King of Kentucky Small Batch, a limited-edition collection, celebrates a historic moment: the 250th anniversary of the United States and the creation of Kentucky County, Va., which became the State of Kentucky.

King of Kentucky, created in 1881, is named in honor of thoroughbred horse racing, known as "The Sport of Kings." Brown-Forman has owned the brand since 1936 and revived it in 2018. It has become one of the most sought-after bottles in whiskey.

"For years, I've held onto these rare, aged barrels, waiting for a moment significant enough to share them," said Chris Morris, Brown-Forman Master Distiller Emeritus. "To celebrate the founding of our country with a whiskey of this caliber feels like the perfect tribute."

How it's made: For the first time, King of Kentucky introduces a three-batch series, each bottled at a distinct proof to showcase the complexity of its aging process:

• Batch 1: 105 proof
• Batch 2: 107.5 proof
• Batch 3: 110 proof

Each batch is a blend of barrels aged 12–18 years. Some barrels had exceptionally high angel's share, with just 16 percent liquid after years of evaporation.

Tasting Notes:

• Batch 1 (105 proof): Sweet aromatics of chocolate, caramel, and toasted marshmallow balanced with dried apricot and clove; smooth oak and toasted coconut on the palate; a silky, shorter finish.
• Batch 2 (107.5 proof): Dark fruit notes of dates and fig layered with caramel and charred oak; minty with hints of vanilla; a longer, crisp finish.
• Batch 3 (110 proof): Rich chocolate and brown sugar brightened by citrus and pine; bold oak and spice on the palate; the longest, oak-forward finish.

Availability: Select bottles nationwide; SRP: $290.