For the team at Kentucky Peerless Distilling Co., April 22, 2026, wasn’t just another Wednesday. It was the culmination of a ten-year promise. When Corky and Carson Taylor revived the brand in 2013, it was about quality over quantity. They waited for this moment for 10 plus years.
This week on the podcast, we are joined by Peerless Master Taster John Waddell to celebrate the fruit of that labor—the Henry Kraver’s Old Reserve 10-Year Bourbon.
The Specs
- Age: 10 Years
- Proof: 117.6 (Barrel Proof)
- Process: Sweet Mash, Non-Chill Filtered
- MSRP: $195
The Sweet Mash Difference
John explains that the Peerless “signature” comes from their commitment to the Sweet Mash process. While most Kentucky distilleries use sour mash (recycled backset) for consistency, Peerless starts every fermentation with a fresh slate. This results in a brighter, cleaner distillate that—even at 10 years and high proof.
Tasting the Milestone
This is everything think you want in a 10 year bourbon. Don’t miss what Scott and Jake have to say about this potential whiskey of the year candidate.
The Verdict
Is it worth the $195 price tag? If you value transparency, quality, and a spirit that has never been diluted or sourced, the answer is a resounding yes. Peerless has officially moved from a “craft favorite” to a heavyweight in the aged Kentucky Bourbon category.
Listen to the full interview with John Waddell on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube.
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