J. W. Rutledge Cream of Kentucky Small Batch Straight Bourbon 750mL

J. W. Rutledge Cream of Kentucky Small Batch Straight Bourbon

Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey | 50% ABV (100 Proof) | 750mL | Small Batch | Revived by Jim Rutledge

Process & Profile

J. W. Rutledge Cream of Kentucky Small Batch Straight Bourbon is a 100 proof Kentucky straight bourbon tied to one of the oldest names in American whiskey. The Cream of Kentucky brand was originally introduced in 1888, later became closely associated with Schenley after Prohibition, and was famously promoted with artwork by Norman Rockwell. Today, the brand has been revived under J.W. Rutledge with longtime Master Distiller Jim Rutledge guiding its return.

This small batch release is built around Cream of Kentucky’s historic “Double-Rich” flavor promise, offering a smooth, full-bodied bourbon profile with fruit, sweetness, oak, and spice working together. Bottled at 100 proof, it has enough strength to give the whiskey structure without overwhelming its softer fruit and dessert notes. The official profile highlights honeyed pome fruits, orange blossoms, crème brûlée, banana, Honeycrisp apple, soft oak, and lingering honeyed sweetness.

For customers looking for a Jim Rutledge bourbon, a historic revived whiskey label, or a rich 100 proof small batch Kentucky straight bourbon, Cream of Kentucky Small Batch offers strong story value and approachable sipping appeal. It works well neat, over ice, and in classic bourbon cocktails where a fuller proof and rounded sweetness can stand out.

Tasting Notes

• Honeyed pome fruits and orange blossoms on the nose
• Crème brûlée and soft vanilla sweetness
• Hints of banana and Honeycrisp apple
• Caramel, toasted oak, and baking spice
• Smooth, rounded texture with gentle warmth
• Lingering finish with deep honeyed sweetness and soft oak

What Makes It Special

• Historic Cream of Kentucky bourbon brand originally introduced in 1888
• Revived under J.W. Rutledge with Jim Rutledge’s whiskey expertise
• Bottled at 100 proof for added structure and flavor
• Small batch Kentucky straight bourbon with a rich, fruit-forward profile
• Carries the brand’s classic “Double-Rich” flavor identity
• Official tasting profile includes honeyed fruit, orange blossom, crème brûlée, banana, apple, oak, and honey
• Strong choice for fans of Jim Rutledge, revived heritage brands, and classic Kentucky bourbon

How to Enjoy

J. W. Rutledge Cream of Kentucky Small Batch Straight Bourbon is best enjoyed neat in a whiskey glass to appreciate its honeyed fruit, crème brûlée, banana, apple, oak, and spice. Let it rest briefly before sipping so the sweeter fruit and dessert notes can open.

A large ice cube can soften the 100 proof structure and bring forward more caramel, vanilla, and honey. For cocktails, use it in an Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Whiskey Sour, Boulevardier, or bourbon highball. Its proof and rounded sweetness make it especially useful in cocktails that benefit from a richer bourbon base.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What does J. W. Rutledge Cream of Kentucky Small Batch Straight Bourbon taste like?
   J. W. Rutledge Cream of Kentucky Small Batch Straight Bourbon tastes rich and smooth, with honeyed pome fruits, orange blossom, crème brûlée, banana, Honeycrisp apple, caramel, soft oak, baking spice, and lingering honey sweetness.
2. What proof is J. W. Rutledge Cream of Kentucky Small Batch Straight Bourbon?
   J. W. Rutledge Cream of Kentucky Small Batch Straight Bourbon is bottled at 50% ABV, which equals 100 proof.
3. Who revived J. W. Rutledge Cream of Kentucky Small Batch Straight Bourbon?
   J. W. Rutledge Cream of Kentucky Small Batch Straight Bourbon was revived under J.W. Rutledge, with Jim Rutledge guiding the return of the historic Cream of Kentucky bourbon brand.
4. Is J. W. Rutledge Cream of Kentucky Small Batch Straight Bourbon good for cocktails?
   Yes. J. W. Rutledge Cream of Kentucky Small Batch Straight Bourbon works well in an Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Whiskey Sour, Boulevardier, or bourbon highball because its 100 proof strength helps it stay flavorful in mixed drinks.
5. Where can I buy J. W. Rutledge Cream of Kentucky Small Batch Straight Bourbon?
   You can buy J. W. Rutledge Cream of Kentucky Small Batch Straight Bourbon directly from The Barrel Tap, a trusted online source for Kentucky bourbon, small batch whiskey, and premium spirits.