Fan Favorites: The Most Popular Kentucky Owl whiskey Releases
Kentucky Owl whiskey has established itself as a prominent player in the bourbon landscape, earning the nickname "the wise man of bourbon”. Founded by Charles Mortimer Dedman in 1879, the brand thrived until Prohibition forced its closure. Each release of Kentucky Owl tells a compelling story, blending heritage with innovation and showcasing the art of distilling at its finest. This guide will explore its most famous expressions, which have become cherished staples in the bourbon community. Let’s dive in!
History of Kentucky Owl Whiskey
The original Kentucky brand was founded in 1879 by pharmacist Charles Mortimer Dedman, on the banks of the Kentucky River. During the early 1900s, it earned accolades at fairs and exhibitions. However, with the onset of prohibition in 1920, the distillery was shut down, leading to a lengthy hiatus and a gradual fade into obscurity.
In 2014, Dixon Dedman, the founder's great-great-grandson, revived the brand. This Revival began with the release of Kentucky Owl bourbon batch #1, which quickly captivated whiskey enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Since its reintroduction, the Kentucky owl has released several popular expressions, each showcasing a commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Today, it represents a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation and continues to honor its rich legacy.
Expressions of Kentucky Owl Whiskey
1. The Wiseman Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
The Wise Man is the first Kentucky release from master blender John Rheas. It is composed of four straight bourbons selected for their exceptional taste.
This expression of the Kentucky owl is known for its outstanding quality. It won numerous awards, including double gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2023 & 2022. Moreover, it has also been awarded 95 points by a tasting panel magazine.
The reason is that aromas of caramel, allspice, citrus, and oak fill the nose, complemented by notes of vanilla, caramel ice cream, baking spices, and peppery oak throughout the palate.
2. The Wiseman Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
It is the first permanent release under the master blender. This rye whiskey has a specific proof/ABV. It is a traditional rye with a mash bill of 95% Rye. It gives aromas of rich and spicy hints of fresh rye bread and slight hints of caramel and cinnamon. But it gives a taste of rich rye, spicy character, and a long finish of rye bread.
The Wiseman Rye Whiskey has been recognized for its unmatched quality. In 2023, it was awarded double platinum at the Ascot Award. Other outstanding achievements include receiving gold at the TAG Global Awards in 2023.
3. Kentucky Owl Batch #11
Each Kentucky Owl bourbon release is made from some of the finest bourbons in Kentucky and bottled to bring out the most desirable bourbon flavor. Each new batch is an original with its unique taste profile, carefully crafted by a master blender. These highly sought-after, artfully blended craft bourbons have become an instant sensation, and every batch sells out almost solely by word of mouth.
4. Kentucky Owl Batch #12
Batch #12 is a unique blended whiskey utilizing very particular, well-aged, bold bourbons ranging from 4 to 14 years old. Each bottle of Kentucky Owl Bourbon release is made from some source of the finest bourbon in Kentucky. When you taste it, you will know about its unique taste profile.
These highly sought-after, artfully blended craft bourbons have become an instant sensation, and every batch sells almost solely by word of mouth.
5. Kentucky Owl Mardi Gras XO Cask
In Celebration of the spirit of Mardi Gras and the pride of Louisiana, this limited-edition expression of Kentucky owl straight rye whiskey has been generally aged for 11 years before sleeping a further year in a selection of rare Bayou XO casks to create and mature into a unique rye whiskey.
It gives aromas of robust toasted rye bread with notes of farm-fresh sweet butter. But it also has a strong flavor, and the sweetness of bayou rum XO finishes mingling across the tongue.
6. Kentucky Owl St. Patrick's Edition
Kentucky Owl has partnered with Irish Whiskey Bonder to celebrate the long-standing ties that bind Irish and Kentucky whiskey-making. The whiskey has sweet caramel and honey aromas, along with long notes of butterscotch and frosted cinnamon roll. Kentucky Owl St Patrick's Edition has been awarded 87 points by Tasting Panel magazine.
7. Kentucky Owl Takumi Edition
Kentucky Owl Takumi Edition is an artfully blended bourbon that provides whiskey lovers with an insight into the flavor profiles sought after by a Japanese whiskey master blender. It is a special release that brings the best of Japanese whiskey-making skills. It gives a savory mix of light rye bread, sweet caramel richness, and a hint of tangy fruit salad.
Kentucky Owl Takumi Edition has been awarded 97 points by Tasting Panel magazine.
8. Kentucky Owl Maighstir Edition
Maighstir is born from a collaboration between Kentucky owl master John Rhea and Scotch Whisky Master Blender. When you drink it, you will get a sweet sense of small grains, the malted barley, with a hint of sweet caramel. The balance of the small grains with the hint of sweet caramel gives an immediate sensation. Kentucky Maighstir Edition has been awarded 96 points by Tasting Panel magazine.
Takeaway
Kentucky Owl Whiskey has undeniably made its mark on the bourbon landscape with a diverse lineup of releases catering to seasoned fans and newcomers alike. From groundbreaking Batch #11 to the unique flavors of the rye Batch #1, it reflects a dedication to quality and craftsmanship that resonates with fans. As a bourbon enthusiast, continue to explore the intricate flavors and rich histories behind these fan favorites. Now, you might be thinking of tasting this whiskey. As a premium online liquor store, Royal Batch Provides an exclusive collection of Kentucky Owl Expression. Check our collection and shop now!