Stitzel-Weller Distillery has unveiled Stitzel Reserve, a new collection of rare, distillery-exclusive bourbon releases that debuts with a 24-year-old Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey. The historic Louisville distillery plans to use this platform to showcase precious archival barrels from its 90-year legacy.
The inaugural release represents a significant milestone for the distillery, which has operated as what many consider the “cathedral of bourbon” since opening on Derby Day in 1935. Only 191 bottles comprise this first release.
Stitzel Reserve 24 Year Old Showcases Distillery Heritage
Nicole Austin, Director of American Whiskey Liquid Development and Capabilities for Diageo, personally selected and blended the 24-year-old bourbon from just nine barrels. The expression demonstrates the quality possible when exceptional barrels receive decades of careful stewardship in Stitzel-Weller’s historic warehouses.
“At Stitzel-Weller Distillery, we are fortunate to have inherited some of the most remarkable aging barrels in the country,” Austin said. “The launch of Stitzel Reserve is a pivotal moment for our distillery. It’s a celebration of the past and a bold step forward.”
The official tasting notes describe a complex profile featuring cracked leather, saddle oil, and burnt sugar developed through decades of maturation. Austin emphasized that this bourbon “embodies the craftsmanship and dedication that defines Stitzel-Weller Distillery.”
Future Releases Promise Continued Rarity
Stitzel Reserve operates without a predetermined release schedule, instead focusing on liquid quality and peak maturity as determining factors. Each future release will maintain the series’ commitment to rarity and limited quantities.
The distillery positions this series as more than a new label, describing it as a tribute to both the barrels and bourbon legacy that preceded it. The approach reinforces Stitzel-Weller’s role as a custodian of exceptional whiskey while showcasing the best offerings from its historic warehouses.
Consumers aged 21 and older can purchase the 24-year-old bourbon exclusively at the distillery beginning in June 2025. The distillery also offers individual pours through a bespoke tasting experience at the Garden & Gun Club, which includes an etched glass, branded bag, and limited edition pin. Pricing for the 750ml bottle is available upon request at the distillery location.
The series launch marks a new chapter for the distillery, which reopened to the public in 2014 after closing following its original 1935-1992 production run. Located just five miles from downtown Louisville, Stitzel-Weller remains one of the most accessible stops on the Kentucky Bourbon Trail.
Stitzel-Weller is home to brands such as Blade & Bow, Orphan Barrel, and I.W. Harper.
Read the full article at Stitzel-Weller Unveils Rare Bourbon Series, Available Only At The Distillery
