Brown-Forman has announced the launch of its 2026 King of Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon, a limited-edition release marking a significant moment in US history. The collection commemorates the 250th anniversary of the United States, alongside the founding of Kentucky County, Virginia, which would later become the Commonwealth of Kentucky.

For the first time, King of Kentucky will be released as a three-batch series, with each batch bottled at a different strength to showcase the nuances developed during long-term maturation: Batch 1 at 52.5% ABV (105 proof), Batch 2 at 53.75% ABV (107.5 proof), and Batch 3 at 55% ABV (110 proof).

Each batch is composed of barrels aged between 12 and 18 years. Several casks experienced an exceptionally high angel’s share, with as little as 16% of liquid remaining after years of evaporation.

First created in 1881, King of Kentucky takes its name from thoroughbred horse racing, long known as the Sport of Kings. The brand has been owned by Brown-Forman since 1936 and was revived in 2018, quickly establishing itself as one of the most sought-after bourbons on the secondary market.

King of Kentucky Batch 1: is described as offering sweet aromatics of chocolate, caramel and toasted marshmallow, balanced by dried apricot and clove. The palate reveals smooth oak and toasted coconut, leading to a silky, shorter finish.

King of Kentucky Batch 2: is said to deliver dark fruit notes of dates and fig, layered with caramel and charred oak. Minty nuances and hints of vanilla follow, culminating in a longer, crisp finish.

King of Kentucky Batch 3: is described as delivering aromas of rich chocolate and brown sugar, lifted by citrus and pine. Bold oak and spice dominate the palate, culminating in the longest and most oak-forward finish of the trio.

Commenting on the launch, Chris Morris, Brown-Forman Master Distiller Emeritus, said: “For years, I’ve held on to these rare, aged barrels, waiting for a moment significant enough to share them. To celebrate the founding of our country with a whiskey of this calibre feels like the perfect tribute.”

Produced in limited quantities, the 2026 King of Kentucky Small Batch will be available in select markets across the US. RRP: $299.00 per bottle.