Rathskeller Revival is designed for patience. Patience is an understatement for these barrels. I originally purchased them at 14-years and 6-months. We barreled two of these barrels for our first 15-year release in 2022. But, I couldn't help but wonder what they would taste like with some additional age. So I waited. At the same time, the idea to revive the Rathskeller label started to come together. We needed a powerhouse bourbon to back up this legendary label. Thankfully, shortly after 18-years these barrels hit a sweet spot. The bourbon was like a reduced sauce after so many years of aging. They were rich, sweet, and a great balance of oak. I'm incredibly thankful and excited to be releasing this bottle today!
The name comes from old-world rathskellers—underground taverns tucked beneath town halls. Dimly lit, full of character, and built for long conversations over a drink. This release is a tribute to that kind of space. A quiet moment. A whiskey that doesn’t need to shout to be heard.
Rathskeller Revival 18-Year Proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon
Bottle & Box
Age: 18-years old
Proof: 117 proof
Source: Bardstown, Kentucky
Mash Bill: 74/18/8 Corn/Rye/Malted Barley
Bottle Count: 161 bottles
Tasting Notes: A beautifully aged whiskey. The nose showcases the age and depth. It opens with sweet oak and ginger snap cookies. There's some notes of dried orange peel, cardamom and dark caramel. It continues to amplify in the glass as it sits. The cherry cobbler and cedar notes start are more predominant as the whiskey opens up.
The palate is rich with leather, mahogany and black currant syrup. It's silky on the palate as the sweetness moves to an age shou pu'er tea. A touch of oak tannins balance through the mid palate. Juicy, sweet notes and white pepper keep shining through.
All of this combines to a long and oaky finish. Stone fruit and almond skins start to mix with a bit of spice. Herbal tea and honey continue as the proof rounds out.
