At its best, bourbon making is an art form—an expression of virtuosity, imagination, and taste. For me, it is also an opportunity to explore the endless possibilities of America’s native spirit. Like the nation itself, I believe it is through the influence of other distinct traditions, cultures, and peoples that an individual whiskey expression reaches its full, unique potential. This belief has led me to search the world for both techniques and inspiration. The latest edition of my Founder’s Collection, a 9-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon finished in Armagnac brandy casks, is an exquisite embodiment of this ongoing quest. 

Of all the places that have influenced my craft, none is more beautiful than the Armagnac countryside of Southern France. Expansive vineyards stretch across picturesque rolling hills, dotted with Provençal medieval architecture and small groves of oak, pine, beech, and chestnut. Even more stunning than the landscape is the distinct and delicious brandy for which the region is famous. Its luxurious complexity is the result of the Solera method, in which casks are arranged in rows by age. Only brandy from the oldest row is bottled, and never more than a third at a time. Those casks are then topped off with brandy from the next oldest row in a continuous process that can last for decades. 

When rested in these mature and deeply saturated Armagnac casks, this bourbon takes on a deep amber hue and a lush, velvety warmth as it absorbs the intricate mix of aromas and flavors held in the fine oak fibers. Earthy scents of dark cigar leaf blend with subtle cherry and sweet floral notes, creating a rich, fragrant nose that awakens the senses. Each sip reveals a harmonious mix of oak, dark fruit, and confectionery tastes. Custard, cherry, and a touch of caramel merge into a sophisticated sweetness that lingers on the back of the palate, highlighting complementary notes of leather, wood, and spice. Is melodic dance of flavors fades into a long, smoky finish, punctuated by hints of black pepper. It is simply magnificent.  

This one-of-a-kind, limited-edition Armagnac cask-finished bourbon is designed for those looking for a singular whiskey experience. Enjoy at full strength or with a touch of water to release more layers of detail and character, but never be afraid to drink as you please. Let our carefully crafted whiskey be a metaphor for life. Complexity can be beautiful. Differences are something to be appreciated. And life is best lived in the company of the people we love. 

-Kaveh Zamanian
Founder & Whiskey Maker

This limited-edition release is bottled at 108 proof and available exclusively at Rabbit Hole Distillery and online in select states (KY, DC, NH, NE, ND). Elevate your collection or gift someone special with this one-of-a-kind expression.

Tasting Notes:

• • Aroma: Tobacco, dark cigar leaf, earthy, mineral, dry, some sweet floral note, cherry in the background, soft fruit notes.
  • Palate: Oak, mild fruitiness, light caramel, high spice, dryness, black pepper, barrel notes, wood characters, sweetness present on the back end of palate, leather, tannins, dark fruit, cherry, custard, earthy, old wood spice, subtle wood sugars. 
  • Finish: Smoke, smooth, turns sweeter, earthiness, very long finish, dark fruit, cherry, stone fruit, caramel, long finish, smokey notes, oak, black pepper.