James Pepper Old Pepper Rye pays tribute to Colonel James E. Pepper's enduring legacy, celebrated during his lifetime as 'The Oldest and Best Brand of Whiskey made in Kentucky.' Colonel Pepper's pioneering contributions to the bourbon industry include being the first label in Kentucky to be bottled at the distillery, and his invention of the 'signature strip stamp,' which later became integral to the Bottled-in-Bond Act of 1897, ensuring the quality of whiskey in the bottle.

Today, our label proudly reflects historic fonts and designs from the 1880s through the turn of the century, including the iconic signature strip label, providing consumers with valuable information about the whiskey's origin and production.

Technically, James Pepper Old Pepper Rye is a 100% Rye, a 'Pure Rye,' as Colonel Pepper used to produce. It is aged in new toasted & charred barrels made from Kentucky Oak, air seasoned for a minimum of 18-24 months, with water sourced from the historic distillery well. Distilled and bottled at the historic James E. Pepper Distillery (DSP-KY-5) in Lexington, Kentucky, it is aged a minimum of 4 years and bottled at 100 proof. The distilling season is listed on the signature strip label.

In addition to our core offering, the 'Old Pepper' line includes limited releases and extensions, such as Single Barrels bottled at barrel proof and Finest Kentucky Oak editions, which undergo a secondary finish in a new toasted barrel, also bottled at barrel proof. While some limited releases and single barrels may contain whiskey distilled elsewhere, all details are transparently provided on the labels. Experience the rich history and exceptional craftsmanship of James Pepper Old Pepper Rye, a true testament to Colonel Pepper's enduring legacy.

TASTING NOTES

Complex and balanced; Notes of chocolate peppermint and wildflower honey.