The whiskey world is abuzz with the latest offering from Green River Distilling Co.a name synonymous with Kentucky’s rich bourbon heritage. Despite recent challenges in the industry, the distillery continues to innovate, showcasing its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. This spring, they announced a new addition to their portfolio: an eight-year-old bourbon with a distinctive toasted oak finish.
As the 10th-oldest licensed Kentucky distillery, Green River boasts a legacy that dates back to the late 19th century. Although the modern distillery in Owensboro, Ken. only resumed operations in 2016, it has quickly made a name for itself. The first new whiskey hit the shelves in 2026, marking the beginning of a new era under the ownership of Bardstown Bourbon Companywhich acquired Green River that same year. Both distilleries now operate under the Lofted Spirits parent company.
The Birth of a New Bourbon: Green River Distillery Select Toasted Double Oak
This weekend, whiskey enthusiasts can get their hands on the latest creation from Green River: the Green River Distillery Select Toasted Double Oak. This bourbon is the first in a new series that highlights various proofs, finishes, and warehouse maturation sites. Crafted from the distillery’s standard mashbill—70 percent corn, 21 percent rye, and 9 percent malted barley—this whiskey has spent eight years aging in the distillery’s rickhouses.
But what sets this bourbon apart is its unique finishing process. Thirteen barrels were selected from Warehouse B to spend an additional six months in a lightly charred, medium-toasted new barrel, crafted by the renowned Independent Stave Company. The result is a bourbon bottled at 115.1 proofoffering a complex and robust flavor profile.
A Master Blender’s Vision
Dan Callawaythe master blender at Lofted Spirits, shared his insights on the new release. “The strong fruit flavors of Green River are ideally suited for a double barrel,” he explained. “The bold flavor pairs perfectly with the additional wood sugars and spice imparted during the extra six months of double barreling. The historic Green River distillery is sitting on some of the best whiskey in Kentucky. The Distillery Select series will allow us to take our classic bourbon and rye mashbills to the next level.”
A Tasting Experience Like No Other
For those eager to experience the new Toasted Double Oak bourbon, the wait is almost over. Starting this Saturday, June 20, you can find it at the distillery, priced at $50 for a 375 ml bottle. Additionally, it will be available at the Louisville Tasting Room from Friday, June 26.
The toasted oak influence is evident in every sip, offering warm notes of cinnamon, dusty balsa wood, and roasted almonds. The palate is further enriched with flavors like black pepper, Charleston Chew, Peanut M&Ms, vanilla soft serve, and ripe stone fruit. The higher proof adds a touch of heat on the finish, making it a whiskey that truly stands out.
Despite the recent challenges faced by the American whiskey industry, Green River Distilling Co. continues to push boundaries and deliver exceptional products. The new Toasted Double Oak bourbon is a testament to their dedication to quality and innovation. As the distillery navigates the current market conditions, their commitment to craftsmanship remains unwavering, ensuring that whiskey lovers everywhere have something to look forward to.
