2019 Yellowstone Limited Edition Bourbon Bubbles Up At Nearly $100

Kentucky’s Limestone Branch Distillery, among its whiskey offerings, has various bottlings under its historic Yellowstone brand. One of these is an annual limited edition offering that has occurred so far in 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2018. Now, for 2019, it returns once again as an older expression.

The 2019 Yellowstone Limited Edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon, according to those behind it, includes for this year what’s described as “a hand-picked selection of the most unique barrels – those hidden gems in the rick house – including barrels of extra-aged nine-year and 12-year Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.” 9 years is the age statement on the bottle, and it clocks in at 101 proof (50.5% ABV).

“I tasted many quality, mature Kentucky Straight Bourbons in order to find the right two ages for this year’s release – I had a certain taste profile in mind and I sought those barrels that matched it,” said Steve Beam, head distiller at Limestone Branch Distillery, in a prepared statement. “The barrels I chose were in different parts of the rick house and each barrel’s unique location contributed to the taste profile and complexity of this bourbon. When combined, these extra-aged bourbons create a mature and complex bourbon with robust spice and oaky undertones.”

As it stands now plans call for approximately 12,500 750 ml bottles, each nestled in commemorative tubes, to be made available for around $100 per bottle. Very limited official tasting notes suggest “cinnamon notes with toffee, dried fruit and a hint of citrus to the palate, followed by a dry finish of brown sugar and oak.”

Limestone Branch, for those unfamiliar with it, was opened by Beam and his brother Paul Beam in 2011 with the goal of “crafting the finest whiskey in small batches, honoring their long family heritage. With a history of distilling on both sides of their family – Beam and Dant – the brothers are seventh-generation distillers.”