The King of Kentucky bourbon is back for its eighth year, with the 2025 release featuring a series of 17-year-old single barrels ranging from 124.4 to 135 proof. This highly coveted whiskey from Brown-Forman is known for its premium quality and limited availability, making it a must-have for bourbon enthusiasts and collectors.
Originally established in 1881, the King of Kentucky label was revived by Brown-Forman in 2018 as a top-tier offering within their portfolio. Each year, the brand releases a new batch of high-proof single barrels aged between 14 and 19 years, with the 2025 edition drawing from barrels distilled in 2007.
Master distiller emeritus Chris Morris played a key role in selecting the barrels for the 2025 release, meticulously sampling and evaluating each one to ensure only the highest quality whiskey was chosen. Out of 100 barrels earmarked for the series, Morris selected 63 for this year’s release, which will yield approximately 5,000 bottles of King of Kentucky.
The barrels used in the 2025 edition were sourced from Warehouse J and Warehouse G, where the whiskey underwent aging in heat-cycled environments. This unique aging process exposes the whiskey to varying temperatures throughout the year, resulting in a rich and complex flavor profile that sets King of Kentucky apart from other bourbons.
With a suggested retail price of $399 per bottle, the 2025 release of King of Kentucky is set to hit shelves this fall. Each bottle is a testament to Brown-Forman’s commitment to producing high-quality spirits, with Morris emphasizing the importance of maintaining a standard of excellence across all of their brands.
As Morris notes, the flavor profile of King of Kentucky can vary significantly between barrels, adding an element of surprise and excitement for whiskey connoisseurs. This year’s release promises to deliver a bold and luxurious drinking experience, showcasing the best that Brown-Forman has to offer in the world of American whiskey.
For fans of single-barrel bourbons, the King of Kentucky 17-Year (2025 Release) is sure to be a standout addition to their collection. Keep an eye out for this highly anticipated release and savor the exceptional craftsmanship and flavor that defines the King of Kentucky brand.
