Ultra-Limited Kentucky Bourbon Celebrates American Innovation and Exploration
Jefferson’s Bourbon is commemorating America’s 250th anniversary with the release of Founder’s Reserve 20-Year-Old, one of the rarest expressions ever produced by the brand. Limited to just 250 individually numbered and signed bottles, the Kentucky Straight Bourbon is aged for two decades before receiving a finishing period in French Bordeaux wine casks, creating an exclusive release that celebrates both American history and Jefferson’s spirit of innovation.
The release pays tribute to the curiosity and exploration that have defined Jefferson’s Bourbon since its founding while drawing inspiration from the brand’s namesake, Thomas Jefferson. In 1787, Jefferson traveled through France’s Bordeaux region while serving as the United States Minister to France, seeking new ideas and techniques that would influence America’s future. Jefferson’s Bourbon says Founder’s Reserve reflects that same pioneering mindset by combining a mature Kentucky bourbon with the influence of French wine casks.
A 20-Year-Old Bourbon Finished in French Bordeaux Casks
Founder’s Reserve begins with a 20-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon that develops exceptional depth through two decades of maturation. The whiskey is then finished in a French Bordeaux wine cask, adding another layer of complexity while softening the finish.
Bottled at 94 proof (47% ABV), the bourbon offers layers of dark fruit, aged oak, and rich maturity developed through extended aging. According to Jefferson’s, the Bordeaux cask contributes additional elegance and balance while complementing the whiskey’s long finish.
Trey Zoeller Reflects on the Historic Release
Jefferson’s Founder Trey Zoeller said the limited release honors both America’s 250th anniversary and the longstanding relationship between the United States and France.
“We’re proud to raise a glass to America’s 250th anniversary with this Founder’s Reserve release, inspired by our namesake Thomas Jefferson and the enduring alliance between the United States and France,” Zoeller said. “To honor that historic partnership, we selected a rare 20-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon and finished it in a French Bordeaux wine cask, bringing together two great traditions in one remarkable whiskey. The result is a beautifully balanced, elegant spirit that celebrates craftsmanship, innovation, and the shared history that helped shape our nation.”
Limited to Just 250 Bottles
Jefferson’s Founder’s Reserve 20-Year-Old will be available beginning June 30, 2026, through Jefferson’s Bourbon and select retailers nationwide. Only 250 bottles will be produced, each individually numbered and signed, with a suggested retail price of $499.99 per 750 mL bottle.
The release joins Jefferson’s portfolio of boundary-pushing bourbons, which includes the brand’s Ocean Aged at Sea series and other experimental maturation projects that have helped establish Jefferson’s reputation for innovation within the American whiskey category.
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