From a coffin-aged summer whiskey to a historic induction for the Bourbon Hall of Fame, this week’s American whiskey headlines bring a mix of creativity, heritage, and bold releases.
WhistlePig leans into theatrics with its new wheat whiskey, Barrell Craft Spirits drops a 20-year-old rum-finished bourbon, and Green River teams up with the U.S. Army for a high-proof tribute. Add in Chicken Cock’s Bardstown celebration and Mary Dowling’s overdue induction, and you’ve got a week worth raising a glass to.
These are the five stories making headlines across bourbon and American whiskey.
1. WhistlePig Wants to Kill Spritz Season with GraveStock
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WhistlePig’s latest release is loud, irreverent, and intentionally unseasonal. GraveStock Wheat Whiskey is aged in coffin-shaped barrels and proofed with Liquid Death Mountain Water, a brand partnership that leans fully into the anti-spritz attitude. Bottled at 86 proof, the whiskey is part of a limited drop that includes a “GraveStock Survival Kit” and is marketed as the drink of choice for those who think fruity cocktails are for the faint of heart. A bold concept, sure—but it’s backed by solid wheat character and WhistlePig’s flair for theatrics. Read more here.
2. Mary Dowling Posthumously Inducted Into The Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame
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Mary Dowling’s induction into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame is long overdue. In 1903, she took over the family distillery and went on to defy Prohibition by legally moving her operations to Juárez, Mexico. Often referred to as the “Mother of Bourbon,” Dowling not only kept whiskey flowing during turbulent times, she also supported her local community and helped lay the foundation for modern bourbon culture. This recognition not only celebrates her legacy but also opens the door for others. Full story here.
3. Barrell Releases a 20 Year Old Bourbon Finished in Rum Casks
Details here
Barrell Craft Spirits continues its run of highly sought-after limited editions with a new 20-year-old bourbon. This expression is finished in three types of rum casks (Jamaican, Martinique, and agricole-style), adding layers of tropical sweetness and spice to a deeply aged core. Bottled at 53.45% ABV and priced at around $200, it’s limited to just 250 bottles and aimed squarely at collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate adventurous finishes. This one’s going fast. See the release here.
4. Chicken Cock Marks One Year of Circa 1856 in Bardstown
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Chicken Cock is celebrating the first anniversary of its Circa 1856 venue in Bardstown—a modern visitor experience built on historic roots. The all-female leadership team has turned the space into a full-fledged Bourbon Trail destination, complete with on-site distilling, tasting rooms, and live events. To mark the occasion, the brand is releasing a special Reserve Cask single barrel bottling available only at the venue. It’s a nod to tradition and progress in equal measure. More here.
5. Green River Launches U.S. Army 250th Anniversary Bourbon
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Green River Distilling has teamed up with the U.S. Army to release a special-edition bourbon celebrating the military’s 250th anniversary. The whiskey was dropped—literally—into Fort Liberty by parachute during an official ceremony. Bottled at 111.1 proof, the bourbon is a 4-to-7-year-old wheated small batch with a profile of caramel, baking spice, and dark chocolate. It’s available in limited quantities, with special engraved editions for veterans and active duty personnel. Patriotic? Absolutely. But also well-crafted. Full coverage here.
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