Ferrand Cognac Finish II, new for 2025, is a bold and luxurious limited-edition bourbon that merges Kentucky straight whiskeys and rye with French cognac refinement. After years of aging (6-12 years depending on the component), this blend is finished for 15 months in Maison Ferrand Cognac casks, producing a rich, complex flavor profile full of dark fruit, toasted oak, spice, and a subtle herbal lift. Its made for savoring neat, yet rich enough to impress in a premium cocktail.

Key Specs & Origins

Feature Detail Name / Edition Bardstown Bourbon Co. Collaborative Series: Maison Ferrand Finish II / Ferrand Cognac Finish II. Type / Style Blend of Kentucky straight bourbons and rye, finished in cognac barrels. Finish 15 months in Maison Ferrand Cognac casks. Proof / ABV 111.8 proof (~55.9% ABV) in many listings; some sources say 107 proof ( 53.5%) depending on bottling or region. Blend Composition & Ages A mix of aged bourbons (9-, 11-, 12-year components) and a rye component aged around 6 years. Mash bills vary (corn/rye/malted barley in different proportions). Origin Kentucky, USA

Tasting Profile

Sense Notes Nose / Aroma Decadent black cherry; toasted oak; vanilla cream; rye spice. Palate / Taste Baked apple; pecan; raisin; richness from the cognac casks bringing fruity depth and smooth sweetness; oak tannin and oak toast; layered spice from rye. Finish Full-bodied finish with a balance between rich bourbon character and cognac elegance; hints of mint; lingering oak & fruit.

What Makes It Special

• The cognac cask finishing adds a French flair to classic Kentucky bourbon/rye characteristicsfruity, refined, with more nuanced wood influence.

• High proof combined with significant age and blend diversity gives it both punch and complexity.

• The addition of rye whiskey in the blend adds structure and spice not always found in pure bourbon finishes.

• It has received awards / strong recognition (Double Gold at San Francisco World Spirits Competition) which underscore its quality and reception.

• Deep, layered whiskey that rewards sipping neat or with minimal dilution.

• Excellent for collectors or connoisseurs who appreciate finishing in wine/brandy/cognac casks.

• Dual heritage: U.S. bourbon depth + French cognac finishing refinement.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions

• Neat in a tulip or Glencairn glass, possibly after the glass warms a little to release aromas.

• A drop of water or large ice cube can help open up the oak and fruit layers.

• Use in elevated cocktails where cognac flavor adds valuee.g., a Cognac-Finished Boulevardier, or a twist on an Old Fashioned with cognac barrel influence.

• Food pairings: rich desserts (dark chocolate, fruit cake, pecan pie), roasted meats, charcuterie, dried fruits, sometimes strong cheeses.