There’s something inherently thrilling about an Orphan Barrel release—a treasure hunt in liquid form, unearthing forgotten barrels from the depths of Kentucky’s rickhouses. As a longtime fan of their craft, I’m always eager to see what they dig up next, and their latest, Fanged Pursuit, doesn’t disappoint. This 17-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey marks a bold first for the collection: it’s their inaugural non-chill filtered North American offering, letting the spirit’s full character shine through unhindered.
Distilled from a mash bill of 68-74% corn, 18-22% rye, and 8-10% malted barley, Fanged Pursuit spent nearly two decades maturing in charred American oak barrels, soaking up the Bluegrass State’s seasonal swings. The result is a robust 92-proof pour that greets you with a nose of vanilla, red cherries, and honey—sweet and inviting, yet hinting at the depth to come. On the palate, it unfolds with toasted oak and orchard fruits, chased by a slow burn of warming spices, all wrapped in a velvety, unfiltered texture that lingers deliberately. It’s a bourbon that rewards patience, much like the solitary Kentucky bobcat that inspired its moniker.
Priced at $200 for a 750ml bottle, this one-time release is already hitting select U.S. retailers and ReserveBar. True to Orphan Barrel’s ethos, once it’s gone, it’s gone for good—a fleeting chance to savor a piece of bourbon history. Whether you sip it neat to unpack its layers or let it elevate a quiet evening, Fanged Pursuit is a testament to why Orphan Barrel remains a name worth watching.
