Copper & Kings American Brandy Co. is releasing a limited-edition absinthe aged seven and a half years in ex-brandy barrels—a departure from the industry norm of months-long wood aging for the spirit. The Louisville distillery is offering the release in two tiers. Kings Bottle Club members will receive a 132.1-proof bottling in November for $100, sealed in black wax reserved for club releases and never sold outside membership. A higher-proof variant, 146.2 proof, will be available exclusively at the distillery's Washington Street location for $175. "We make American brandy," said Rob Bourdon, owner and CEO of Copper & Kings. "A cellar like ours holds a few surprises, and this is one of them. Seven and a half years in the brandy barrel made it something we had to share. We split it in two ways: one for our members, and one for anyone who comes to see us." The absinthe is distilled from a brandy base, staying true to Copper & Kings' heritage. The Kings Bottle Club, the distillery's quarterly membership program, carries a $135 per-quarter subscription with a four-quarter minimum commitment and focuses on aged American brandies and rare cask finishes. New members can add the absinthe to their first shipment while supplies last.

Why It Matters

Long-aged absinthe remains a niche category, and extended barrel maturation can substantially shift the spirit's flavor profile and marketability. For on-premise and retail operators, limited-release tiers—member-exclusive versus walk-in—create dual revenue streams and strengthen customer loyalty programs.


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Written by FBM Publications Editors