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A. Smith Bowman Distillery is releasing a new rye whiskey

Fans of rye whiskey will want to try this new expression

A. Smith Bowman
A. Smith Bowman

Virginia’s oldest continually operating distillery, A. Smith Bowman, is well-known for its portfolio of award-winning whiskeys. Recently, the brand announced the release of an epic new rye whiskey.

Abraham Bowman Special Release #26

The newest release in the Abraham Bowman Limited Edition Collection, Abraham Bowman Special Release #26, is a rye whiskey made up of barrels that matured for a minimum of 11 years in the distillery’s coldest warehouse. The result is a 110-proof, balanced, complex whiskey perfect for sipping neat, on the rocks, or with a splash or two of water to open up the aromas and flavors.

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According to the distillery, Abraham Bowman Special Release #26 begins with a nose of maple syrup, copper, and “fresh spring aromatics”. The palate is centered on flavors like vanilla, apricot, and orange zest. The finish is lingering and warm, ending with a mix of mint and cracked black pepper.

“Every Abraham Bowman Limited Edition release is an opportunity to ask new questions and explore new processes for making whiskey,”  A. Smith Bowman Distillery Master Distiller David Bock says.

“With this release, we wanted to continue our pursuit of the perfect rye mashbill. By allowing this whiskey to age for over a decade and bottling it at a higher proof, we deepened our understanding of how these elements shape a rye whiskey’s character. The result is a whiskey that is both expressive and balanced, showcasing the complexity rye can offer.”

Where can I buy this whiskey?

Sadly, you can’t just go into a store and grab a bottle of this limited-edition expression. It will only be available through an online lottery, beginning on May 4th,, and in limited quantities through Sazerac’s United States distributor network at select retailers, restaurants, and bars, at the suggested retail price of $79.99.

Christopher Osburn
Christopher Osburn is a food and drinks writer located in the Finger Lakes Region of New York. He's been writing professional
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