A special new limited edition release from Kentucky Owl, Maighstir Edition, is mixing the best of Scotch and bourbon distilling.

A result of the collaboration between Kentucky Owl master blenders John Rhea and revered former Johnnie Walker master blender Maureen Robinson, Maighstir Edition pays homage to the rich whiskey traditions of both the United States and Scotland.

On the nose of the Maighstir Edition is a sweet scent of small grains (wheat and barley) with a hint of caramel and vanilla. However, to taste, you get the initial hit of warmth and spice from the rye, which transitions to more citrus-forward flavours of orange and grapefruit as it melts in the mouth for a very velvety finish.

Maighstir (pronounced may-stir) directly translates to ‘master’ in Gaelic. The blend includes 4 year old, 5 year old, 8 year old, and 9 year old Kentucky straight bourbons with mash bills containing corn, wheat, and malted barley.

“Having the opportunity to craft the Maighstir Edition alongside Maureen instills me with great confidence that Kentucky Owl is in exceptional hands, as Maureen steps into her role as master blender,” Rhea said. 

Robinson (above) was in Australia this week for the launch of Maighstir Edition. It was fascinating to hear about her incredible career, which included spending 45 years at Diageo, where she was one of the first women to hold the title of master blender. Her work centered around iconic brands including Johnnie Walker, Old Parr, Buchanan’s and Singleton.

She was appointed a Keeper of the Quaich in 2012 and was inducted into the Scotch Whisky Hall of Fame in 2019. She retired from Diageo in 2022 and was hoping to play more golf, but was enticed to join Kentucky Owl as its new master blender by the prospect of working with a new spirit.

“I was inspired by Kentucky Owl’s forward-thinking mindset; wanting to capitalise on current consumer interest in craft spirits,” she said.

“The Maighstir Project was a bit of an experiment. One that was incredibly enjoyable to be immersed in, and I think the final product really speaks to our combined creativity and love of dark spirits.”

The Maighstir Edition is best enjoyed neat or served over ice. You will find this extremely limited blend in store at
barrelandbatch.com.au with an RRP of $220.

Stoli Group builds Kentucky Owl Distillery

Stoli Group, which purchased Kentucky Owl in 2017, is currently constructing the Kentucky Owl Park, which will comprise a distillery, visitor centre and bottling centre, in addition to rick houses and a restaurant.

The design features unique pyramid-shaped buildings and is located in a former limestone quarry, right in the middle of Bardstown, Kentucky, known as the Bourbon Capital of the World.