King of Kentucky announced its 2026 release: King of Kentucky Small Batch. This limited-edition collection celebrates a historic moment: the 250th anniversary of the United States and the creation of Kentucky County, Virginia, which became the State of Kentucky. 

King of Kentucky, created in 1881, is named in honor of thoroughbred horse racing, known as “The Sport of Kings.” Brown-Forman has owned the brand since 1936 and revived it in 2018. It has become one of the most sought-after bottles in whiskey.

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

For the first time, King of Kentucky introduces a three-batch series, each bottled at  a distinct proof to showcase the complexity of its aging process:

● Batch 1: 105 proof 

● Batch 2: 107.5 proof 

● Batch 3: 110 proof

Each batch is a blend of barrels aged 12–18 years. Some barrels had exceptionally high angel’s share, with just 16 percent liquid after years of evaporation. King of Kentucky Small Batch will be available in limited quantities for a suggested retail price of $299 in select markets nationwide.

This release differs from the traditional Single Barrel expression, which will continue annually in the fall. The Small Batch series was crafted at the historic  Brown-Forman Distillery in Shively, Kentucky (DSP-KY-354). 

Read more: Brown-Forman Reports Financial Results

About Brown-Forman 

Brown-Forman Corporation has been building spirits brands for more than 150 years. The portfolio of premium brands includes the Jack Daniel’s Family of  Brands, Woodford Reserve, The Glendronach, Benriach, Glenglassaugh, Herradura,  El Jimador, Chambord, Gin Mare, and Diplomatico Rum. With a team of approximately 5,400 employees worldwide, the company distributes beverages in more than 170 countries. For more information, visit brownforman.com.