2026 Cask Strength Bourbon Drops

13th Colony’s annual limited-edition Cask Strength Southern Bourbon drops this month, bringing bourbon enthusiasts an uncut version of the distillery’s flagship bourbon whiskey for a third consecutive year. The 2026 Cask Strength Southern Bourbon delivers a 120.82 proof and unique flavor profile to last year’s specialty release while staying true to the pour fans love.

“Each year’s Cask Strength Bourbon is uniquely its own because we age to taste, not just to time,” said Maxwell Darby, president of 13th Colony Distilleries, which is located in Americus, Georgia, where the region’s high temperature swings and steady humidity are perfect for naturally aging bourbon. “We taste barrels throughout the year, searching for the right combination for this specialty release. The 2026 bourbon shows what patience can deliver – depth, character and a whiskey truly worth drinking slow.” 

What is the flavor profile of the 2026 Cask Strength Bourbon?

Each barrel of the 2026 Cask Strength Southern Bourbon was aged between five to six years. It delivers at 120.82 proof with a different flavor profile than the 2025 release. Its nose is dark and earthy with bold notes of honey and baking spice. Bittersweet dark chocolate mingles with clove and cracked peppercorn alongside nostalgic hints of malted milk balls and fresh pancakes. The palate is vanilla simple syrup, and orange marmalade leads the way  followed by delicate herbal notes of tarragon and spearmint. Layers of roasted malt syrup, toasted oats and buttery shortbread cookies round out the mid-palate. The finish is smooth and approachable, leaving behind gentle impressions of allspice, clove, sugar cookie and warm bread pudding.

“Despite a slightly higher proof than 2025’s specialty release, this cask strength bourbon drinks surprisingly easy with impressive depth to give 13th Colony fans a new experience in this annual release of our uncut Southern Bourbon,” Darby said. 

Where can fans buy the 2026 Cask Strength Bourbon?

The 2026 Cask Strength Southern Bourbon will be available in early April in 17 states and Washington, D.C., reflecting 13th Colony’s growing distribution and commitment to give fans across the country easier access to their spirits. Fans will be able to find it in Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas and Washington, D.C. and select online retailers. In addition, a limited amount will be available for sale at 13th Colony’s distillery in Americus, Georgia. 13th Colony Cask Strength Southern Bourbon has an MSRP of $89.99-$99.99.

A full list of 13th Colony retail distribution can be found at 13thcolonydistillery.com/where-to-buy.