Spirits · California (bourbon from Kentucky)
Duke Spirits
Kentucky bourbon inspired by John Wayne's own notes and blends.
- Founded
- 2013
- Founded by
- Ethan Wayne, Chris Radomski
- Based in
- California (bourbon from Kentucky)
Making it since
2013
Their story
Duke Spirits was started in 2013 by Ethan Wayne, son of actor John Wayne, together with winemaker Chris Radomski. The idea came from a discovery in a family vault: notes from 1962 and samples of bourbon blends John Wayne had been experimenting with.
The partners set out to build a bourbon around those notes, working with the O.Z. Tyler Distillery in Owensboro, Kentucky. The range has since grown to include Founder's Reserve bourbon and rye, along with tequilas also inspired by Wayne's blends.
How it's made
The flagship Kentucky Straight Bourbon is a blend of bourbons aged at least five years, made from a mash bill of 75% corn, 13% rye and 12% barley and bottled at 88 proof. It is produced in Owensboro, Kentucky, with the Founder's Reserve line offering higher-proof, longer-aged expressions.
Why we carry them
We like Duke for a smooth, easygoing bourbon with a good story behind it. It makes a fun gift for any classic Western fan.
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