Old Carter Kentucky Whiskey Batch 1 is the inaugural release in Old Carter's Straight Kentucky Whiskey line — a deliberate departure from their bourbon releases. Blended from 8 barrels and bottled at barrel strength 117.5 proof (58.75% ABV), this was released in October 2020 with only 1,854 bottles produced. Like all Old Carter expressions, it's non-chill filtered and bottled without dilution. The bourbon mashbill goes into used cooperage rather than new charred oak, producing a softer, more supple character than the proof suggests.
Founded by Mark and Sherri Carter — co-creators of Kentucky Owl — Old Carter Whiskey Co. is built on hand-selection, small batches, and full transparency. Sherri hand-illustrates every label, giving each release its own identity.
Tasting Notes
-
Nose: Corn sweetness, malty caramel, zesty clove and anise, subtle citrus, maple, dusty oak
-
Palate: Vanilla, warm pecans, apple, gentle smoke — rich and supple for the proof
-
Finish: Long and sweet with lingering oak, warm spice, and a soft burn
Product Details
| Type |
Straight Kentucky Whiskey |
| Producer |
Old Carter Whiskey Co., Bardstown, KY |
| Batch |
Batch 1 — 8 barrel blend |
| Release Date |
October 2020 |
| Proof |
117.5 (58.75% ABV) |
| Bottles Produced |
1,854 |
| Filtration |
Non-chill filtered, barrel strength |
| Size |
750ml |
How to Drink It
-
Neat: The used cooperage aging gives it a softer entry than the proof implies — it rewards patience. Let it breathe 10 minutes.
-
Drop of water: Opens up the apple and vanilla notes and softens the clove.
-
Comparison pour: Side by side with Batch 2 (131 proof) shows how dramatically the proof and cooperage choice changes the character.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Old Carter Batch 1 different from their bourbon releases?
Old Carter's Kentucky Whiskey line uses a bourbon mashbill but ages in used cooperage instead of new charred oak barrels. This produces a more supple, grain-forward profile versus the caramel and vanilla intensity you get from new oak bourbon aging. The blue label distinguishes it from the bourbon (black/red) and rye (green) lines.
How many bottles of Old Carter Batch 1 were produced?
Only 1,854 bottles from an 8-barrel blend, released October 2020. Old Carter does not restock batches — each release is a one-time production run, bottled when the barrels are ready.
Is 117.5 proof too strong to drink neat?
Less so than it sounds. The used cooperage aging produces a noticeably softer profile than new oak bourbon at the same proof — reviewers consistently note the approachable mouthfeel despite the strength. A small pour neat first, then add water to taste.
Who founded Old Carter Whiskey Co.?
Mark and Sherri Carter, who previously co-created the Kentucky Owl brand. Sherri hand-illustrates every Old Carter label. The company launched in March 2018 with a first batch of just 1,269 bottles and has maintained small-batch, fully transparent releases since.
You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase. Please drink responsibly.
