Overview: Bardstown Bourbon Company has introduced two new limited fall releases for 2026, marking a strategic shift in its production lineup. The 2026 Discovery and Lochs of Jura Barrel Finish represent the first annual iterations of their respective series, featuring original artwork by Louisville artist Margaret Archambault.
The Full Story
The brand has transitioned the Discovery Series from numbered editions to annual releases while expanding its Finishing Series with global collaborations. Each bottle features commissioned artwork inspired directly by the liquid’s aroma, flavor, and texture. These releases are available nationwide in limited quantities beginning August 21, 2026.
Production & Profile
To create 2026 Discovery, a blend of three bourbons aged 7, 10, and 11 years were rested for four months in Garryana oak barrels. Each barrel was custom-made and hand toasted for three hours by Oregon Barrel Works to unlock additional layers of spice and complexity. Summer aging was chosen for maximum extraction, and the whiskey was then gradually proofed to 112.8 proof (66.4% ABV) before bottling. The recipe includes Indiana and Kentucky bourbons with mashbills of 75% corn, 21% rye, 4% malted barley for the 10-year and 11-year components, and 74% corn, 16% rye, 10% malted barley for the 7-year component. The whiskey exhibits aromas of toasted oak, burnt sugar, and baked apple cobbler. The palate exhibits notes of dried cherry and cinnamon bark, leading to a long, warming finish accented by the distinctive influence of Garryana oak.
Lochs of Jura Barrel Finish utilizes a bespoke blend of straight bourbon and rye whiskey finished for 32 months in Single Malt Scotch Whisky barrels from the Isle of Jura. The casks are composed of 84% ex-bourbon and 16% ex-Sherry. The finished whiskies were then married and bottled at 104 proof (52% ABV). The recipe includes Indiana 11-year bourbon, Indiana 10-year rye whiskey, and Kentucky 12-year bourbon with mashbills of 75% corn, 13% rye, 12% malted barley. Aromas include vanilla crème with blackberry compote and mint surrounded by toasted oak and cigar box. The palate exhibits notes of fresh spearmint, caramel, and light cinnamon spice. It concludes with fruit-forward sherry notes that round out a beautifully complex finish.
What This Means
The shift from numbered to annual releases signals a move toward consistent seasonal availability for the Discovery Series. Simultaneously, the expansion of collaborations with spirits producers globally indicates a broadening scope for the Finishing Series.
Consumer Takeaway
Available nationwide in limited quantities beginning August 21, 2026. Suggested retail price is $139.99 per 750 mL bottle.
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