15 STARS has unveiled a new single barrel program under its First West line, offering retailers, restaurants and private groups exclusive barrel selections. The debut releases feature Kentucky bourbons aged between six and 10 years, available from the Bardstown, Kentucky-based brand from November 2026.
The program gives participants access to the range of aged Kentucky-distilled whiskey that 15 STARS uses to create its portfolio.
The collection spans various mash bills, ages, cooperages, and maturation styles. It includes bourbons with rye and wheat flavoring grains, alongside a growing stock of proprietary heirloom-corn bourbons distilled by 15 STARS.
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READ THE STORYParticipants will take part in a guided tasting of preselected barrels before choosing the expression that best fits their palate and customers.
Each pick offers partners a limited-quantity bourbon that will not be repeated.
“We believe every barrel plays an important role in creating our award-winning blends, but a rare few possess the character to stand on their own,” said Rick Johnson, co-founder of 15 STARS. “Through our single barrel program, we’re able to showcase these exceptional barrels and give whiskey enthusiasts the opportunity to experience what makes each one truly unique.”
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The first releases will appear in First West’s antique blue bottle design, inspired by the earliest Kentucky-made glass bottles used for bourbon.
Each selection will be bottled at cask proof. The brand will apply minimal filtration to remove only barrel char, preserving the whiskey’s individual character.
The program is rolling out through select private barrel partners, with further opportunities planned as it expands.
15 STARS was founded by father-and-son team Rick and Ricky Johnson, who built the brand around sourcing and blending aged Kentucky whiskey. Single barrel programs have become an increasingly popular route for US craft and sourced-whiskey brands, allowing retailers and bars to secure bespoke, one-off expressions for their customers.
