Blue Note Bourbon Releases 2026 Special Reserve 9-Cask Blend

MEMPHIS, TN (March 16, 2026) – Blue Note Bourbon®, the award-winning Memphis-based whiskey portfolio, has announced the launch of its third-annual Special Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey. This limited-release expression pushes the boundaries of blending, featuring a marriage of nine distinct finishing casks from Kentucky and Tennessee.

The 2026 Special Reserve is an unfiltered, high-proof blend (119 proof / 59.5% ABV) utilizing bourbons ranging from 5 to 19 years old. The complex finishing process includes casks previously holding Cognac, Madeira, Sherry, Port, Vino de Naranja, Vanilla Cognac, Apricot Brandy, and Winter Bock.

“Each year, we evaluate a wide range of variants before selecting the blend that best showcases how the barrels have evolved and the distinct character each cask contributes,” said Logan Welk, President & COO of B.R. Distilling Company. “Every release is crafted to explore the outer limits of blending, while ensuring the integrity of our high-quality bourbon base remains at the forefront—complementing, rather than overpowering, the nuanced influence of each cask.”

Tasting Profile: The nose offers light molasses, dry cedar, and gentle clove. The palate is rich and savory, leading with warming spice and cedar before unfolding into dried apricot, allspice, and vanilla. It concludes with a comforting, lingering finish.

Approximately 2,100 bottles are available now via BlueNoteBourbon.com and in select U.S. states for a suggested retail price of $149.99.

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