King of Kentucky Bourbon: A Complete Guide
Some brand names have a story so rich they feel like a piece of history. The King of Kentucky name dates all the way back to 1881, where it enjoyed a long reign as a respected straight bourbon. But like many historic brands, its story took a turn, and it was discontinued in 1968, fading into memory for half a century. Then, in 2018, the legendary Brown-Forman distillery decided to revive the king. They didn't just bring back the name; they resurrected it as an ultra-premium, single-barrel expression of their oldest and finest stocks. Every bottle is a connection to that deep heritage, offering a taste of a legacy reborn for today's most discerning whiskey drinkers.
Key Takeaways
- A Historic Brand Reimagined: King of Kentucky is a 19th-century brand revived by Brown-Forman as a highly limited, annual release. Each bottle is a single-barrel, barrel-proof bourbon, offering a unique and undiluted snapshot of one specific cask.
- Its Quality Comes from Patience and Purity: The bourbon's exceptional character is a result of its long aging process—often 17 years or more. Because it's bottled at barrel proof without dilution, you get to experience its most authentic, complex, and powerful flavors.
- Prepare for a Hunt and a Premium Price: With only a few thousand bottles released globally each year, this bourbon is incredibly rare. While its suggested retail price is around $399, its scarcity and high demand often place its market value much higher, making it a true collector's item.
What Is King of Kentucky Bourbon?
If you’ve spent any time exploring the world of American whiskey, you’ve likely heard whispers of King of Kentucky. It’s one of those bottles that commands attention, a true heavyweight in the bourbon scene. But what exactly is it? King of Kentucky is a super-premium, limited-edition Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey revived by the legendary Brown-Forman Corporation. It’s not just another bottle on the shelf; it’s a piece of history, meticulously crafted and released in highly anticipated, small-batch offerings each year.
This bourbon represents a return to a historic brand, reimagined for today’s most discerning drinkers. Each release is a single-barrel expression, meaning the whiskey in your bottle comes from one individual barrel, never blended with others. This makes every bottle a unique snapshot of a specific moment in time and aging. Known for its impressive age statements and high, barrel-proof strength, King of Kentucky is a bold, complex, and incredibly rewarding pour. It’s the kind of rare find that collectors dream of and enthusiasts savor for special occasions. Understanding its story is key to appreciating what makes it so exceptional.
The Story Behind the Name
The King of Kentucky name has a rich and layered history that dates all the way back to 1881, when it was first introduced as a straight bourbon. For decades, it enjoyed a solid reputation. In 1936, the brand was purchased by Brown-Forman, one of the most respected names in American spirits. Sometime after the acquisition, the company changed the recipe, turning it into a blended whiskey—a more common and less premium style at the time. This version of King of Kentucky continued for a while, but its reign eventually came to an end when it was discontinued altogether in 1968, seemingly fading into the pages of whiskey history.
How Brown-Forman Revived a Legend
For 50 years, the King of Kentucky brand lay dormant. Then, in 2018, Brown-Forman decided it was time for a royal comeback. Drawing from their impressive and aging whiskey stocks, they revived the brand, not as the blended whiskey it had become, but by returning it to its original glory as a Kentucky Straight Bourbon. This modern iteration, however, is far more ambitious than the original. It was reborn as an annual, highly-limited release of some of the distillery's oldest and finest barrels. This strategic revival transformed a forgotten name into one of the most sought-after whiskies on the market today.
A Legacy Since 1881
The revival of King of Kentucky taps directly into the deep, storied tradition of Kentucky bourbon. Bourbon from this region is celebrated worldwide for its unique character, shaped by limestone-filtered water, hot summers, and generations of distilling mastery. By bringing back a brand with roots in the 19th century, Brown-Forman isn't just selling a product; they are offering a connection to that rich heritage. Each bottle embodies the history and craft that make Kentucky the undisputed heartland of American whiskey, making it a powerful symbol of both tradition and the highest standards of modern distilling.
What Makes King of Kentucky So Special?
In a world filled with incredible whiskey, it takes something truly exceptional to stand out. King of Kentucky isn’t just another bourbon on the shelf; it’s a masterclass in patience, craftsmanship, and tradition. From the moment it’s distilled to the final hand-applied wax seal, every step is designed to create a one-of-a-kind experience.
