Jefferson's Manhattan Barrel Finished Cocktail

This cocktail wonder is a love at first sip!

Jefferson’s was founded in 1997 by Trey Zoeller and his father Chet — a famed Bourbon historian, who wrote the book on Kentucky distilleries. Yes, an actual book called "Bourbon in Kentucky: A History of Distilleries in Kentucky." Heck, distilling is in their blood. In fact, eight generations ago, their great-great-grandmother was arrested for the "production and sales of spirituous liquors" in 1799. Which probably makes her the coolest ancestor ever!

They make a range of specialty Bourbons and Rye Whiskeys — including a very interesting "Ocean Aged at Sea" product that gets a lot of attention. In 2007, Jefferson’s was sold to Castle Brands, as they build their own liquor empire of premium Spirits.

First things first... Jefferson´s Manhattan is a barrel-aged cocktail. Never had one before? If you like a great Whiskey cocktail like we do, then you won’t go back. Remember how James Bond always wants his drink "shaken, not stirred?" Well, you can put 007 to shame when you take your cocktail barrel-aged. They start with their premium Jefferson’s Reserve Bourbon. Then they put it into 53 gallon barrels with equal parts sweet and dry Vermouth, and some barrel aged, spiced black cherry bitters to age it all a little more for a true cocktail wonder. And they DO NOT shortchange you on the cut either… They place it in an ex-Bourbon barrel for 4 months, which takes the Manhattan to new unprecedented heights. This is bottled at 68 proof, so all that’s left for you to do is just pour, chill, and serve.