Barton 1792 Distillery has introduced two new additions to its lineup, 1792 Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey and 1792 XV. Together, the releases highlight the distillery’s approach to maturation and blending.
As the brand’s first-ever straight rye expression, 1792 Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey marks a major expansion of the permanent portfolio. Though its distillation and barrel entry proofs mirror those of 1792’s bourbons, the 100 proof 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. That foundation is further shaped by a globally sourced blend of rye grains from Canada, Europe, and the northern United States.
“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 Barton 1792 Master Distiller Ross Cornelissen. “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 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 expression emerges at 124.2 proof. In developing XV, the distilling team at 1792 carefully selected 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 flavor profile.
The annual expression builds on the profile of 1792 Aged Twelve Years, adding three years of extended maturation. Bottled at cask-strength, the bourbon also reflects the intensity fans associate with 1792 Full Proof.
“This release wasn’t part of a planned experiment in barrel-proof whiskey,” said Cornelissen. “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.
“Refining and reimagining our whiskey-making process has opened the door to new flavor possibilities,” said 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.”
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.
1792 Kentucky Straight Rye Whiskey is available now for $39.99. 1792 XV is available now via Global Travel Retail at select airports for $249.99.