What sets this bourbon apart is its unwavering commitment to quality over quantity. It’s a celebration of the individual barrel, showcasing how unique each one can be. The combination of its impressive age, barrel-proof bottling, and meticulous hand-finishing makes it one of the most coveted releases each year. For those who appreciate the finer details, King of Kentucky represents the pinnacle of American whiskey, a true collector's item that you'll find among other rare and hard-to-find spirits. Let’s look at the specific qualities that make it reign supreme.
It's a True Single Barrel Bourbon
The term "single barrel" gets used a lot, but King of Kentucky embodies its truest meaning. Each bottle is drawn from one individual barrel, and that’s it. Unlike small-batch bourbons, where multiple barrels are blended to create a consistent flavor profile, a single barrel release is a snapshot in time. It captures the unique character and nuances that one specific barrel imparted on the whiskey inside. This means no two barrels of King of Kentucky will ever taste exactly the same. One might have notes of rich caramel and dark chocolate, while another might lean into spicy oak and dried fruit. This uniqueness is what makes every bottle a genuine treasure for collectors and enthusiasts.
Aged for at Least 17 Years
Patience is more than a virtue in the bourbon world; it’s an essential ingredient. King of Kentucky is aged for a minimum of 17 years in new, charred oak barrels. This extended time allows the spirit to interact with the wood, pulling out deep, complex flavors and developing a rich, dark color. Over nearly two decades, the bourbon mellows and matures, shedding its harsh edges and gaining an incredible depth of character. This long aging process is what creates its signature notes of dark caramel, tobacco, and leather, resulting in a smooth, sophisticated profile that simply can’t be replicated with younger whiskies. It’s a testament to the idea that the best things are worth waiting for.
Bottled Straight from the Barrel
King of Kentucky is a barrel-proof bourbon, which means it’s bottled at the exact proof it was when it came out of the barrel. There’s no water added to dilute it, so you get to experience the whiskey in its purest, most potent form. This process preserves the full intensity of its flavors and aromas, offering a robust and powerful tasting experience. While the proof can be quite high, it delivers an unadulterated profile that connoisseurs seek out. It’s the closest you can get to tasting bourbon straight from the source in the rickhouse, providing an authentic and memorable sip every time.
Finished by Hand with a Wax Seal
The craftsmanship of King of Kentucky extends all the way to its packaging. Each bottle is filled, labeled, and numbered by hand, reinforcing its artisanal quality. The finishing touch is a meticulous wax seal, carefully applied to each bottle. This isn't just for looks; it’s a symbol of the care and attention to detail that defines the entire process. This hands-on approach ensures that every bottle is a unique piece of art, perfect for display or as an unforgettable present. It’s this level of dedication that makes it an ideal choice for corporate gifts or for marking a special occasion.
What Does King of Kentucky Taste Like?
Every bottle of King of Kentucky offers a unique tasting experience, but they all share a remarkable depth and complexity that comes from years of patient aging. Because it’s a single barrel bourbon, no two releases are exactly alike, which is part of the fun. However, you can expect a consistently rich and layered profile that tells the story of its time in the barrel. Let’s walk through the typical notes you might discover when you pour a glass of this exceptional whiskey.
Aroma: What You'll Smell First
Before you even take a sip, King of Kentucky makes a grand entrance. The aroma is immediately inviting, often starting with rich, sweet notes of spiced candied walnuts and dark chocolate. You might also pick up hints of mulled red wine and even a surprising touch of bubble gum. If you let the bourbon sit in the glass for a few minutes, it will continue to open up, revealing deeper layers. These can include sophisticated scents of toasted hazelnut, charred oak from the barrel, and the comforting aroma of pipe tobacco. It’s a complex bouquet that promises a memorable tasting experience.
Palate: The Experience of the First Sip
That first sip is where the bourbon truly comes alive. The flavor profile is bold and well-defined, often leading with a distinct note of cocoa powder. This is quickly followed by a wave of complementary flavors like sweet brown sugar, syrup-soaked raisins, and a hint of cherry cola. A gentle warmth from cinnamon syrup ties everything together beautifully. What’s most impressive is how these powerful flavors blend so harmoniously on the palate. Each note is clear and present, creating a balanced and deeply satisfying sip that stands out even among other premium spirits.
