Stoli Group is pleased to announce the release of its latest collaboration, Kentucky Owl Maighstir Edition. Available across the U.S., the Maighstir Edition is the third international collaboration limited edition release from Kentucky Owl, demonstrating the brand’s imaginative take on making classic bourbon.
Due to the collaboration between Master Blender John Rhea and the new Kentucky Owl Master Blender Maureen Robinson, Maighstir Edition pays homage to the rich whiskey traditions of both the United States and Scotland. This release celebrates the artful craft of blending high-quality liquid and the different flavors and taste profiles each country has become famous for in making their whiskeys. This bourbon brings the best Scotch whisky blending skills to Kentucky Owl’s bourbon range. “Maighstir” (pronounced may-stir) translates as ‘Master’ in Gaelic, authentically highlighting the wonderful collaboration between these two great whiskey masters.
Rhea and Robinson collaborated to create the resulting Scottish-inspired edition by blending 4-year-old, 5-year-old, 8-year-old and 9-year-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 Maureen 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 John Rhea.
This Scottish-inspired bourbon whiskey is 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 rich in the tradition of Kentucky distillation with the timeless allure of Scotland’s whisky craftsmanship,” continued Robinson.
On the nose, the blend reveals subtle notes of small grains, notably malted barley with a hint of sweet caramel. The balance of grains with the sweetness of caramel and vanilla pays homage to the art of blending exceptional bourbon, seen through the perspective of Scotland’s heritage.
The palate has a warm and spicy sweetness from the rye, which is expected from a great bourbon. Then, the gentle flavors of wheat and barley make the taste soothing. As it melts, the liquid reveals hints of orange and grapefruit. Finished with mild flavors of caramel and vanilla.
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