Wheel Horse Barrel Master Select Batch 1 Whiskey Drops

A New Chapter in Kentucky Bourbon

Wheel Horse Whiskey has introduced a groundbreaking release with its Barrel Master Select Batch 1, a bold addition to the world of Kentucky bourbon. This limited-edition whiskey, distilled and matured in Owensboro, Kentucky, represents the brand’s first foray into barrel-proof small-batch production. With only 2,100 bottles available, this 5-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon, bottled at an impressive 112.6 proof, is already creating a stir among whiskey lovers. Crafted by Barrel Master Stephen Corrigan, it highlights the rich heritage and craftsmanship of one of Kentucky’s most historic distilleries.

The Legacy of Green River Distilling

The story of this bourbon begins at Green River Distilling, a legendary facility established in 1885. Located at the westernmost edge of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, this site has been a cornerstone of whiskey-making tradition for over 130 years. It has weathered Prohibition, changes in ownership, and even a fire. Today, under the careful guidance of Corrigan, Wheel Horse is reviving this storied location. The Barrel Master Select Batch 1 is a tribute to that legacy, combining 12 hand-selected barrels of 5- to 6-year-old bourbon to create a whiskey that is both powerful and approachable.

A Commitment to Authenticity

What distinguishes this bourbon is its dedication to authenticity. Bottled without chill filtration, it preserves the full depth of its character, offering a sipping experience that is as raw and unfiltered as Kentucky itself. At 56.3% ABV, it is not for the faint of heart, but it is crafted to balance boldness with versatility. Corrigan, who has led Wheel Horse since its inception in 2019, aimed to create a whiskey that honors the brand’s signature 101-proof roots while pushing the boundaries with an uncut, unfiltered expression.

A Flavorful Journey

When you take a sniff, the nose is greeted by a burst of cherry, mocha, and warm spices that invite you in. On the palate, it takes you on a rich journey through decadent flavors—think toffee, vanilla, and the creamy smoothness of café au lait. The finish lingers like a warm Kentucky evening, with notes of toasted walnut, burnt sugar, and a nod to Black Forest cake that leaves you wanting another sip. It's the kind of whiskey that demands a slow pour, a good glass, and maybe a quiet porch to savor it on.

Exclusivity and Availability

With only 2,100 bottles produced, this release is as exclusive as it gets. Priced at a suggested retail of $39.99, it's a steal for a barrel-proof bourbon of this caliber, making it a must-have for collectors and casual sippers alike. Available online nationally and in select markets, it's already generating buzz, with future releases in the Barrel Master Select series—including a Kentucky Straight Rye expected this fall—promising more to come.

A Growing Reputation

Wheel Horse’s journey began in 2020, when its flagship 101-proof bourbon earned a spot in Whisky Advocate’s Top 20 Whiskies of 2021. Distilled at Green River and batched and bottled at Wheel Horse’s headquarters in Rhode Island, the brand has built a reputation for quality and consistency. This new release, however, elevates the game, showcasing the distillery’s ability to craft small-batch whiskeys that stand toe-to-toe with Kentucky’s heavy hitters.

A Love Letter to Bourbon Tradition

For those who appreciate the romance of bourbon—the history, the craft, the stories etched into every barrel—Barrel Master Select Batch 1 is a love letter to Kentucky’s whiskey tradition. It's a chance to taste the past and the future in one glass, a sip of Owensboro’s enduring spirit. Whether you're opening a bottle to share with friends or saving it for a special occasion, this bourbon delivers a flavor and experience worth seeking out. Grab one while it lasts, because at 2,100 bottles, it won’t be around for long. For more details or to snag a bottle, visit wheelhorsewhiskey.com or follow @wheelhorsewhiskey on Instagram.