King of Kentucky Bourbon Returns with 14-Year Aged Single Barrel Release

LOUISVILLE, Ky., Oct. 1, 2026 /CourierPR/ -- King of Kentucky, a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey that has been out of production for nearly six decades, is set to return in 2026. The release, issued on October 1, 2026, by King of Kentucky, details the return of the brand with a high-proof single barrel expression aged for 14 years. The release notes that this year's release is drawn from two 14-year-old lots, totaling 99 barrels, with proofs ranging from 125 to 135. Of the 99 barrels selected, 51 matured on the third floor of Warehouse I and 48 matured on the first floor of Warehouse L at the Brown-Forman Distillery.

The 2026 expression offers a fruit-forward aroma with notes of orange zest, rich caramel, dark chocolate, and toasted marshmallow layered over balanced, nutty oak character. On the palate, dark maple syrup coats layers of orange zest, vanilla wafers, and a touch of baked banana. The finish is exceptionally long, with silky-smooth notes of caramel and chocolate. All bottles are filled, bottled, wax-dipped, and numbered by hand and presented inside a custom canister. Each bottle provides details including the proof, age, warehouse location, lot number, serial number, and barrel number. This year's King of Kentucky is available in limited quantities in select markets nationwide for a suggested retail price of $399.

Established in 1881 as a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, King of Kentucky was one of the most sought-after bottles in American whiskey from Brown-Forman. In 1936, Brown-Forman acquired the brand from Selected Kentucky Distillers and discontinued it in 1968. In 2018, Brown-Forman revived the label, paying homage to the brand's past, and continues the tradition today with this high-proof expression. The company, Brown-Forman Corporation, has been building exceptional spirits brands for more than 150 years, responsibly upholding its founding promise of "Nothing Better in the Market." The company's portfolio includes brands such as Jack Daniel's, Woodford Reserve, The Glendronach, Benriach, Glenglassaugh, Herradura, El Jimador, Chambord, Gin Mare, and Diplomatico Rum, with a team of approximately 5,400 employees worldwide.

The return of King of Kentucky underscores Brown-Forman's commitment to its heritage and its ability to create premium expressions that resonate with whiskey enthusiasts. The company's dedication to quality and tradition is evident in the meticulous selection and aging process, which culminates in a whiskey that is both a tribute to the past and a testament to the future of the brand.