In a world where whiskey often sticks to the classics, one distillery is shaking things up with a bold nod to a gunslinger's legacy. The World Whiskey Society has just rolled out its first flavored whiskey, the Doc Holliday Huckleberry Edition, drawing straight from the infamous catchphrase of the Wild West icon himself: "I'm your huckleberry." This isn't just another bottle on the shelf—it's a bridge between rugged frontier tales and today's easy-sipping pleasures, perfect for those evenings when you want something familiar yet fresh.
Image credit: World Whiskey Society
Picture this: a whiskey that captures the untamed energy of the Old West, but with a fruity kick that feels like a summer escape in the middle of winter. The Doc Holliday series has always celebrated that fearless vibe, and this new edition takes it further by infusing a classic bourbon base with the tangy sweetness of huckleberries. It's the kind of drink that reminds you of long days on the trail, followed by a rewarding pour around the campfire—or in your case, maybe the backyard grill after a solid day at the shop.
At the heart of this release is a careful craft that blends tradition with innovation. The folks at World Whiskey Society didn't just slap a flavor on any old spirit; they built it around their signature smoothness. Bottled at a approachable 35% ABV, or 70 proof, it's strong enough to hold its own but smooth enough for steady enjoyment. Crack open a bottle, and the aroma hits you first—bright and tart huckleberry notes rise up, mixed with the comforting sweetness of wild berry jam. Underneath, there's a soft layer of vanilla and a hint of light oak that adds just the right warmth and balance, like the glow of a setting sun over the plains.
Take a sip, and it unfolds layer by layer. The palate starts with that juicy, slightly tangy huckleberry punch, giving way to a deeper wave of wild berry sweetness. Then comes the mid-palate surprise: a cozy touch of toasty, lightly honeyed graham cracker that grounds everything. The bourbon foundation shines through with gentle vanilla tones and a subtle oak backbone, keeping it rooted in what makes whiskey great. And the finish? It's smooth and hangs around for a medium stretch, leaving behind a bright berry linger, a creamy vanilla note, and a faint whisper of oak spice that invites another pull.
This isn't some overly sweet concoction that masks the whiskey—it's a harmonious mix where the berry enhances the spirit without overpowering it. As Alex Kogan, CEO of World Whiskey Society, puts it: "This exceptional release pays tribute to the bold, fearless spirit of the Wild West while delivering a modern twist of juicy, summer-inspired flavor that can still be enjoyed all winter. Our master blender has crafted a classic whiskey profile enhanced with the sweet, tart taste of fresh huckleberries, achieving a perfect balance of richness and refreshment. Vibrant berry notes meld seamlessly with the signature smoothness of the Doc Holliday series, creating a dynamic and flavorful experience that transports you to a sun-soaked summer adventure with every sip."
What makes this stand out even more is the story behind the bottle. Doc Holliday, the gambler and gunfighter known for his quick wit and quicker draw, embodies that independent streak many admire. His famous line from showdowns has become a symbol of stepping up with confidence, and World Whiskey Society channels that into every drop. This flavored version marks a first for the company, expanding the Doc Holliday lineup that's already earned a spot in collections for its tribute to such timeless grit.
But let's talk about the bigger picture with World Whiskey Society. Founded back in 2020, this outfit isn't content with the ordinary. They hunt down rare whiskies from every corner of the globe, always chasing that one-of-a-kind edge. Their mission is simple: uniqueness above all. Sometimes that means teaming up with a distant distillery to bring something fresh to the table. Other times, it's about experimenting right here at home, like taking small-batch American bourbon and finishing it in exotic oak barrels sourced from places like Japan. The result? A lineup that spans everyday sips to special occasion toasts.
Their collections reflect that variety. The Classic Collection offers reliable pours for those routine unwinds after a long week. Step up to the Reserve Collection for something a bit more refined, maybe for sharing with buddies over a game. Then there's the Doc Holliday tributes, like this huckleberry gem, which capture historical flair with modern appeal. And for the real collectors, the Diamond Collection pulls out all the stops with ultra-premium expressions that were once out of reach even for seasoned enthusiasts. It's all about making whiskey accessible yet extraordinary, whether you're kicking back solo or raising a glass at a family gathering.
Priced at just $45, the Doc Holliday Huckleberry Edition won't break the bank, making it an easy grab for trying something new without the commitment of a high-end splurge. You can snag it right now through the World Whiskey Society's online shop or hunt it down at select retailers across the country. It's the sort of bottle that fits right into a home bar setup, ready for neat pours, on the rocks, or even mixed into a simple cocktail when you're feeling creative—like a twist on an old fashioned with a berry edge.
For anyone who's grown tired of the same old rye or scotch routines, this release opens the door to flavored whiskeys done right. It's not about gimmicks; it's about enhancing the core experience with flavors that complement rather than compete. Imagine pairing it with a hearty steak dinner or just enjoying it straight while recounting stories from your own adventures—be it a road trip out west or a weekend fishing trip. The huckleberry brings a lively, refreshing angle that's versatile year-round, proving that innovation in whiskey can honor the past while pushing boundaries.
World Whiskey Society continues to build its reputation by focusing on what matters: quality, rarity, and that spark of discovery. With releases like this, they're not just selling whiskey—they're inviting you into a world where every sip tells a story. If you're curious about their full range, from those Japanese oak-finished bourbons to other rare finds, their website has all the details. In an industry full of traditions, this huckleberry edition stands as a reminder that sometimes a little bold flavor is all it takes to reignite the fire.
