BARDSTOWN, KY (July 7, 2026) – Barton 1792 Distillery today announced two historic additions to its award-winning whiskey portfolio: 1792 Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, the brand’s first-ever straight rye expression, and 1792 XV, a highly allocated 15-year-old cask-strength bourbon that stands as the oldest expression in the collection to date.
As Bardstown’s oldest continuously operating distillery, Barton 1792 continues to build on its nearly 150-year legacy. These milestone releases follow massive critical acclaim at the 2026 Denver International Spirits Competition, where 1792 Full Proof was named the highest-rated spirit overall, earning the competition’s solitary Platinum Award.
1792 Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey
Marking the brand’s first foray into the permanent rye category, this 100-proof expression introduces a bold, spice-forward counterpart to 1792’s legendary bourbon lineup. Master Distiller Ross Cornelissen utilized the brand’s signature bourbon yeast to introduce a subtle fruit-forward sweetness that perfectly balances a complex, globally sourced blend of rye grains from Canada, Europe, and the northern United States.
- Tasting Notes: Opens with warm baking spices and spiced fruit jellies, leading to a palate of assertive rye spice, cinnamon candy, and rich molasses. The finish is long and structured with lingering mulling spices and gentle sweet oak.
- Pricing & Availability: Available now in select domestic markets through Sazerac’s distributor network at an approachable suggested retail price of $39.99 (750ml).
1792 XV (Fifteen Years Old)
Representing the apex of the brand’s maturation program, 1792 XV is a 15-year-old bourbon bottled uncut and unfiltered at 124.2 proof. This expression marks the brand’s inaugural cask-strength age-stated release, building upon the footprint of 1792 Aged Twelve Years with three additional years of extended wood interaction.
- Tasting Notes: Rich aromas of sweet cola, leather, and vanilla extract yield a deep palate of dark cherries and cocoa, finishing with heavily integrated oak and dark caramel.
- Pricing & Availability: Presented in a premium 1-liter glass bottle with the brand’s signature gold stopper, 1792 XV is launching exclusively via Global Travel Retail (GTR) at select international airports—including LAX, SFO, and Incheon (ICN)—at a suggested retail price of $249.99.
In Their Words
“Refining and reimagining our whiskey-making process has opened the door to new flavor possibilities,” says Tyler Smith, Brand Director of 1792. “With these releases, we continue to grow the 1792 brand, building on our nearly 150-year legacy while expanding the portfolio in ways that excite both longtime fans and new whiskey enthusiasts.”
“We felt the rye reached its peak at 100 proof. Here, the whiskey showcases a seamless integration of rye spice, oak and yeast influence,” says Ross Cornelissen, Master Distiller, Barton 1792. “Many seasoned bourbon drinkers turn to rye when they’re ready to explore something new. With 1792 Bourbon’s high-rye mash bill, this release offers fans a familiar spice profile with a recognizable rye character.”
“This release wasn’t part of a planned experiment in barrel-proof whiskey,” Master Distiller Cornelissen adds. “We noticed that several of our oldest barrels were developing extraordinary characteristics, with flavors and nuances that stood out on their own. That discovery inspired us to do something special, which ultimately led to the creation of XV.”
For more information regarding the new portfolio expansions, visit www.1792bourbon.com.
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