Set to launch in July 2026, the cask-strength release showcases Bulleit’s signature 95% rye mashbill after two decades of maturation.
Bulleit Frontier Whiskey is expanding its premium whiskey portfolio with the release of Bulleit 20-Year-Old Straight Rye Whiskey, the oldest rye whiskey ever released by the brand. Limited to just 1,776 individually numbered bottles, the ultra-aged expression celebrates both America’s historic rye whiskey tradition and Bulleit’s role in helping revive the category over the past several decades.
Bulleit Pays Tribute to America’s Original Whiskey Grain
Before bourbon became America’s signature whiskey style, rye whiskey dominated early American distilling traditions. Bulleit’s latest release highlights that heritage while honoring the grain that helped establish the foundation of American whiskey production.
The release also serves as a nod to Bulleit’s longstanding commitment to rye whiskey. The brand’s Bulleit 95 Rye became a staple among bartenders and whiskey drinkers during the category’s resurgence, helping fuel renewed interest in high-rye American whiskey.
With only 1,776 bottles produced, the limited release references a significant year in American history while focusing squarely on the whiskey itself.
Twenty Years of Aging Creates a Rare Cask-Strength Rye
Bulleit 20-Year-Old Straight Rye was distilled in Lawrenceburg, Indiana, using the brand’s signature 95% rye mashbill before aging for two decades in Kentucky warehouses. Throughout the extended maturation process, barrels were carefully monitored to preserve rye’s distinctive spice character while allowing additional layers of complexity to develop.
The whiskey was developed by the Bulleit Distilling Co. team, with barrel selection and blending led by Nicole Austin, Director of American Whiskey Liquid Development and Capabilities at Diageo.
“With a rye this mature, the challenge is finding barrels where age adds depth without overwhelming the grain,” Austin said. “We wanted the spice and structure that define Bulleit Rye to stay front and center, while allowing twenty years of maturation to reveal new layers of complexity. The final whiskey has the spice people expect from Bulleit, with a depth that could only come from time.”
Tasting Notes Highlight Oak, Spice, and Dark Fruit
Bottled at cask strength, the whiskey arrives at 68.5% ABV (137 proof). According to the brand, the nose opens with aromas of seasoned oak, warm baking spices, and dried fruit.
On the palate, drinkers can expect layers of caramelized sweetness, dark fruit, and rye spice, leading to a long and complex finish that maintains the grain-forward character that has defined Bulleit Rye since its introduction.
Limited Availability Begins July 2026
Bulleit 20-Year-Old Straight Rye Whiskey will be available beginning in July 2026 through the Bulleit Distillery and select markets nationwide. The suggested retail price is $299 per 750ml bottle.
With an allocation of only 1,776 bottles, the release joins the growing list of highly collectible ultra-aged American whiskeys and represents one of the most ambitious rye whiskey projects in Bulleit’s history.
Bulleit Continues Expanding Its Premium Whiskey Portfolio
The launch follows a broader trend across the whiskey industry toward older age-stated expressions and limited-edition releases. While rye whiskey has historically been associated with younger, spice-forward profiles, Bulleit’s latest offering demonstrates how extended maturation can add depth and complexity while preserving the grain’s defining character.
For collectors and rye whiskey enthusiasts, the release offers a rare opportunity to experience a 20-year-old expression built around one of America’s most iconic rye mashbills.
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