There are few things more American than bourbon whiskey. And the folks over at Limestone Branch Distillery would be the first to tell you that toward the top of this hypothetical list would be our great National Parks. The first and arguably the most famous National Park is Yellowstone, which spans three state lines and is most known for its lush mountain ranges, erupting geysers, and pervading wildlife. In 1872, after several failed attempts from advocates, President Ulysses S. Grant signed a bill that protected our country’s most prized natural assets, designating Yellowstone as the first official National Park.
That same year, to celebrate the occasion, Yellowstone bourbon was introduced — now owned by Limestone Branch, an offshoot of the Beam provenance — and continues to do its part to help keep the legacy of the National Parks alive. Each year since 2015, the Kentucky-based label unveils a limited-edition expression of its bourbon whiskey and donates a portion to the National Parks Conservation Association. But for 2022, considering the 150th anniversary of both Yellowstone the park and Yellowstone the liquor, this release is a little more special.
The 2022 Limited Edition Yellowstone combines three different straight bourbons to form one balanced expression. Master Distiller Stephen Beam helmed the release, which utilizes 7-, 15-, and 16-year-old barrels. The 7-year whiskey was finished in Marsala Superiore casks previously used for fortified Italian wine. These barrels imparted the dried fruit and tanginess you would expect from a dessert wine, which, together with that of the two extra-aged bourbons, creates a dynamic profile that also includes brown sugar, walnuts, dates, and hints of vanilla, with a finish of tamarind.
750mL bottles of the Yellowstone 2022 Limited Edition bourbon will be available this September from Limestone Branch Distillery for $100.