Finish: How the Flavors Linger
The "finish" is the lingering taste left after you swallow, and King of Kentucky’s is long, warm, and incredibly pleasant. It leaves you with a clean, fruity, and almost floral essence, which is beautifully complemented by a light toasted oak flavor. One of the most remarkable things about this bourbon is that it doesn't have the dry, tannic sensation that you might expect from a spirit that has been aged for so long. Instead, the finish is smooth and satisfying, encouraging you to take your time and savor the moment.
Uncovering Its Complex Notes
As you continue to sip, you’ll uncover even more of its intricate character. The overall experience is a journey through layers of flavor. You might find notes of dry leather and strong, aged oak, which speak to its maturity. These are often balanced by spiced dark fruits, cinnamon, and a touch of nutmeg. Many releases also feature a spicy kick from the rye in the mash bill, which adds another dimension to the taste. This complexity is what makes King of Kentucky one of the most rare and hard-to-find bourbons on the market—it’s a truly fantastic spirit worth exploring.
How Rare Is King of Kentucky?
When you hear bourbon lovers talk about their "white whale" bottles, King of Kentucky often comes up. Its rarity isn't just hype; it's a core part of its identity. Getting your hands on a bottle is a genuine challenge, which makes the experience of tasting it even more rewarding. The scarcity comes down to a few key factors: extremely small production runs, the unique nature of each bottle, and a fascinating history that adds to its allure.
A Look at the Limited Production Numbers
To understand just how limited this bourbon is, let's look at the numbers. A recent release, for example, consisted of just 63 barrels, yielding around 5,000 bottles for the entire world. To put that in perspective, major distilleries produce millions of bottles of their flagship products each year. This tiny batch size means that only a select few retailers ever receive an allocation, and it sells out almost instantly. This isn't a bottle you'll find gathering dust on a shelf; it's a highly anticipated annual release that collectors and enthusiasts plan for well in advance.
Why Every Single Bottle Is Unique
Beyond the small quantity, each bottle of King of Kentucky offers a distinct tasting experience. That's because it's a true single barrel bourbon. Unlike most whiskeys that are blended from many barrels to create a consistent flavor profile, the contents of your bottle come from one, and only one, barrel. This means every bottle carries the unique characteristics imparted by its specific cask. It's also bottled at barrel strength, so it isn't diluted with much water before bottling. This preserves the bourbon's most authentic and powerful flavors, just as they were when the distiller tasted it straight from the source.
The Significance of Its Revival
The story behind King of Kentucky adds another layer to its rarity. The original brand was discontinued in 1968, fading into bourbon history for half a century. When Brown-Forman brought it back in 2018, it wasn't just a relaunch; it was the revival of a legend. This 50-year gap makes each modern release feel like a special event, connecting drinkers to a bygone era of American whiskey. Because it was gone for so long, the revived King of Kentucky has become a symbol of heritage and craftsmanship, making it one of the most coveted rare finds on the market today.
How Much Does King of Kentucky Cost?
A bourbon with this much history and craftsmanship naturally comes with a premium price tag. But what should you actually expect to pay for a bottle of King of Kentucky? The cost can vary quite a bit depending on where you find it, but understanding the baseline price and its market value will help you know if you've found a good deal. Let's break down the numbers.
Understanding the Retail Price
The official suggested retail price (MSRP) for a bottle of King of Kentucky is $399. This price is set by the producer, Brown-Forman, and reflects the bourbon's exceptional quality, limited availability, and extensive aging process. Think of it as the baseline cost. Finding a bottle at this price is considered a major score for any bourbon enthusiast. Due to its rarity and the intense demand, many retailers mark it up significantly. So, while $399 is the official price, it’s more of a starting point in the wild world of bourbon hunting.
