The Walking Dead Kentucky Straight Bourbon Rises To Retail

Spirits giant Diageo is one that has a lot of aging whisk(e)y on both sides of the Atlantic. One way to make use of some of it, it seems, is through tie-ins to popular television shows. We’ve seen this through their multiple Game of Thrones Scotch whisky offerings, and now things turn to Kentucky bourbon with the debut of the The Walking Dead Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.

The Walking Dead Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is something we first took note of a number of months ago when a bottling label was approved for it by the TTB. What we have here is a whiskey, done in partnership with Skybound Entertainment (a “multiplatform content company” bringing the hit television show across a range of different mediums), that is non age statement in nature and bottled at 94 proof. Each clear glass bottle is “marked ‘safe-zone approved’ with a label that bears the comic’s trademark logo and sealed cork with an ‘RGrimes’ signature of authenticity.”

“The Walking Dead comic book series changed the game and launched a post-apocalyptic genre that continues to attract a massive, enthusiastic fan base,” said Dave McNulty, Senior Director of Culture, Entertainment and Partnerships at Diageo North America, in a prepared statement. “In partnering with Skybound Entertainment, we saw the opportunity for a new whiskey their adult fan base would covet.”

This bourbon is the first under the new “Sprits of the Apocalypse” label, which is the name of the joint venture between Diageo and Skybound. It is said there will be future releases in the series, though what they are and when they will be released was not mentioned. As for this expression, it is limited edition and should be hitting retail now for a price point of around $35. You’ll find some official tasting notes and suggested cocktails below for your consideration.

This well-balanced bourbon features notes of rye and the essence of vanilla. With a soft caramel nose and aroma of orchard fruit, The Walking Dead Whiskey is smooth, spicy and finishes with a light nuttiness, lingering sweetness and pleasant warmth. It’s best enjoyed neat, on the rocks or in a number of delicious cocktails, including Maggie’s “Lemonade” (bourbon, lemonade and peach tea garnished with mint and grilled peaches) and the Old Man Rick (bourbon, bitters and simple syrup served on the rocks with a lemon and orange twist).

Maggie’s “Lemonade”
1.25 oz The Walking Dead Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
2 oz Lemonade
2 oz Peach Tea
Glass: Pint
Garnish: Mint & grilled peaches
Directions: Add all ingredients into a Pint glass filled with ice, gently stir and garnish.

Old Man Rick
1.25 oz The Walking Dead Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
1 dash aromatic bitters
½ teaspoon simple syrup
Glass: Rocks
Garnish: Lemon & orange twist
Directions: Add all ingredients into a rocks glass Add three ice cubes and stir 20 seconds to chill cocktail and dilute the whiskey. Add two more ice cubes and garnish.