Pursuit Spirits Adds Old Anvil Bourbon to Mellwood Legacy Collection

Old Anvil is the third expression in the distillery-exclusive Mellwood Legacy Collection.

Founded by Kenny Coleman and Ryan Cecil of the Bourbon Pursuit podcast, the Louisville-based brand continues its focus on blending innovation with respect for whiskey history.

From Early Misstep to Rare Release

In 2019, Coleman and Cecil acquired four barrels with a 70/21/9 mash bill from a Kentucky distillery. At five years old, the whiskey revealed flavors of grass and hay rather than the anticipated richness. Initially considered a setback, the barrels were stored and largely forgotten. Years later, at 11 years old, the whiskey had developed complexity with balanced oak and nutty characteristics, prompting its release under the Old Anvil label.

Inspired by Louisville Whiskey Heritage

Old Anvil takes its name from a historic label once bottled by General Distillers in Louisville. The bourbon is bottled at cask strength (119.4 proof) and offers layered tasting notes, including aromas of root beer float, honeysuckle, and orange marmalade. The palate delivers orange-vanilla cola, Madagascar vanilla bean, and fig biscuit, while the finish highlights cinnamon-vanilla frosting, candied orange, oak, and allspice.

“Old Anvil is proof that time can change everything,” said Ryan Cecil, Pursuit Spirits Master Blender and CEO. “We once thought these barrels were a mistake, but years later, they became something truly remarkable.”

Distillery-Exclusive Offering

Old Anvil will be available beginning August 28 at Pursuit Spirits’ newly opened Whiskey Row location in Louisville. The limited release is offered in 375mL bottles at a suggested retail price of $99.99. A limited number of cases will be sold daily, though booking the Mellwood Past & Present experience guarantees access while supplies last. Pursuit Spirits has emphasized that once this one-time release is gone, it will not return.

Photo Credit: Pursuit Spirits

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