Batch 22 Marks New Era for Oxnard-Based Distillery.
Oxnard, California’s Sespe Creek Distillery has announced the release of Batch 22, the first bourbon blended entirely under the direction of John Campbell, the legendary former Laphroaig Master Distiller. This new release joins the distillery’s Warbringer Southwest Bourbon collection, marking a milestone less than a year after Campbell’s appointment.
Crafted with Mesquite-Smoked Corn and Malted Rye
Batch 22 stays true to Sespe Creek’s signature smoked whiskey style. The bourbon features a mash bill of mesquite-smoked Bloody Butcher heirloom corn, roasted corn, and malted rye, yielding a layered and distinctly Southwestern flavor profile.
A total of 726 cases of Batch 22 will be released in mid-November, available through select retailers including Total Wine and Bristol Farms in California, Goody Goody in Texas, and select stores in Tennessee and Washington state. Consumers may also purchase directly from the distillery’s website at WarbringerBourbon.com for a suggested retail price of $55.
Tasting Notes Highlight Complex Layers of Smoke and Sweetness
Batch 22 opens with aromas of cherry, dark chocolate, leather, smoke, and graham cracker, along with hints of pumpernickel bread. The palate delivers carrot cake, maple bacon, maraschino cherry, and cocoa, followed by notes of root beer, black licorice, and pink peppercorn. The finish lingers with peanut brittle, tobacco, and mesquite smoke, resulting in a bold, dry close.
Campbell Aims for Balance and Enhanced Mouthfeel
“The main aim for Batch 22 was to increase the mouthfeel and the way it engaged with the drinker’s palate, and to beef up the flavors at the back end of the taste experience,” said John Campbell, Master Distiller. “To do this we introduced some of the oldest bourbon we have on site, added some red corn bourbon to the recipe and some experimental sour mash bourbon to improve the overall balance of the liquid for the consumer.”
Honoring Americana Heritage Through Craft
Founded with a dedication to craftsmanship and Americana heritage, Sespe Creek Distillery is known for going “the extra mile” in both flavor and production. Each spirit is designed to evoke a sense of place and time, with an emphasis on smoked whiskey and bold, expressive character.
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