LOUISVILLE, Ky. — One of Brown-Forman’s most coveted annual bourbon releases is back for 2026, with King of Kentucky returning as a 14-year-old, high-proof single barrel bourbon drawn from just 99 barrels.
The 2026 King of Kentucky release comes from two lots of bourbon, both aged 14 years, with individual barrel proofs ranging from 125 to 135 proof.
Brown-Forman selected 51 barrels that matured on the third floor of Warehouse I and another 48 barrels from the first floor of Warehouse L at the Brown-Forman Distillery in Louisville.
Because King of Kentucky is released as a true single barrel bourbon, there can be noticeable differences from bottle to bottle depending on the individual barrel, its proof and where it matured in the warehouse.
“This year’s King of Kentucky is a remarkable expression of what time, careful maturation and thoughtful barrel selection can create,” said Caleb Trigo, assistant master distiller. “Each of these 99 barrels was selected for its exceptional character, and after 14 years of aging, they deliver the bold, complex profile that defines King of Kentucky.”
Brown-Forman describes the 2026 release as opening with a fruit-forward aroma featuring orange zest, rich caramel, dark chocolate and toasted marshmallow layered over a balanced, nutty oak character.
The palate brings dark maple syrup alongside orange zest, vanilla wafers and baked banana. The finish is described as exceptionally long, carrying silky notes of caramel and chocolate.
As with previous King of Kentucky releases, presentation and barrel-specific information are a major part of the package.
Every bottle is filled, bottled, wax-dipped and numbered by hand before being placed in a custom canister. Individual bottles identify the bourbon’s proof and age along with its warehouse location, lot number, serial number and barrel number.
That information allows collectors to know exactly which of the 99 barrels produced their bottle — an important distinction for a single barrel release in which proof and flavor can vary from barrel to barrel.
The 2026 King of Kentucky carries a suggested retail price of $399 and will be released in limited quantities in select markets nationwide.
The King of Kentucky name has a history stretching back more than a century.
The brand was established in 1881 as a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. Brown-Forman acquired King of Kentucky from Selected Kentucky Distillers in 1936 and eventually discontinued the label in 1968.
Five decades later, Brown-Forman brought the historic name back.
King of Kentucky was revived in 2018, but rather than simply recreating the original whiskey, Brown-Forman repositioned the label as an ultra-premium, limited-production bourbon showcasing older barrels and high-proof whiskey.
It has since developed into one of Brown-Forman’s most anticipated annual releases, particularly among bourbon collectors searching for older, barrel-strength Kentucky whiskey.
With only 99 barrels making up the 2026 edition, availability will once again be extremely limited.
For bourbon enthusiasts fortunate enough to find one, the barrel number, warehouse location and proof may be nearly as interesting as the bottle itself — particularly with this year’s whiskey coming from two different warehouse locations and spanning a 10-proof range.
At 14 years old and between 125 and 135 proof, the 2026 King of Kentucky continues the revived brand’s focus on mature, high-proof Kentucky bourbon while giving each barrel its own individual identity.
About Brown-Forman
Brown-Forman Corporation has been building exceptional spirits brands for more than 150 years, responsibly upholding our founding promise of “Nothing Better in the Market.” Our portfolio of premium brands includes the Jack Daniel’s Family of Brands, Woodford Reserve, The Glendronach, Benriach, Glenglassaugh, Herradura, El Jimador, Chambord, Gin Mare, and Diplomatico Rum. With a team of approximately 5,400 employees worldwide, we proudly share our passion for premium beverages in more than 170 countries. Discover more about us at brown-forman.com.
