The Cream of Kentucky brand traces its roots back to 1888, when it was first introduced by I. Trager & Co. in Cincinnati, Ohio. It gained widespread popularity during the 1930s and 1940s, aided by marketing artwork from the famed Norman Rockwell. Today, the brand is owned by legendary distiller Jim Rutledge, who chose it to mark the inaugural release from his new venture, the J.W. Rutledge Distillery.

Jim Rutledge stands as one of the most influential and respected figures in the history of American bourbon. Beginning his career with Seagram in 1968, he went on to become Master Distiller at Four Roses in 1994, where his vision and craftsmanship single-handedly revived the brand from obscurity to global recognition. Known for his uncompromising dedication to quality and authenticity, Rutledge restored Four Roses to its rightful place among Kentucky’s finest distilleries, earning countless industry awards and inspiring a new generation of distillers. Even after retiring in 2015, his passion never waned. Jim went on to establish the J.W. Rutledge Distillery and resurrect the iconic Cream of Kentucky label, continuing to shape the bourbon landscape with the same mastery and integrity that define his legendary career.

Tasting Notes:

Amber in color, this whiskey opens with aromas of caramel, vanilla, and baking spice, accompanied by a touch of heat from its 115.2 proof. After a few minutes in the glass, the alcohol edge fades, allowing notes of oak and soft fruit to emerge. On the palate, caramel and vanilla lead the way, true to its “Double Rich” style. The texture is smooth and pleasantly sweet, with oak and spice settling toward the back. The finish is long and warming, with a gentle spice that lingers without overwhelming.

• APPEARANCE: Amber
• AROMA: Caramel, vanilla, and baking spice, with a touch of heat. Letting it rest in the glass will subdue the alcohol “bite”
• TASTE: Smooth and pleasantly sweet notes of caramel and vanilla lead the way, true to its “Double Rich” style, followed by oak and spice toward the back
• FINISH: Long and warming, with gentle spice that lingers without overwhelming
• ABV: 57.6%