Stitzel Reserve 24-Year-Old Bourbon
Diageo has opened a new chapter in American whiskey with the launch of Stitzel Reserve, a distillery-exclusive series that begins with a rare 24-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon. Available only at the famed Stitzel-Weller Distillery in Louisville, this ultra-limited bottling connects past and present with just 191 bottles drawn from barrels filled back in 1999. It’s not just a release—it’s a celebration of 90 years of whiskey-making legacy.
Stitzel Reserve 24-Year-Old Bourbon
Marking a significant milestone for the iconic Stitzel-Weller Distillery, Diageo has introduced the Stitzel Reserve series to showcase exceptional aged whiskey from its archive. The debut release—a 24-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon—is distilled from nine carefully selected barrels filled in 1999 and bottled at a robust 61.7% ABV.
Crafted under the direction of Nicole Austin, Diageo’s Director of American Whiskey Development, this inaugural expression pays tribute to the storied distillery’s 90-year history.
Closed in 1992 and revived by Diageo in 2014, Stitzel-Weller has experienced a renaissance as the home of premium brands like Blade & Bow, IW Harper, and Orphan Barrel. With this new collection, Diageo signals a renewed focus on rare and collectible whiskey experiences, available exclusively at the distillery for visitors aged 21 and above.
In addition to full bottle purchases, the distillery is offering a curated tasting experience at the Garden & Gun Club, complete with a collector’s glass, a branded bag, and a limited-edition pin.
- Brand: Stitzel Reserve
- Product: Stitzel Reserve 24-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
- Distillery: Stitzel-Weller Distillery, Louisville, Kentucky
- Owner: Diageo
- Category: American Whiskey
- Style: Straight Bourbon
- Age: 24 Years
- ABV: 61.7%
- Volume: 750ml
- Release Date: June 2025
- Price: Available on request (distillery-only)
- Availability: 191 bottles exclusively at Stitzel-Weller; tastings offered at the Garden & Gun Club onsite
Tasting Notes
This 24-year-old beauty is steeped in decades of quiet maturation, offering a complex and layered profile.
- Appearance: Deep amber with copper glints
- Nose: Cracked leather, saddle oil, aged oak
- Palate: Burnt sugar, dark fruit, spice, and hints of tobacco
- Finish: Long, warming, and subtly smoky with lingering sweetness
Key Highlights
A milestone release from a legendary site:
- Honors 90 years of Stitzel-Weller heritage
- Created under the vision of Nicole Austin, Diageo’s whiskey lead
- Drawn from nine vintage 1999 barrels
- Limited to just 191 bottles
- Only available at the distillery to visitors aged 21+
- Tasting experience includes: custom etched glass, branded bag, and exclusive pin
- Launches the Stitzel Reserve series—future releases will be equally rare and unscheduled
Final Overview
This is more than just a collector’s bottle—it’s a chance to sip from history. Crafted with care and aged patiently, the Stitzel Reserve 24-Year-Old is already turning heads among connoisseurs. Nicole Austin captures it perfectly: “This whiskey reflects decades of craftsmanship and thoughtful maturation. It’s a pivotal moment for Stitzel-Weller.” Early impressions note its depth, balance, and bold finish—qualities cherished by seasoned bourbon lovers.
FAQs
Q1: Can I buy Stitzel Reserve online or in stores?
No, it is only available at the Stitzel-Weller Distillery in Louisville.
Q2: Is this part of a regular series?
The Stitzel Reserve series has no fixed schedule—each release will be limited and unique.
Q3: Can I sample the whiskey before buying?
Yes, tastings are offered at the Garden & Gun Club at the distillery with a gift package.