How It Compares to Other Aged Bourbons
The $399 price point firmly places King of Kentucky in the ultra-premium category, alongside other highly sought-after aged spirits. In fact, the price saw a 33% increase from its previous release, jumping from about $300. This signals its growing prestige in the market. When you consider its 17-year maturation, the cost makes sense. Aging a whiskey for that long requires immense patience, warehouse space, and acceptance of losing a significant portion to evaporation—the "angel's share." Its price is comparable to other bourbons and whiskies that boast similar age statements and limited production runs.
Its Value as a Collector's Item
For collectors, King of Kentucky is more than just a fantastic drink; it's a serious investment. If you're lucky enough to buy a bottle at its retail price, you've found something truly special. On the secondary market, where collectors buy, sell, and trade, a bottle can fetch nearly $2,000. This incredible jump in value is driven by its scarcity and stellar reputation. It's a centerpiece for any serious collection and a bottle that many enthusiasts dream of adding to their shelves. This makes it one of the most desirable rare finds in the bourbon world today.
Where Can You Find King of Kentucky?
Given its extremely limited release, finding a bottle of King of Kentucky can feel like a treasure hunt. Each year, only a small number of barrels are selected, making this one of the most elusive bourbons on the market. But don't let that discourage you—with a bit of strategy and persistence, you can increase your chances of adding this exceptional whiskey to your collection. The key is knowing where to look and who to ask.
The search often begins with trusted retailers known for their premium selections. From there, expanding your network and staying informed about release dates can make all the difference. Let’s walk through a few reliable places to start your search and some tips to help you along the way.
Explore the Selection at Main Street Liquor
Your first stop should be right here with us. At Main Street Liquor, we pride ourselves on curating a thoughtful collection of premium spirits, and that includes tracking down highly allocated bourbons. While we can't guarantee King of Kentucky will always be on the shelf due to its rarity, we are constantly updating our inventory with unique and high-quality bottles. We recommend you frequently explore our bourbon selection online to see what’s new. Our commitment to sourcing exceptional spirits means we’re always on the lookout for gems like this one for our customers.
Other Authorized Retailers to Check
If you’re on the road or want to expand your search, it helps to know which other retailers have a reputation for a great bourbon inventory. If you find yourself in Kentucky, stores like Liquor World in Bardstown are known for their extensive collections and are often a reliable place to check for limited releases. Similarly, specialty shops like Art Eatables in Louisville sometimes carry rare bottles alongside their bourbon-infused chocolates. Visiting these well-regarded stores can be a great way to find what you're looking for, especially if you happen to be near the heart of bourbon country.
Tips for Finding a Bottle
When hunting for a bottle as rare as King of Kentucky, a little extra effort goes a long way. Don’t overlook smaller, independent liquor stores, as they can sometimes receive an allocation and have less foot traffic than larger chains. Engaging with online bourbon communities and forums can also provide valuable leads, as members often share tips on where to find rare bottles. Above all, be persistent. Check in with your favorite retailers regularly, build a relationship with the staff, and be ready to visit a few different locations. The thrill of the chase is part of the experience of collecting rare finds.
What to Know Before You Buy
Getting your hands on a bottle of King of Kentucky is an exciting moment, and knowing a few key details can make the experience even better. Before you pour that first glass, understanding what makes this bourbon unique will help you appreciate every sip. From its proof to its age, each element tells a part of its story and contributes to its incredible character. Let’s go over a few things that will help you get the most out of your bottle.
What "Barrel Proof" Really Means
You'll often see the term "barrel proof" or "cask strength" on high-end bourbons, and King of Kentucky is a perfect example. This simply means the bourbon is bottled at the same proof it was when it came out of the barrel, without being diluted with much, if any, water. The result is a much stronger, more intense spirit with a rich and complex flavor profile. Because it’s not watered down, you get to taste the whiskey in its purest form, exactly as the master distiller intended. It’s a bold experience, but one that truly showcases the quality of the spirit.
How to Properly Store and Serve It
How you store and serve your King of Kentucky can make a big difference. Keep the bottle upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to preserve its flavors. When it comes to serving, remember that the location of the barrel in the warehouse plays a huge role in the final taste. Warmer upper floors speed up aging, creating bolder notes, while cooler lower floors slow it down for more subtlety. To fully appreciate these nuances, try sipping it neat at first. Then, add a few drops of water or a single large ice cube to see how the flavors open up and evolve in the glass.
