, layered notes they'd hoped for, the young whiskey hit with sharp flavors of fresh-cut grass and dry hay – not exactly the stuff of legends. For a budding brand like Pursuit Spirits, still finding its footing in a crowded market, this felt like a pricey stumble. But rather than dump it or force it into something it wasn't, they did what any seasoned whiskey man might: they shoved those barrels to the back of the rickhouse and let time do its work.
Years ticked by, and life got busy. Pursuit Spirits grew, building on their podcast fame to carve out a niche in the whiskey world. They focused on their flagship Pursuit United line, blending top-shelf bourbons and ryes from distilleries nationwide. Those forgotten barrels? They gathered dust, maturing quietly in the shadows.
Then came a check-in a few years later. At eight years old, the whiskey was starting to evolve. The harsh edges had softened, hinting at potential, but it still didn't quite fit the Pursuit United vibe. Back into storage it went, like a project car in the garage waiting for the right moment.
Fast forward to 2023, and everything shifted. Pursuit Spirits relocated to a new distillery on historic Mellwood Avenue, a spot steeped in Louisville's distilling past. Digging into the site's legacy uncovered tales of old-school whiskey making that fired up the team. And when they revisited those barrels – now a full 11 years mature – magic had happened. The once-unappealing spirit had transformed into a powerhouse of rich oak influences mingled with deep, nutty undertones. It was balanced, complex, and ready for the spotlight.
This rebirth led straight to Old Anvil, the latest gem in Pursuit Spirits' Mellwood Legacy Collection – their third release in the series. The name draws from a forgotten label once produced by General Distillers right there in Louisville, adding a layer of local history that resonates with anyone who appreciates the roots of American whiskey. Bottled straight from the cask at a robust 119.4 proof, Old Anvil delivers a sip that's bold without being overwhelming, the kind of pour that demands a quiet evening by the fire or sharing stories with old friends.
Ryan Cecil, Pursuit Spirits' CEO and master blender, summed it up best in the announcement: "Old Anvil is proof that time can change everything. We once thought these barrels were a mistake, but years later, they became something truly remarkable. It's a good thing we had a ton of distractions because I'm excited to see what this bourbon has become." His words capture the essence of whiskey making – it's not always smooth sailing, but perseverance pays off.
For those eager to get their hands on this limited edition, it's available only at Pursuit Spirits' brand-new Whiskey Row spot, which swung open its doors just this month. Starting August 28, you can snag a 375-milliliter bottle for $99.99, but act fast – they're limiting sales to a handful of cases each day to keep things fair. If you want a sure shot at one, book the Mellwood Past & Present experience through their site; it guarantees your chance to buy while supplies hold out.
What sets Pursuit Spirits apart in today's whiskey scene isn't just their releases like Old Anvil – it's their whole approach. Forget the massive, traditional distilleries churning out the same old thing. Coleman and Cecil pioneered a smarter way: sourcing and blending standout barrels from various producers across the country. It's customized, award-winning stuff that punches above its weight.
And their Whiskey Row venue? It's more than a store – it's a destination for guys who live for the details. Picture immersive tours where you hand-pick your own barrel and bottle it right there, creating a personal keepsake that's one-of-a-kind. Then there's the P. Club, an exclusive membership that hooks you up with all-access perks no matter where you call home – think priority releases, special events, and insider info that makes you feel like part of the inner circle.
Cap it off with Trial + Error, their cocktail lounge that's got that perfect mix of cozy, lived-in vibes and sleek modern touches. The menu's loaded with premium spirits, inventive drinks, and just-right small bites to pair with them. Whether you're unwinding after a long day or toasting a milestone, it's the spot where whiskey dreams come alive.
Old Anvil isn't just another bourbon; it's a reminder that great things often start rough and get better with age. In a world that moves too fast, Pursuit Spirits shows us the value in waiting, in letting flavors develop and stories unfold. For Kentucky whiskey fans chasing that next rare find, this one's worth the hunt – a testament to risks taken, lessons learned, and the timeless allure of a well-aged pour. If you're in Louisville or planning a trip, make the stop; you might just walk away with a bottle that'll become your new favorite tale to tell.
