Nearly everyone can say the pandemic affected them in some way. A healthcare worker looking for hobbies to help him escape the long hours and stressful days of Covid-19, Zane Brammell discovered bourbon. Enter New Era Whiskey.

Brammell’s pursuit was not just collecting bottles, but joining the community of enthusiasts that shared his passion. In 2022, Zane founded his first single-barrel club, selecting exclusive barrels to share with members. Two years later, he expanded his club into a full-fledged brand: New Era.  

Today, Zane and co-founder Matt Hobbs are releasing their first bourbons to stores in Kentucky, a trio of cask-strength single barrel bourbons honoring three of Kentucky’s most iconic natural landmarks: Nature’s Crossing at Natural Bridge (115 proof); Dark Wonders at Mammoth Cave (113.8 proof); and Magic Moonbow at Cumberland Falls (115 proof). 

Each of the single-barrel offerings was aged eight years, bottled at cask strength, and will be available only at retail stores throughout the state of Kentucky. Suggested retail price is $99 per 750 mL. In honor of Kentucky’s state parks and natural wonders, New Era Whiskey Company is donating $3,000 to the Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund. 

“These three barrels are exceptional, and I’m thrilled to share them with bourbon fans across the state. Previously, our single barrel bottlings have only been available as private club picks. I’m happy to reach this milestone, with retail accessibility across Kentucky,” Brammell said in a news release. “And we’re proud to give back to Team Kentucky’s Storm Relief Fund to help flood victims.” 

“It’s great to celebrate the success of Lexington’s New Era Whiskey, while also recognizing the positive impact they’re making as they live out our Team Kentucky values of lifting up our neighbors,” said Gov. Andy Beshear. “I want to thank Zane, Matt and the entire team for their support of Kentucky State Parks and for their donation to our storm relief fund, which will make a difference in the lives of survivors across our commonwealth.”    

Kentucky State Parks Commissioner Russ Meyer adds, “Our Kentucky State Parks and bourbon industry play a significant role in Kentucky’s $14.3 billion tourism industry, so it’s exciting to see New Era Whiskey fuse the two. Throughout challenging times and natural disasters, our state parks have been a refuge for Kentuckians in need. We are pleased that a portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Team Kentucky Storm Relief Fund.” 

New Era Whiskey’s Kentucky trio of bourbons honoring Kentucky’s State Parks goes on sale in retail stores throughout Kentucky the week of Sept. 6th. 

Read more: Top 100 American Whiskeys of 2024 Ranked

About New Era Whiskey and Spirits

From small towns in Kentucky with humble roots, two whiskey connoisseurs embarked on a journey to create a tribute to tradition reimagined for a new generation. New Era is a whiskey that honors the traditions of craftsmanship and storytelling while moving into a new era with intention. Every pour is a nod to the past and the publisher of our stories today and tomorrow. For more information visit https://www.newerawhiskey.com.