The scent of Delaware River mist mingles with oak barrel char as spring returns to Lambertville, and with it comes Malloy Hall's 2026 Shad Fest Bourbon Whiskey, a limited release celebrating New Jersey's storied fishing tradition. This handcrafted bourbon whiskey showcases a thoughtful mash bill of 54% corn, 16% rye, and 20% malted barley, bottled at 43% ABV to honor the annual festival where the Delaware's shad run signals winter's end. Master Blender Jeffrey Karlovitch and The Distillery at Lambertville have crafted this expression as a tribute to the town's riverside heritage, where each spring brings both migrating fish and the promise of renewal. This bourbon captures the spirit of community celebration, blending traditional American whiskey-making with the artisanal approach that defines New Jersey's emerging craft distilling scene.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Sweet corn bread, river stones warmed by morning sun, vanilla bean, gentle baking spices, hints of fresh spring grass
• Palate: Creamy caramel, rye pepper bite, toasted grain, maple syrup drizzled over buttermilk biscuits, subtle oak tannins
• Finish: Medium length with lingering warmth, black pepper spice, honey sweetness, and whispers of charred oak

Product Details

Spirit Type	Bourbon Whiskey
ABV	43.0%
Volume	750ml
Age Statement	No Age Statement
Release Year	2026
Distillery	The Distillery at Lambertville
Region	Lambertville, New Jersey
Mash Bill	54% Corn, 16% Rye, 20% Malted Barley
Master Blender	Jeffrey Karlovitch

Perfect For

• Spring Festival Celebrations: Honoring seasonal traditions with friends and family
• Riverside Evening Sips: Watching the sun set over the Delaware while savoring neat pours
• Collector's Cabinet: A unique piece of New Jersey distilling history and festival memorabilia
• Gift for Local Spirit Enthusiasts: Perfect for those who appreciate craft distilling and regional character

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Malloy Hall Shad Fest Bourbon taste like?

This bourbon offers a harmonious balance of sweet corn foundation with spicy rye complexity. The 54% corn provides creamy caramel and vanilla notes, while the 16% rye adds peppery spice and structure. The malted barley contributes subtle grain sweetness, creating a well-rounded profile that's both approachable and interesting.

Is Malloy Hall Shad Fest Bourbon good for cocktails?

At 43% ABV, this bourbon works beautifully in classic whiskey cocktails like Old Fashioneds or Manhattans, where its balanced mash bill provides both sweetness and spice. However, given its limited release nature and festival significance, many collectors prefer to enjoy it neat to fully appreciate its crafted character.

How should I drink Malloy Hall Shad Fest Bourbon?

This bourbon shines when sipped neat or with a splash of spring water to open up its flavors. The 43% ABV makes it very approachable without dilution, allowing you to taste the careful balance Jeffrey Karlovitch achieved between corn sweetness and rye spice. Serve in a Glencairn glass at room temperature.

What makes this Shad Fest release special?

This limited release commemorates Lambertville's annual Shad Festival, celebrating the town's connection to the Delaware River's spring shad run. It represents both a specific moment in time and place, crafted by Master Blender Jeffrey Karlovitch to honor local traditions while showcasing New Jersey's growing reputation for quality craft spirits.

What is similar to Malloy Hall Shad Fest Bourbon?

Fans of craft bourbons with balanced mash bills might enjoy other small-batch releases with similar corn-forward profiles. The rye content provides spice similar to many Kentucky straight bourbons, while the craft distillery approach mirrors other artisanal American whiskeys from regional producers focused on local character.

You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.