King of Kentucky has announced a line extension for 2026.
Brown-Forman has announced the King of Kentucky Small Batch Collection in recognition of the 250th anniversary of the United States. The limited-edition release marks a notable evolution for the brand, which has traditionally been offered as a highly sought-after single barrel expression.
Founded in 1881 and owned by Brown-Forman since 1936, King of Kentucky was revived in 2018 and has since become one of the most coveted names in American whiskey. For this commemorative release, the brand introduces a small batch format for the first time, crafted at the historic Brown-Forman Distillery in Shively, Kentucky (DSP-KY-354).
The 2026 Small Batch Collection consists of three distinct batches, each bottled at a different proof to highlight the influence of aging and barrel selection. Batch 1 is bottled at 105 proof, Batch 2 at 107.5 proof, and Batch 3 at 110 proof. Each batch is a blend of barrels aged between 12 and 18 years, with some barrels experiencing extreme evaporation, leaving as little as 16 percent of the original liquid.
The three-batch Small Batch Collection showcases distinct expressions of mature King of Kentucky bourbon. According to the brand, Batch 1 (105 proof) presents sweet aromatics of chocolate, caramel, and toasted marshmallow with hints of dried apricot and clove, leading to smooth oak and toasted coconut on the palate. Batch 2 (107.5 proof) leans into darker fruit notes of date and fig layered with caramel and charred oak, complemented by mint and vanilla. Batch 3 (110 proof) delivers the boldest profile, featuring rich chocolate and brown sugar accented by citrus and pine, followed by pronounced oak, spice, and the longest, oak-forward finish of the trio.
“For years, I’ve held onto these rare, aged barrels, waiting for a moment significant enough to share them,” said Chris Morris, Brown-Forman Master Distiller Emeritus. “To celebrate the founding of our country with a whiskey of this caliber feels like the perfect tribute.”
King of Kentucky Small Batch will be available in limited quantities in select markets nationwide at a suggested retail price of $299 per bottle. The brand confirmed that its traditional annual Single Barrel release will continue in the fall.
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