Guided by a relentless pursuit of innovation, Bardstown Bourbon Company continues to explore the boundaries of American Whiskey with the debut of two highly anticipated limited releases: Discovery #13 and Ferrand II. Available nationwide in limited quantities beginning August 29, the Discovery Series returns with the line’s first-ever double-barreled expression, while the revered partnership with Maison Ferrand brings a second award-winning cognac finish from the collaboration.
Discovery #13 – A Lucky Twist on Tradition
Marking the first double-barreled expression in the award-winning Discovery Series, Discovery #13 is a true Kentucky Bourbon with a transatlantic touch.
It begins like many Discovery releases before it: Kentucky Straight Bourbons, aged between 8 and 15 years, joined to create a harmonious blend. But Discovery 13’s journey was just beginning. After its creation, the batch was split for secondary finishing in two distinct oak varieties.
For four months, 60 percent of the blend rested in new American White Oak barrels. The remaining 40 percent aged in premium Hungarian Oak barrels. With a tighter grain, the Hungarian oak barrels were stored on a higher floor to promote extraction. Meanwhile, American oak barrels, which quickly yield flavor, rested on a lower level to ease into the final flavor profile. Both barrel lots were meticulously monitored to foster balance between wood sugar and tannin in each barrel type.
Each barrel type imparts unique character: American oak delivering a bold, classic vanilla profile and Hungarian oak contributing less common notes of baking spice, coffee, and mocha. After four months of finishing, the barrels are reunited, blended together to create a profile that is both familiar and intriguingly new.
“Double-barreling whiskey of significant age is a challenge we were excited to take on,” said Dan Callaway, Master Blender, who leads Bardstown’s finishing and blending. “We’ve honed our technique and process, carefully controlling conditions to add wood sugar and complexity that enhances aged liquid and showcases how innovation and tradition can come together to produce something truly rare.”
Second Collaboration Deepens Relationship with Maison Ferrand
The second Bardstown Bourbon collaboration with France’s Maison Ferrand takes a fresh approach to the award-winning 2022 release. The 2025 collaboration blends Kentucky Straight Bourbon and Rye before finishing in rare Ferrand Cognac casks shipped directly from Cognac, France. The result is a vibrant whiskey where American grain character meets the elegance and depth of Cognac influence—perfect for sipping neat or as the star of a Vieux Carré.
“Our friends at Maison Ferrand are true masters of their craft,” said Callaway. “The addition of rye to this blend adds spice and structure, creating a layered, complex whiskey that’s both familiar and adventurous.”
Alexandre Gabriel, Owner and Master Blender of Maison Ferrand added: “The beauty of this partnership is in the meeting of two worlds. We share our traditions, learn from each other, and push the boundaries of what’s possible. The result is something truly special, and you can taste it.”
Like its 2022 collaborative predecessor, Bardstown Bourbon’s 2025 Ferrand collaboration was awarded Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition. It is presented at 107 proof (53.5% alc. by vol). Both Discovery #13 and the Ferrand collaboration are offered nationwide for a suggested retail price of $139.99. The releases debut in advance of Bourbon Heritage Month and will be featured at this year’s Kentucky Bourbon Festival, with early availability at Bardstown Bourbon Company’s homeplace in Bardstown, Ky., and its Louisville tasting room beginning Friday, August 29.
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