KENTUCKY OWL, a part of Stoli Group, announced the release of its newest expression, Batch #13, available now throughout the U.S. in limited quantities. The expression is the final bourbon blend created by former Master Blender and Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame inductee John Rhea prior to his retirement.

Batch #13 showcases a blend key components from multiple barrels to create a spirit with a special character and high proof. Each of KENTUCKY OWL’s batch releases is uniquely different with no specific parameters for blending.

Rhea created Batch #13 by blending a collection of five different bourbons comprised primarily of eight-year-old and nine-year-old barrels. The more mature and higher rye bourbons bring a richness and depth to the final blend, while the combination of younger and wheated whiskies add a layer of zest and freshness.

KENTUCKY OWL named Rhea Master Blender in 2021 following his induction into the Kentucky Bourbon Hall of Fame in 2016. It is the highest honor given in the industry and is presented during the annual Kentucky Bourbon Festival. Beginning his career as an engineer with an MBA, his contributions to the bourbon industry spanned nearly 50 years and includes 17 years serving on the Kentucky Distillers’ Association’s Board of Directors.

“During my tenure at KENTUCKY OWL, I’ve had the honor of sampling some of the world’s finest bourbon barrels. Batch #13 is my tribute to the craftsmanship of blending by showcasing how a combination of very different barrels come together to create a very special expression,” Rhea said in a news release. “This juxtaposition of mature higher rye bourbons balanced with lighter wheated barrels results in a very special flavor profile that highlights each barrel’s finest notes.”

KENTUCKY OWL Batch #13 is presented at 56.8% ABV with a suggested retail price of $399 for a 750ml bottle. The limited-edition expression will be available beginning in July in select locations nationwide and online through Reserve Bar and Flaviar.

Read more: Stoli Group U.S., Kentucky Owl File for Bankruptcy

About Kentucky Owl

Stoli Group, a global spirits and wine company, purchased KENTUCKY OWL in 2017. Originally founded by C.M. Dedman in 1879, the Kentucky Owl Bardstown distillery went dark during the Prohibition era and remained dormant until the brand was revived in 2014. Since then, the company’s small batch releases have sold out quickly and received strong reviews. For more information, visit kentuckyowlbourbon.com.