Kentucky Owl Unveils Batch #13 Bourbon
BARDSTOWN, Ky., July 1, 2025 – Kentucky Owl®, part of Stoli Group, proudly announces the release of Batch #13, a limited-edition bourbon available nationwide in select locations starting late June 2025. This exceptional expression marks the final blend crafted by Master Blender and Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame inductee John Rhea before his retirement.
A Tribute to Bourbon Blending Artistry: Crafting Batch #13
Batch #13 exemplifies the art and science of bourbon blending, with no fixed parameters, allowing each release to showcase a unique flavor profile. John Rhea, who joined Kentucky Owl as Master Blender in 2021, created this expression by combining five distinct bourbons, primarily eight- and nine-year-old barrels. The mature, higher-rye bourbons contribute richness and depth, while younger, wheated whiskeys add zest and freshness, resulting in a high-proof spirit at 56.8% ABV.
“During my tenure at KENTUCKY OWL®, I’ve had the honor of sampling some of the world’s finest bourbon barrels. Batch #13 is my tribute to the craftsmanship of blending by showcasing how a combination of very different barrels come together to create a very special expression,” said John Rhea. “This juxtaposition of mature higher rye bourbons balanced with lighter wheated barrels results in a very special flavor profile that highlights each barrel’s finest notes.”
Tasting Notes for Batch #13
• Nose: Sweet vanilla with hints of chocolate, followed by fresh citrus, orange, and mango aromas. Vanilla and caramel reinforce the bourbon’s inviting character.
• Palate: Soft vanilla richness, followed by a vibrant rush of citrus, highlighted by orange and grapefruit.
• Finish: Lingering vanilla and caramel with pleasant citrus notes and a subtle hint of chocolate in a soft finish.
John Rhea’s Illustrious Career
A Bourbon Industry Legend
Inducted into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame in 2016, John Rhea’s nearly 50-year career includes 17 years on the Kentucky Distillers’ Association Board of Directors. With an engineering background and an MBA, Rhea brought a unique blend of technical precision and artistry to his role as Kentucky Owl’s Master Blender since 2021. His final creation, Batch #13, stands as a testament to his legacy.
Availability and Pricing
Priced at $399 for a 750ml bottle, Kentucky Owl Batch #13 is a collector’s item, available in July 2025 at select retailers nationwide and online through Reserve Bar and Flaviar. Visit kentuckyowlbourbon.com for more details.
About Kentucky Owl
Founded in 1879 by C.M. Dedman, Kentucky Owl operated until Prohibition in 1916. Revived in 2014 by Dedman’s great-great-grandson, Dixon Dedman, the brand was acquired by Stoli Group in 2017. Known for its small-batch, high-proof bourbons and ryes, Kentucky Owl has earned acclaim for releases like the Takumi Edition, St. Patrick’s Edition, and The Wiseman. The brand’s limited-edition batches consistently sell out, driven by word-of-mouth enthusiasm.
About Stoli Group
Established in 2013, Stoli Group is a global leader in ultra-premium spirits and wines, with iconic brands like Stoli® Vodka, Kentucky Owl™, elit™ Vodka, Bayou® Rum, and Cenote™ Tequila. Its wine portfolio includes prestigious labels like Archaval Ferrer™ and Arinzano™. Headquartered in Luxembourg, Stoli Group operates production facilities across Argentina, Latvia, Spain, and the U.S., collaborating with 200 distributors in over 176 markets. Visit stoli-group.com for more information.
DRINK RESPONSIBLY. Stoli Group USA, LLC, New York, NY. © 2025.
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