Why the Age Statement Matters
The age on the bottle is more than just a number—it’s a promise of depth and complexity. The 2025 release, for example, is a 17-year-old bourbon, and you can really taste those years of maturation. Each bottle of King of Kentucky is a unique snapshot in time, complete with details like its exact age, proof, warehouse location, and barrel number. Master Distiller Chris Morris hand-selects each barrel, ensuring every bottle tells its own story. This transparency is part of what makes it one of the most sought-after rare finds for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Why Is King of Kentucky So Sought-After?
It’s no secret that King of Kentucky is one of the most talked-about bourbons on the market. Its appeal comes from a perfect storm of rarity, exceptional craftsmanship, and a deep-rooted history that commands respect. This isn't just another whiskey; it's a piece of bourbon history that you can hold in your hand. For both seasoned collectors and passionate drinkers, getting a bottle is a significant event. Let's break down exactly what makes this particular bourbon a true treasure in the world of fine spirits.
The Allure of a Limited Release
One of the biggest drivers of King of Kentucky's popularity is its extreme scarcity. Each release is incredibly limited; for instance, the 2025 release consists of only about 5,000 bottles. This isn't a marketing gimmick—it's a genuine reflection of the small number of barrels that meet the master distiller's exacting standards. This rarity turns every release into a major event, creating excitement among bourbon enthusiasts. For collectors, securing a bottle is like finding a hidden gem, making it a prized possession in any collection.
The Master Distiller's Touch
The hands-on craftsmanship behind King of Kentucky sets it apart. Every single barrel is personally selected by Master Distiller Chris Morris, who ensures only the most exceptional bourbon makes the cut. This isn't a large-scale, automated process. Each bottle is filled, wax-dipped, and numbered by hand, giving it a personal touch you can feel. This meticulous attention to detail guarantees a level of quality that’s hard to find. It’s a testament to the dedication behind the brand and a major reason why this barrel-strength bourbon is so highly regarded.
A Reputation for Quality and Craft
King of Kentucky has a legacy that stretches back to 1881, when it was first introduced as a premium straight bourbon. While it disappeared for a time, its revival by Brown-Forman brought back that original commitment to excellence. Today, it’s known for its incredible depth and complexity. The 2025 release, a 17-year-old single barrel, is a perfect example, offering rich and beautifully balanced flavors. This unwavering dedication to quality has cemented its reputation as a benchmark for aged bourbon and one of the most anticipated annual releases.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the taste of King of Kentucky vary from bottle to bottle? Because King of Kentucky is a single barrel bourbon, each bottle comes from one individual cask. Think of each barrel as having its own personality, shaped by its specific location in the warehouse and the unique qualities of the wood. This means no two barrels will ever produce an identical-tasting whiskey, which is what makes every bottle a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
What does "barrel proof" mean for how I should drink it? Barrel proof means the bourbon is bottled at its full, undiluted strength, which can be quite high. To best appreciate its complex flavors, I recommend starting with a small, neat pour. After your first sip, try adding a few drops of water or a single large ice cube. This can help open up the aroma and soften the intensity, allowing different notes of caramel, oak, and spice to come forward.
Is King of Kentucky a good investment for a collector? Absolutely. Due to its extremely limited annual production and the meticulous craftsmanship behind each bottle, King of Kentucky is highly sought-after on the secondary market. Its value often increases significantly after its initial release, making it not just a fantastic bourbon to drink but also a centerpiece for any serious whiskey collection.
How can I increase my chances of actually buying a bottle? Persistence is key. Since so few bottles are released, your best bet is to build a relationship with your favorite local and online retailers, like us at Main Street Liquor. Check our rare spirits section often, sign up for newsletters, and don't be shy about asking if an allocation is expected. Being proactive is the best way to be in the right place at the right time.
What makes this bourbon different from other highly-aged bourbons? While many bourbons have impressive age statements, King of Kentucky stands out because of its single barrel, barrel-proof nature combined with the specific touch of Brown-Forman's Master Distiller. Each release is a hand-selected snapshot of a single barrel's journey, offering a pure and unblended taste of some of the distillery's finest and oldest stocks, which is a unique combination in the ultra-premium market.