The Jackalope Returns: High West Announces 2026 Bourye with Elevated Proof

PARK CITY, Utah (March 3, 2026) – High West Distillery has officially unveiled the 2026 rendition of its cult-classic limited release, Bourye. This unique “premium blend of bourbon and rye” returns this year with a significant update: an elevated proof designed to better showcase the maturity of its 10 to 19-year-old components.+1

Often referred to as the “Jackalope” of the whiskey world—a mythical creature that is part jackrabbit, part antelope—Bourye is a meticulously crafted marriage of straight bourbon and straight rye whiskeys. The 2026 release leans into the decadence of long-term maturation, offering a profile that balances rustic spice with dessert-like sweetness.+1

What’s New for the 2026 Release?

For the first time in recent years, High West has re-evaluated the ABV for this expression. The 2026 Bourye is bottled at 50.5% ABV (101 Proof), a step up intended to highlight the elegance and complexity of the whiskeys, all of which have aged for a minimum of a decade.

“The 2026 Bourye release features an elevated ABV which highlights the elegance and complexity of its 10+ year‑old whiskeys while preserving the decadent flavor developed through extended aging. We re-evaluated Bourye in 2026 to better showcase the elegance and complexity of its 10+ year‑old whiskeys. With the rich, decadent flavor that emerges in whiskey over long maturation, this blend can boldly embrace a higher proof while maintaining balance, depth, and approachability. In a nod to the jackalope – our region’s most charming trickster – we hope this release brings something unexpected and extraordinary to your glass.”

The Blend & Tasting Profile

The 2026 Bourye utilizes four distinct mash bills, combining sourced liquid from MGP with High West’s own pot-still rye:

Bourbon Components: 75% corn/21% rye/4% malt and 60% corn/36% rye/4% malt.
Rye Components: 95% rye/5% malt and an 80% rye/20% malted rye (HWD).

Sensory Experience:

Nose: Candied lemon and apricot jam on shortbread meets caramel macarons and pfeffernüsse spice cookies.
Palate: A complex journey of grilled peaches, chocolate-covered haystacks, and brown sugar bacon, grounded by black licorice and sarsaparilla.
Finish: Sticky toffee pudding paired with a warming ginger tea.

Product Details & Availability

Age: A blend of 10 to 19-year-old whiskeys.
Proof: 101 (50.5% ABV).
Filtration: Non-chill filtered; no added flavors.
MSRP: $124.99.
Availability: National Limited Release.

Pro Tip: High West recommends enjoying Bourye neat or with a splash of water, preferably around a campfire under the Milky Way. Ice is not recommended for this particular expression.

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.