Castle & Key launches new 6-Year-Old Small Batch Bourbon that is winning awards already!
FRANKFORT, KY – July 8, 2025 – Castle & Key Distillery, rooted in the storied history of Kentucky whiskey, proudly announces the release of Castle & Key 6-Year-Old Small Batch Bourbon (50.5% ABV, $39.99 SRP, 750ml). This bold, mature expression embodies time, patience, and unparalleled craftsmanship. Available now at the distillery in Frankfort, KY, the Castle & Key 502 retail store in Louisville, KY, and online at castleandkey.com, this bourbon is a testament to the distillery’s legacy and innovation.
Award-Winning Excellence
The Castle & Key 6-Year-Old Small Batch Bourbon has already garnered prestigious accolades in 2025, securing Gold Medals from:
- The American Spirits Council of Tasters (ASCOT) Awards
- New York International Spirits Competition
- International Wine & Spirits Competition
These honors highlight the bourbon’s exceptional quality, depth, and complexity, solidifying Castle & Key’s reputation for producing world-class Kentucky spirits.
A Legacy Reborn at Old Taylor Distillery
Housed on the historic grounds of the Old Taylor Distillery, Castle & Key is a beacon of reinvention. In 2022, the distillery introduced its first bourbon, a 4-year-old expression, marking the first bourbon distilled and released on-site in nearly 50 years. The new 6-Year-Old Small Batch Bourbon represents a significant evolution, showcasing richer flavors and meticulous blending after years of careful aging.
“The Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon 6-Year-Old release is more than a milestone in age,” says Brett Connors, Lead Blender, Castle & Key Distillery. “It represents Castle & Key’s philosophy of building quality from the ground up and every drop of our spirits since day one have been made within the castle walls, from still to barrel to bottle. The 6-year bourbon reflects our commitment to consistency, flavor, and complexity. The whiskey might have been resting for the past six years, but our research and distilling team haven’t rested a day.”
Tasting Notes: Castle & Key 6-Year-Old Small Batch Bourbon
- ABV: 50.5% (101 Barrel Proof)
- SRP: $39.99 (750ml)
- Mashbill: 73% white corn, 10% rye, 17% malted barley
- Nose: Graham cracker, butterscotch, red apple, honeysuckle, clove
- Palate: Molasses, golden raisin, golden apple, toffee, orange zest, praline, cinnamon
- Finish: Shortbread tailing off into candied orange peel, cacao nib, and white pepper
As praised by the ASCOT 2025 Awards panel:
“Castle & Key Small Batch Bourbon has been resting for 6 years, and its full maturity offers enhanced depth, consistency, and complexity. A nice brown sugar and graham cracker nose leading to a palate featuring cranberries, and pomegranate, wrapped in a chewy mouthfeel. Really unique and fun bourbon!”
The Castle & Key Experience
Located at the historic Old Taylor Distillery, founded in 1887, Castle & Key blends tradition with innovation. Restored in 2014 by Co-Founder Will Arvin, the distillery—once in ruins—now thrives as a premier destination for bourbon enthusiasts and history lovers. Designed by renowned fine gardener Jon Carloftis, the site features stunning gardens, historic architecture, and immersive tours and tastings.
The distillery’s core portfolio includes annual releases of Small Batch Bourbon, Restoration Rye Whiskey, Sacred Spring Vodka, and Roots of Ruin Gin, alongside limited-time seasonal and distillery-exclusive offerings. Led by Head Blender Brett Connors, the team continues to push boundaries with innovative maturation techniques and a commitment to quality.
Listen to Bourbon Lens on your favorite podcast app or stream on Spotify. If you’d like to support Bourbon Lens, join our Patreon, sign up for our “Weekly Pour” Newsletter, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X.
Recent Bourbon Lens Coverage
- Rebel Bourbon & NASCAR’s Richard Childress Racing Extend Partnership for 2026
- Bardstown Bourbon Company Launches Bold Packaging Redesign Across Core Portfolio
- New Riff Balboa Rye Review: A Creamy, Fruity Rye to Watch in 2026
- Exploring the World of Whiskey and Bourbon on Bourbon Lens’ “Thursday Thoughts”
- Maker’s Mark Unveils New Premium Bottle and Age Statement for Cask Strength Bourbon
- 366: From r/bourbon to Middleburg Barrel Company with Jay West (T8ke)
