Elijah Craig has unveiled its Limited-Edition Toasted Barrel Bourbon in celebration of the 2023 Ryder Cup. This special release uses European Toasted Oak Barrels inspired by those utilized in the Lazio wine growing region in Italy. The move follows Elijah Craig’s announcement earlier this year about their multi-year partnership, positioning the Bourbon as the “Official Bourbon” and a Worldwide Supplier for the biennial golf competition.
This limited edition bourbon originates from the matured Elijah Craig Small Batch Bourbon, which undergoes an additional finishing process in new European Oak barrels. Lazio wines, which have roots in Rome, Italy, inspired the barrel’s toast profile. Interestingly, the 2023 Ryder Cup will be hosted at the Marco Simone Golf & Country Club in Rome from September 29th to October 1st.
The European oak’s subtle flavor integration capabilities harmonize the spiciness of the Lazio-inspired toast profile with the pronounced fruity character of the matured Elijah Craig. Initial tasting notes suggest hints of caramel and crème brûlée, while subsequent sips highlight bright fruit notes following undertones of baking spices. The finish is moderately long with a prevailing spice taste. The bourbon attempts to encapsulate the essence of both the U.S. Team’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey and the iconic wine-growing region of the European Team.
Max Stefka, Group Product Director at Elijah Craig Bourbon, expressed his excitement over the release, emphasizing the unique fusion of toasted European Oak and the matured Kentucky Bourbon. He believes that the combination presents a tasting experience worthy of such a prestigious sports event.
Guy Kinnings, the Ryder Cup Director, anticipates that Elijah Craig’s bourbon will enhance the spectator experience in Rome. Additionally, Jeff Price, the Chief Commercial Officer of the PGA of America, praised the limited-edition release as an apt celebration of top-tier golf competition.
The commemorative bottle features multiple design elements related to the Ryder Cup, including a neck label with the trophy image, a gold coin cork with the Ryder Cup logo, and a face label signifying the “Official Bourbon” partnership. Packaged in a gift box, each bottle narrates the story behind this unique offering. Set for a national release in August, this limited edition will retail at an SRP of $99.99.
Elijah Craig continues its association with golf, being recognized as the Official Bourbon and Whiskey Supplier of various PGA events and partnering with key figures in the golf world, like PGA TOUR Professional Golfer Max Homa and sports broadcaster Amanda Balionis-Renner.