Pinhook 2026 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a bold, unfiltered 100-proof expression from Castle & Key Distillery in Frankfort, celebrating the racehorse Bourbon Betty with the signature vintage approach that defines this pioneering Kentucky brand. From the limestone-filtered springs of Frankfort comes this exceptional bourbon that embodies Pinhook's revolutionary vintage philosophy. Like the thoroughbreds that inspire each release, this whiskey captures the essence of its specific year, blended by BigShooter with a custom mash bill that showcases the terroir of Kentucky's bourbon heartland. Each bottle tells the story of Bourbon Betty, connecting the traditions of horse racing and whiskey making that run deep through the bluegrass.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Charred oak, vanilla bean, caramel corn, honeyed grain, warm baking spices
• Palate: Bold corn sweetness, leather, dark cherry, cinnamon bark, toasted almonds
• Finish: Long with lingering oak char, black pepper, and honey warmth

Product Details

Spirit Type	Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
ABV	50.0% (100 Proof)
Volume	750ml
Age Statement	NAS (No Age Statement)
Release Year	2026
Distillery	Castle & Key
Region	Frankfort, Kentucky
Mash Bill	Custom mash bill
Filtration	Unfiltered
Featured Horse	Bourbon Betty

Perfect For

• Neat Sipping: The 100-proof backbone delivers full flavor intensity for serious bourbon appreciation
• Classic Cocktails: Bold enough to stand up beautifully in Old Fashioneds and Manhattans
• Derby Day Celebrations: Honor the horse racing tradition with this thoroughbred-inspired bourbon
• Whiskey Collectors: Each vintage release captures a unique moment in Kentucky bourbon history

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Pinhook 2026 bourbon taste like?

Pinhook 2026 delivers bold Kentucky bourbon character with charred oak and vanilla on the nose, followed by rich corn sweetness, leather, and dark cherry on the palate. The 100-proof strength provides robust flavor without overwhelming heat, finishing long with oak char and warming spices.

Is Pinhook 2026 good for cocktails?

Yes, this bourbon excels in cocktails thanks to its 100-proof strength and bold flavor profile. It maintains its character when mixed with other ingredients and stands up beautifully to dilution, making it ideal for Old Fashioneds, Boulevardiers, and whiskey sours.

How should I drink Pinhook 2026 bourbon?

Enjoy this bourbon neat to appreciate its full character, or add a splash of water to open up the flavors. It also performs excellently on the rocks, where slight dilution reveals additional complexity while maintaining the bold Kentucky bourbon profile.

What makes Pinhook's vintage approach unique?

Pinhook treats bourbon like wine vintages, with each annual release capturing the unique characteristics of its specific year and honoring a different racehorse. This approach creates distinct expressions that reflect both the terroir and the story of Kentucky's bourbon and racing heritage.

Is Pinhook 2026 similar to other Kentucky bourbons?

While sharing the classic Kentucky bourbon DNA of corn-forward sweetness and oak influence, Pinhook's custom mash bill and unfiltered presentation create a distinctive profile. Fans of bold, proof-forward bourbons like Wild Turkey 101 or Old Forester Signature will appreciate this expression's character and complexity.

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