Seelbach's Private Reserve "Usonia" Kentucky Straight Bourbon Finished in Mizunara Barrels

I'm excited to finally share a project that has been in the works for the last 10 months. At Seelbach's, we love exploring with finishing barrels. Especially when it comes to elevating a bourbon's taste profile with that barrel. Back in January, I sourced two toasted Mizunara barrels from The Barrel Mill. I’ve enjoyed Mizunara releases from various distilleries and brands. But I soon learned how tricky Mizunara can be. The potential to over-oak and ruin the whiskey is definitely possible. I started by blending four 9-year barrels that were already viscous with rounded notes of orange peel and spice. Then I waited. This was the hard part. Three months in, it tasted good. Will it get better? After four months, the balance was off. Finally, after five months, the bourbon achieved a perfect balance of sweetness, black tea, and citrus. It's truly the most refined bourbon I've blended, and there's a reason my bottle is already half empty. I hope you enjoy this first release of Seelbach's Usonia Mizunara Bourbon!

Usonia is built on the belief that distinctly American whiskey deserves a distinctly American point of view. Inspired by an architectural philosophy that favored thoughtful design, honest materials, and craftsmanship with purpose, Usonia celebrates bourbon as something constructed rather than simply produced. Every barrel is a building block, selected for the character it contributes to the structure, depth, and balance. Nothing exists simply for ornament. From grain and oak to time and place, each element serves a purpose. The result is whiskey grounded in tradition but designed with intention: American materials, American craftsmanship, thoughtfully assembled.

Age: 9-Years 6-Months old

Proof: 117.54 proof

Finish: 5-Months Light Toast Mizunara Barrels

Source: Bardstown, KY

Mash Bill: 75/21/4 Corn/Rye/Malted Barley

Bottle Count: 496 bottles

Tasting Notes: Rich aromas of French vanilla bean ice cream and bright orange crush open the nose, layered with warm baking spices and toasted coconut. The palate introduces a savory twist of sweet and smoky BBQ chips, balanced by creamy vanilla and vibrant citrus. The Mizunara finish brings everything together with delicate sweet tobacco, subtle spice, and an elegant, refined oak character that lingers long after the final sip.