The Maison Ferrand Finish II is the much-anticipated second release in the Bardstown Bourbon Company's acclaimed Collaborative Series. This limited-edition expression is a magnificent transatlantic marriage, blending the robust character of Kentucky Straight Whiskey with the subtle elegance of fine French Cognac.

Why Buy the Bardstown Ferrand II?

This release is a triumph of innovation, blending highly-aged Kentucky Bourbon with Bardstown's own rye whiskey before finishing the lot for 15 months in rare Maison Ferrand Cognac casks. It is a certified award-winner, having been honored with a Double Gold Medal at the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition. Securing this bottle means owning a benchmark expression in modern American whiskey finishing.

The Background & Craftsmanship

The Bardstown Collaborative Series is dedicated to pushing flavor boundaries through partnership. For this release, the distillery blended a complex combination of aged Kentucky Bourbons and high-rye whiskey (components aged between 6 and 12 years). The spirit was then sent to France's renowned Maison Ferrand—a celebrated producer of exceptional Cognac—to receive their prized finishing casks. The resulting marriage of American grain and French fruit/oak is seamless, layered, and utterly unique.

The Final Blend

The base spirit is a high-proof Blend of Straight Whiskey aged from 6 to 12 years, combined and then finished for 15 months in Maison Ferrand Cognac Casks.

• Type: Blend of Straight Whiskey

• Component Ages: 6 to 12 Years (Kentucky Bourbons and Rye)

• Proof: 111.8 Proof (55.9% ABV)

• Secondary Finish: 15 Months in Maison Ferrand Cognac Casks

Fun Fact: The Rye Influence

Unlike the first Ferrand collaboration, the Finish II introduces Bardstown’s own high-rye component (a 95% Rye mash bill) into the blend. This was a deliberate choice by the Master Blenders to add "spice and structure," ensuring the final whiskey has enough backbone to stand up to—and beautifully integrate with—the rich, fruity influence of the Cognac barrels.

Tasting Notes & Profile

The profile is full-bodied, complex, and highly refined, earning its Double Gold status.

• Tasting Notes: Decadent black cherry, toasted oak, vanilla cream, and rye spice lead to a palate of baked apple, pecan, and raisin. The full-bodied flavor continues through the finish, creating a balance of rich bourbon and premium cognac, with a kiss of mint.

Serving & Signature Ritual

The high proof and complex, layered flavor profile make this an exceptional slow-sipper.

• Savour It: Enjoy neat in a Glencairn glass to appreciate the rich, full-bodied balance of French fruit and American spice. Add a few drops of water to fully open up the layers of dark cherry and vanilla cream.

• Cocktail Sophistication: The unique Cognac influence and rye spice make this a stunning, high-proof choice for a refined Vieux Carré or an elevated Old Fashioned.

Our Guarantee

Authenticity & Scarcity Guaranteed. This is a highly limited annual release in the Collaborative Series. Due to the scarcity of the Maison Ferrand casks and the precise aging required, the Ferrand Finish II will NOT be restocked once this batch is sold out. Secure this award-winning expression for your collection today.