Bardstown, Kentucky-based whiskey maker 15 STARS just released a new expression for fans of well-aged rye: the Founders Reserve Fine Aged Rye. It’s a limited-edition blend composed of straight rye whiskeys aged 14, 13, 9, and 8 years, sourced from Kentucky, Indiana, and Tennessee.
This release follows the brand’s known approach of blending aged whiskeys from multiple states and applying a thoughtful proofing process. Bottled at 95 proof, the Founders Reserve combines elements of spice, fruit, and oak, with a flavor profile that leans both classic and layered.
Co-founder Ricky Johnson says the goal was to create “something extraordinary” by bringing together distinct mashbills from different whiskey-producing regions. The result is a rye that brings both familiarity and nuance to the glass.
On the nose, expect a mix of vanilla, honey, and caramel, with floral undertones. Let it breathe, and you’ll get deeper aromas: old cigar box, nutmeg, raspberry dark chocolate, and black cherry.
The palate carries brighter tones … peach, mandarin orange, and sweet mint … balanced by richer notes like caramel apple and oak. The finish lingers with cherry, licorice, tobacco, and honeycomb.
The Founders Reserve is priced at $139 and is available in limited quantities at select retailers and online through the 15 STARS website.
15 STARS, founded by father-and-son team Rick and Ricky Johnson, launched in 2022 and the name “15 STARS” refers to Kentucky’s position as the 15th U.S. state and the 15-star flag used during that era, a nod to American history that aligns with the brand’s heritage-forward approach.
Though the distillery itself is relatively new, its use of older stocks, creative mashbill combinations, and multi-state blending strategies has allowed it to stand out in the growing crowd of American whiskey producers.
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