Chicken Cock Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey
Let's address the elephant in the room right away. Yes, it's called Chicken Cock.
The name inevitably gets a smile, a raised eyebrow, or a joke from nearly everyone who encounters the bottle for the first time. But behind the playful branding lies one of the most intriguing stories in American whiskey history—a story that stretches back 170 years and includes saloons, Prohibition-era smuggling, organized crime lore, and a remarkable modern revival.
While many whiskey brands spend millions trying to create heritage, Chicken Cock actually has it. And once you get past the name, you'll find a surprisingly well-crafted bourbon that delivers exactly what many enthusiasts are looking for: bold flavor, respectable proof, and a profile that remains approachable enough to enjoy neat.
Chicken Cock Whiskey traces its roots back to 1856 in Paris, Kentucky, making it one of America's oldest whiskey brands. Long before today's bourbon boom, Chicken Cock had already established itself as a respected name in Kentucky whiskey. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the brand gained popularity throughout the United States and became particularly well-known in bars and social clubs.
The brand also developed a reputation among some of the era's most colorful characters. Historical accounts often connect Chicken Cock to underground nightlife and organized crime figures who frequented the speakeasy scene.
Unfortuntatly, like many American whiskey brands, Chicken Cock eventually faded into obscurity as the decades passed. But unlike countless forgotten labels, Chicken Cock received a second chance.
In 2012, the brand was revived with the goal of honoring its heritage while producing premium whiskey for modern bourbon drinkers. Today, Chicken Cock is owned by Grain & Barrel Spirits and has steadily rebuilt its reputation through a growing portfolio of bourbons, rye whiskeys, and limited releases. The result is a whiskey brand that feels simultaneously historic and contemporary—a rare balance in today's crowded marketplace.
Chicken Cock Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, like all the bottles in the core portfolio, underwent a branding overhaul earlier this year. This bottle is affectionately known as "Russell" and each release is limited to 15 barrel batches. Aged at least 4 years, the mash bill is corn (70%), rye (21%) and malted barley (9%). This is bottled at 100 proof after resting in barrels with char level 3, medium toast.
Medium gold with aromas of stone fruits, roasted nuts, honey and caramel. Dried apricot, vanilla, saddle leather, cardamom and peppercorn play well together, providing a creamy and tasty experience that is soft and welcoming on the finish. Everything we have tasted from Chicken Cock to date has been very well received!
