Stitzel-Weller Distillery debuts Reserve series
Diageo-owned Stitzel-Weller Distillery has unveiled the first release in its new exclusive Stitzel Reserve series.
The new series is dedicated to distillery-exclusive bottlings, beginning with a 24-year-old Kentucky straight Bourbon.
Located in Louisville, Kentucky, the distillery was established in 1935 and is considered part of American whiskey history as the former home to WL Weller, Old Fitzgerald, and Pappy Van Winkle Bourbons.
The distillery was mothballed in 1992, and the brands found homes elsewhere.
Stitzel-Weller was reopened in 2014 after restoration by Diageo as the Bulleit Frontier Whiskey Experience.
Today, the distillery is home to brands Blade & Bow, IW Harper, and Orphan Barrel.
The new Stitzel Reserve series will be a platform to bring aged liquid from precious archival barrels to the distillery visitors.
The inaugural Stitzel Reserve 24-Year-Old release is said to honour Stitzel-Weller Distillery’s 90-year legacy, envisioned by Nicole Austin, director of American whiskey liquid development and capabilities for Diageo.
Drawn from nine barrels laid down in 1999 and selected by Austin, the release is limited to only 191 bottles at 61.7% ABV.
Pricing of the 750ml bottle will be available upon request at the distillery.
Austin said: “At Stitzel-Weller Distillery, we are fortunate to have inherited some of the most remarkable ageing barrels in the country. The launch of Stitzel Reserve is a pivotal moment for our distillery. It’s a celebration of the past and a bold step forward.
“This exceptional 24-year-old Kentucky straight Bourbon whiskey has spent decades maturing under careful supervision, developing a profile rich with notes of cracked leather, saddle oil, and burnt sugar. It embodies the craftsmanship and dedication that define Stitzel-Weller Distillery.”
Each release in the collection will be highly limited, with no predetermined schedule.
The inaugural bottling is available at the distillery for consumers over 21 years from June 2025.
Individual serves of the new whiskey are also available through a tasting experience at the Garden & Gun Club at Stitzel-Weller Distillery, which includes an etched whiskey glass with a branded bag and a limited edition distillery pin with purchase.
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