King of Kentucky Small Batch #1 is a limited-release Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey from Brown-Forman, representing the first-ever small batch offering from this storied brand since its 2018 revival. This is Batch 1 of a three-batch collection released in early 2026 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States and the founding of Kentucky County. Sold as a case of six 750mL bottles with a limit of one per customer.

Each batch was assembled from approximately 100 carefully selected barrels aged between 12 and 18 years at the Brown-Forman Distillery in Shively, Kentucky, under the direction of Master Distiller Chris Morris. The mash bill is composed of 75% corn, 15% rye, and 10% malted barley, and Batch 1 is bottled at 105 proof (52.5% ABV). Among the three batches, Batch 1 is regarded as the most rounded and approachable expression. It earned 94 points from Whisky Advocate.

On the nose, Batch 1 offers sweet aromatics of chocolate, caramel, toasted marshmallow, dried apricot, and clove, with deeper notes of fragrant tobacco leaf, smoky barrel char, and dark chocolate. The palate delivers spicy melted caramel and dark chocolate alongside smooth oak and toasted coconut, with an exceptionally silky mouthfeel. The finish is moderately long with notes of chocolate, peanuts, warm spice, and a hint of candied orange. Suggested retail price is $299 per bottle.