In the heart of Kentucky's bourbon country, where rolling hills meet the scent of charred oak barrels, a storied whiskey brand is marking a milestone that's got enthusiasts raising their glasses. The 2025 Yellowstone Limited Edition from Limestone Branch Distillery isn't just another bottle on the shelf—it's a nod to a legacy that stretches back over 150 years, blending tradition with a fresh twist that keeps things exciting for those who appreciate a good pour.
This year's release celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Yellowstone Limited Edition series, which kicked off back in 2015. What started as a way to honor the brand's roots has evolved into an annual event that bourbon fans look forward to, much like a reliable hunting trip or a weekend getaway to the great outdoors. Limestone Branch, based in Lebanon, Kentucky, has built its reputation on crafting whiskeys that capture the essence of American spirit—bold, unpretentious, and full of character.
At the helm is Stephen Beam, the founder and master distiller who's no stranger to the whiskey world. As a seventh-generation distiller with ties to both the Dant and Beam families—icons in the industry—Beam brings a deep well of knowledge to every batch. For this special edition, he teamed up with the folks at Ross & Squibb Distillery, one of the oldest operations in the game, with roots that dig deep into American distilling history. This collaboration marks a first: pulling barrels from both Kentucky and Indiana sites to create something truly one-of-a-kind. It's like combining the best elements from two proven playbooks to score a win that's greater than the sum of its parts.
The result? A straight bourbon whiskey that's a blend of three distinct mash bills, each aged a full 10 years. Bottled at 105 proof— that's 52.5% ABV—it's a tribute to the original 2015 launch, packing enough punch to warm you up after a long day without overwhelming the senses. Beam himself described the process as a natural step in his ongoing experiments with blending, pushing boundaries while staying true to the quality that's kept Yellowstone on shelves since the late 1800s. "We've done something different every year," he noted, emphasizing how this edition stands out by merging resources from two states without cutting corners.
Picture this: You're sitting on the porch as the sun dips low, cracking open a bottle that's as much a work of art as it is a drink. The 2025 edition comes in a custom embossed bottle, topped with a natural cork that feels substantial in your hand. The label pops in black and gold, proudly displaying the 10-year age statement, anniversary nods, and Beam's own signature—like a personal stamp of approval from a guy who knows his craft inside out. It's the kind of packaging that makes you want to display it on the bar cart, right next to your favorite decanter.
But let's talk about what really matters—the taste. This bourbon greets you with inviting aromas of vanilla and oak, laced with subtle citrus notes that add a bright edge, evoking memories of fresh mornings in the woods. On the palate, it unfolds with layers of rich caramel and more vanilla, mingled with toffee sweetness and hints of stone fruit that bring a fruity depth without going overboard. The finish lingers like a good story around the fire, with charred oak giving way to touches of honey, cherry, and a warm cinnamon spice that leaves you satisfied and ready for another sip.
Production is limited, with just 30,000 bottles hitting shelves this September—perfect timing for Bourbon Heritage Month, when folks across the country tip their hats to this American tradition. At a suggested retail price of about $100 for a 750ml bottle, it's positioned as a worthwhile splurge for those who value quality over quantity. That's around 10,000 cases making their way to stores and the distillery itself, so if you're keen, it's worth checking availability sooner rather than later. And if the past is any guide, this one's building on success; last year's version snagged a gold medal at the ASCOT Awards, proving the team's got a knack for turning out winners.
To understand why this release hits home, you have to go back to the beginning. Yellowstone Bourbon traces its name to the nation's first national park, established in 1872—a symbol of rugged wilderness and untamed beauty that resonates with anyone who's spent time under open skies. The brand was originally founded by Joseph Bernard Dant, a pioneer in distilling who saw potential in creating a whiskey as enduring as the land itself. Fast-forward to 2011, when Stephen Beam revived it at Limestone Branch, blending his family's heritage into every drop. It's not just about making booze; it's about preserving a piece of history.
Beyond the bottle, Yellowstone stands for something bigger. Since 2018, the brand has partnered with the National Parks Conservation Association, chipping in a cool $1 million to help protect those wild spaces that inspired its name. For guys who grew up hiking trails, fishing rivers, or just appreciating the quiet strength of nature, this connection adds an extra layer of meaning. It's whiskey with a purpose—sipping it feels like contributing to keeping America's backyard pristine for the next generation.
As bourbon continues to boom, with more folks discovering the joys of a well-aged dram, releases like this remind us why some brands endure while others fade. The 2025 Yellowstone Limited Edition isn't chasing trends; it's rooted in craftsmanship, collaboration, and a commitment to excellence that's been honed over generations. Whether you're stocking the cabinet for special occasions or just treating yourself after a hard week's work, this one's got the makings of a new favorite. Head over to the distillery or your local spot to grab a bottle—before they're gone, like a fleeting sunset over the horizon.
