Stoli Group’s Kentucky Owl has unveiled the Maighstir Edition. The new whiskey is the third international collaboration limited edition release from the brand, demonstrating its imaginative take on classic bourbon.
A result of the collaboration between Master Blenders John Rhea and new Kentucky Owl Master Blender Maureen Robinson, the Maighstir Edition pays homage to the whiskey traditions of both the United States and Scotland. “Maighstir” (pronounced may-stir) translates as ‘Master’ in Gaelic, highlighting the collaboration between these two whiskey masters.
Rhea and Robinson worked together to create the resulting Scottish inspired edition by blending 4yr old, 5yr old, 8yr old, and 9yr old Kentucky Straight Bourbons, with mashbills containing corn, wheat, rye, and malted barley. These specific Bourbons were carefully selected to convey a Scottish inspired Kentucky Straight Bourbon.
“Our latest limited edition release exemplifies the dedication of Kentucky Owl to offer Bourbon enthusiasts a glimpse into the world of Scotch whiskies,” said Robinson. “It has the citrus perfumed floral green notes with hints of sweetness and oak reminiscent of a lighter style Scotch but still keeping all the credentials of a bourbon.”
This collaboration also signifies the end of one chapter and the beginning of another as Kentucky Owl recently announced that Robinson is assuming the position of Master Blender, held by Rhea over the past 2 years. “Having the opportunity to craft the Maighstir Edition alongside Maureen instills me with great confidence that Kentucky Owl is in exceptional hands, as Maureen steps into her role as Master Blender,” commented Rhea.
This Scotch-inspired bourbon whiskey emerges as the perfect undertaking to coincide with Maureen taking the helm. As one of the 60 Whisky Hall of Famers and distinguished as one of a small group of female ‘Masters of the Quaich’ worldwide, her presence further strengthens the brand’s commitment to honoring artisanship and heritage. “It’s been an absolute pleasure to work with John to create a liquid that is rich in the tradition of Kentucky distillation with the timeless allure of Scotland’s whisky craftsmanship,” added Robinson.
On the nose, the blend reveals subtle notes of small grains, notably malted barley with a hint of sweet caramel. The palate features a warm and spicy sweetness from the rye. Then, the gentle flavors of wheat and barley come in, making the taste soothing. As it melts the liquid reveals hints of orange and grapefruit, and it finishes with mild flavors of caramel and vanilla.
Bottled at 50% ABV, the Kentucky Owl Maighstir Edition will be available for $150 per bottle. For more information, head over to the brand’s official website.
In November, Kentucky Owl unveiled two new whiskeys, Mardi Gras XO Cask Limited Edition and Batch #12.