BARDSTOWN, KY (July 7, 2026) – Barton 1792 Distillery today introduces two exciting new additions to its award-winning 1792 lineup: 1792 Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey, the brand’s first-ever straight rye expression, and 1792 XV, a 15-year-old bourbon that is both the oldest in the collection and the first bottled unfiltered at cask-strength. Together, the releases highlight Barton 1792 Distillery’s disciplined approach to maturation and blending, demonstrating how careful aging and thoughtful innovation continue to shape the evolution of the 1792 brand.
Established in 1879, Barton 1792 Distillery is the oldest continuously operating distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, the Bourbon Capital of the World. Its portfolio reflects a range of distinctive and award-winning expressions, highlighted by recent recognition at the 2026 Denver International Spirits Competition, where 1792 Full Proof was named the highest-rated spirit overall, earning the only Platinum Award presented. 1792 Single Barrel earned Best of Show (2nd Place), alongside five additional expressions that captured Gold medals. As the brand continues to earn acclaim for its craftsmanship, the Distillery remains committed to exploring new ways to develop its whiskey.
“Refining and reimagining our whiskey-making process has opened the door to new flavor possibilities,” says Tyler Smith, Brand Director of 1792. “With these releases, we continue to grow the 1792 brand, building on our nearly 150-year legacy while expanding the portfolio in ways that excite both longtime fans and new whiskey enthusiasts.”
1792 Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey:
1792 Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey marks the first-ever straight rye expression from the brand and a major expansion of the permanent portfolio. Available now in select markets through Sazerac’s distributor network, the annual release introduces a bold, rye-forward counterpart to the acclaimed bourbon lineup, bringing signature spice and depth to the 1792 family at an approachable suggested retail price of $39.99 per 750ml bottle (local taxes and fees may vary by market).
The expression meets the standards of a traditional Kentucky straight rye whiskey while confidently stepping into the category on its own terms. Though its distillation and barrel entry proofs mirror those of 1792’s award-winning bourbons, the rye demands a more precise mashing process and fermentation to fully express its spice-driven character.
Rather than employing a neutral yeast, Barton 1792 Master Distiller Ross Cornelissen chose the brand’s signature bourbon yeast, introducing a subtle fruit-forward sweetness that balances the rye’s intensity. That foundation is further shaped by a globally sourced blend of rye grains from Canada, Europe, and the northern United States. Canadian rye contributes floral lift, northern U.S. grain delivers peppery spice, and European rye provides bready, herbal depth, resulting in a refined, multi-dimensional rye that anchors vibrant spice with aromatic elegance.
Bottled at 100 proof, 1792 Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey opens with aromas of warm baking spices and spiced fruit jellies that lead to a palate of assertive rye spice, cinnamon candy and rich molasses. The finish is long and structured, marked by lingering mulling spices and gentle sweet oak.
“We felt the rye reached its peak at 100 proof. Here, the whiskey showcases a seamless integration of rye spice, oak and yeast influence,” says Ross Cornelissen, Master Distiller, Barton 1792. “Many seasoned bourbon drinkers turn to rye when they’re ready to explore something new. With 1792 Bourbon’s high-rye mash bill, this release offers fans a familiar spice profile with a recognizable rye character.”
1792 XV:
1792 XV stands as the oldest age-stated bourbon in the 1792 portfolio and the brand’s inaugural cask-strength offering. After resting in virgin charred American white oak barrels for 15 years, the uncut and unfiltered XV emerges at 124.2 proof, marking a significant milestone for the brand’s maturation program.
In developing XV, the distilling team at 1792 carefully selected exceptional barrels, sampling and measuring each to reveal its distinct proof and character. Multiple blend iterations followed, with barrel combinations and proofs refined until the team achieved an expression that accentuates the bourbon’s maturity and intricate flavor profile.
The annual expression builds on the profile of 1792 Aged Twelve Years, adding three years of extended maturation that brings a deeper oak presence and concentrated sweetness. Bottled at cask-strength, the bourbon also reflects the intensity fans associate with 1792 Full Proof, resulting in a bold and intricate expression. Aromas of sweet cola, leather and vanilla extract lead to a palate of dark cherries and cocoa, finishing with rich oak and dark caramel. With its rarity, extended aging, and elevated proof, XV sits at the apex of the 1792 portfolio, offering enthusiasts a refined neat pour shaped by time and careful blending.
“This release wasn’t part of a planned experiment in barrel-proof whiskey,” Master Distiller Cornelissen adds. “We noticed that several of our oldest barrels were developing extraordinary characteristics, with flavors and nuances that stood out on their own. That discovery inspired us to do something special, which ultimately led to the creation of XV.”
1792 XV is presented in an elongated 1-liter glass bottle with the brand’s signature oversized, flat-topped gold stopper. The expression is available now via Global Travel Retail at select airports including Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), and South Korea’s Incheon International Airport (ICN) at a suggested retail price of $249.99 (local taxes and fees will vary by market).
About 1792 Whiskey
1792 Whiskey is produced at Barton 1792 Distillery and is named for the year Kentucky became a state. The 1792 portfolio includes Small Batch, Single Barrel, Bottled in Bond, Full Proof, Aged Twelve Years, Sweet Wheat, and more—each offering a sophisticated and complex flavor profile. Through flawless distillation, distinct recipes, patient maturation, and precise proofing, 1792 whiskeys have earned acclaim from novices and connoisseurs around the world. Recently, 1792 Small Batch was named Best Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards, while 1792 Aged Twelve Years, Full Proof, and Small Batch each received Double Gold at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. To learn more, visit www.1792bourbon.com.
About Barton 1792 Distillery
Barton 1792 Distillery is an American family-owned company located in Bardstown, Kentucky. Named for the year Kentucky became a state, the Distillery was established in 1879 and continues today as the oldest fully-operating Distillery in the “Bourbon Capital of the World.” The Distillery is part of Barton Brands, which is owned by the Sazerac Company, one of the world’s largest distilled spirits companies with over 400 years of history. Situated in the heart of bourbon country on 196 acres, the Distillery boasts 29 barrel aging warehouses, 22 other buildings including an impressive still house, and the legendary Tom Moore Spring. 1792 Small Batch Bourbon Whiskey, as well as seven limited edition expressions, are produced at Barton 1792 Distillery. The Distillery has garnered a number of prestigious awards for its whiskies, including its 1792 Small Batch winning Best Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon at the 2025 World Whiskies Awards. To learn more about Barton 1792 Distillery, visit www.1792bourbon.com.
