The legend lives on.

One of the first distilleries and producers of Whiskey in the United States dating back to the dawn of the American Revolution which grew into one of the staples of the 19th century Spirit nobility. It stayed as such until it fell from grace in the mid-20th century. There are tons of great stories about the original James E. Pepper who owned the brand and distillery in the 1800s. Our favorite is that he is credited with introducing the Old Fashioned cocktail at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel in New York while on a promotional trip there for his Whiskeys.

James E. Pepper is a household name in the American Whiskey culture, so we’re glad the company is back on top where it belongs. To create this renaissance of sorts, the new owners have spent ages going through the archives to recreate the recipes that made the original so iconic. The fans and critics all agree – their Whiskeys are quality through and through.

You only need to look as far as James E. Pepper 1776 Rye Whiskey Sherry Cask to see what we’re talking about. This limited release represents the best of both, old and new world Whiskey making techniques as we’re talking about a traditional American Rye which has been finished like a fine Scotch. The Rye spice comes at you like a blast, while the Sherry gives it its nutty twist. All that rich flavor comes from its high-rye mash bill — a full 90% rye grain — and the fact that it is bottled at 50% ABV without chill filtration.

We just love a good comeback story. The James E. Pepper brand is experiencing their best moment in history. Good for them and good for us.

The legend lives on.