Stitzel-Weller Distillery has released a striking new bourbon that combines two of the rarest traits in American whiskey: extreme age and extreme proof. Stitzel Reserve 31-Year Bourbon is aged for more than three decades and bottled at 163.2 proof, or 81.6% ABV, making it one of the most powerful bourbons to reach the market in recent memory. The whiskey is also highly limited, drawn from just 13 barrels distilled in Kentucky and matured on-site at Stitzel-Weller for more than 30 years.
The release marks the third time in as many years that the distillery has unveiled a 30-plus-year bourbon. It follows I.W. Harper 34-Year Bourbon, which drew attention for its tiny output and auction sales, and Blade and Bow 30-Year Bourbon, which was blended from 42 barrels and consolidated around the 15-year mark to help preserve flavor during aging. In contrast, Stitzel Reserve 31-Year Bourbon was created from barrels that were never consolidated, meaning each barrel spent its entire life aging independently before being blended together by Master Blender Nicole Austin.
That difference is important because ultra-aged bourbons often develop dramatically different profiles depending on how they were managed over time. According to the review, the new release offers a very layered and complex experience, with notes of cherry cordials, plums, coffee beans, dark chocolate, smoked honey, leather, pipe tobacco, vanilla, black cherry, orange marmalade, candied green apple, black pepper, salted toffee, and mature oak. The finish is described as especially long, lingering for minutes with dark fruit, spice, and leather notes.
The bourbon’s proof level is a major part of its identity. At 163.2 proof, it is far above many celebrated barrel-strength bourbons and even exceeds the high-proof releases of other well-known labels. The review notes that while the intensity can be distracting, the whiskey still delivers exceptional richness and depth. Its powerful alcohol presence means it is best enjoyed with the right palate and setting, rather than casually.
The tasting impression is that Stitzel Reserve 31-Year Bourbon is not just a novelty, but a serious expression of what very old bourbon can become when handled carefully. It is described as bold, decadent, and memorable, with enough complexity to stand apart from younger whiskeys and enough force to challenge even experienced drinkers.
Bottles are sold exclusively at Stitzel-Weller Distillery with a suggested retail price of $3,000.
