Watch Hill Whiskey, the Kentucky‑based brand known for limited releases, has announced two new expressions that will debut in early 2026. The distillery’s Exceptional Series returns with Batch 03, a 128‑proof blend of 18‑year‑old Kentucky straight bourbons. Co‑founder Tommy Craggs explained that the Exceptional Series is only used for bourbons that truly merit the name, and that the combination of three hand‑selected 18‑year barrels created something “profoundly special”
Complementing the bourbon is Chef Series Batch 01, the first in a new annual rye program. Executive Chef Michael Crouch selected the rye casks himself, blending 12‑year‑old rye whiskeys into a 130.4‑proof expression with spice and complexity. Crouch said that rye’s evolving flavours have long appealed to him and he was humbled to have a whiskey bearing his name.
Both releases are extremely limited. Chef Series Batch 01 is already available at Watch Hill Whiskey’s home base in Prospect, Kentucky for $249 per bottle, while Exceptional Series Batch 03 will go on sale 6 January 2026 at $449.
The distillery describes the bourbon as rich and balanced, and the rye as bold yet refined. Collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate aged Kentucky whiskey and chef‑inspired spirits may find these releases particularly noteworthy.
