(Credit: Diageo)
Blade and Bow has lifted the curtain on a 30 Year Old Cask Strength Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, the second expression in its distinguished 30-Year-Old collection. Following the 2025 debut of Blade and Bow 30-Year-Old Limited Release Bourbon, this exceptionally rare offering presents the same extraordinary whiskey at its natural barrel strength of 164.2 proof (82.1% ABV), without dilution. Its defining distinction lies not simply in a higher proof, but in the opportunity to experience the whiskey in its original form, providing a canvas for connoisseur experimentation. The introduction of Cask Strength comes alongside the highly anticipated return of Blade and Bow 30-Year-Old Limited Release, offering collectors and whiskey enthusiasts a rare opportunity to experience the same remarkable blend through two distinct expressions.
First laid to rest in the spring of 1993, the bourbon spent much of its maturation journey within the historic rickhouses of Stitzel-Weller Distillery, where decades of seasonal temperature fluctuations and careful stewardship shaped its exceptional character. As the natural effects of evaporation gradually diminished the liquid, partially filled barrels were carefully consolidated to preserve the remaining whiskey. From an original collection of 96 barrels, Nicole Austin, Diageo’s Director of American Whiskey Liquid Development, selected just 42 to create a singular blend that would ultimately yield two distinct expressions.
Presented in a custom-made leather box, Blade and Bow 30-Year-Old Cask Strength is limited to just 1,200 bottles, which will be made available intermittently, carrying a suggested retail price of $2,500 per 750ml bottle. Initially, the bottles will be available in highly limited quantities across select markets beginning November 2026, with some of the 1,200 bottles reserved for later release. Stitzel-Weller Distillery in Shively, Kentucky, will serve as the first retail destination, offering a limited initial volume of 25 bottles by reservation only. Reservations will become available on November 16, for bottle pickup later in the month. Additional bottles of Blade and Bow 30-Year-Old Cask Strength will also be made available through periodic limited drops at Stitzel-Weller Distillery throughout the holiday season.
The returning Blade and Bow 30-Year-Old Limited Release Bourbon will first be available at Stitzel-Weller Distillery, with just 30 bottles for sale on October 30, 2026. This will be followed by limited availability in select markets and periodic limited drops at Stitzel-Weller Distillery. Visitors will also have the opportunity to experience both 30-Year-Old expressions through dedicated tasting experiences that include custom keepsake glassware at the distillery’s Garden & Gun Club and through 1-oz. pour serves on the menu.
