Yellowstone Bourbon Unveils 2026 Bourbon Finished in Ruby and Tawny Port Casks
Yellowstone Bourbon announced the release of Yellowstone Limited Edition 2026, the 11th expression in its annual Limited Edition series. Crafted by Master Distiller Stephen Beam, this year's highly anticipated release is a blend of 7- and 14-year-old Kentucky straight bourbons finished separately in Ruby and Tawny Port casks before being married and bottled at 101 proof.
How It's Made: Inspired by the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone National Park, this year's expression reflects the contrast between light and shadow that defines one of the park's most iconic landscapes. The opposing elements guided Beam to finish the bourbons separately – in Ruby Port to evoke the brilliant flare of the canyon's sunset and Tawny Port to reflect the deep shadow of the valley floor - before bringing them together into a single expression.
"Every Yellowstone bottle is inspired by the park, and this year I kept coming back to the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone National Park," said Beam. "The way the sunlight moves across the canyon transforms what you see from moment to moment. Using Ruby and Tawny Port casks allowed me to capture that contrast and translate it into a bourbon that feels dynamic and complete."
On the Nose and Palate: The nose opens with charred oak, blackberry, and plum, with a thread of piloncillo. On the palate, a velvety texture carries caramelized sugar and dark fruit before giving way to dark chocolate. The finish lingers with dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and a hint of clove.
Availability: Yellowstone Limited Edition 2026 (SRP $99) is currently available for purchase at the Limestone Branch Distillery Visitor's Center and will be available at select retailers nationwide starting in August.
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