Rare Character Black Maple Hill Small Batch Bourbon 2026 Release 700mL

Rare Character Black Maple Hill Small Batch is a Kentucky straight bourbon whiskey bottled at 95 proof (47.5% ABV), marking the revival of the historic Black Maple Hill label. Built on careful barrel selection rather than a fixed age statement, this small batch bourbon delivers caramel, vanilla bean, toasted oak, and brown sugar sweetness in a classic American whiskey style. Bottled in a 700mL format, it's a smart pick for bourbon drinkers who appreciate depth and balance without a heavy price tag on flavor.

Black Maple Hill built its reputation as a cult-favorite label among bourbon collectors before going quiet for years, and Rare Character has brought the name back with a focus on sourced-barrel Kentucky whiskey and hands-on quality control. Each barrel is evaluated individually for structure, depth, and presence before it earns a place in the batch, so what lands in the bottle reflects real craftsmanship rather than a formula. It's a revival built to honor the original while standing on its own as a genuinely well-made Kentucky straight bourbon.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Caramel, vanilla bean, toasted oak, brown sugar sweetness, citrus peel, honey, and soft baking spice
• Palate: Vanilla, toffee, oak, dried fruit, caramel, orange zest, and gentle cinnamon-rye spice
• Finish: Medium-to-long, warming and balanced, with lingering caramel, oak, dried fruit, and classic Kentucky bourbon sweetness

Product Details

Perfect For

• Weeknight sipping: A neat pour after dinner brings out the caramel and vanilla without overwhelming heat.
• Home bar essentials: A worthy centerpiece bottle for anyone building out a serious bourbon collection.
• Gift ideas: The Black Maple Hill name carries real history, making this a memorable gift for the bourbon enthusiast in your life.
• BBQ and game day: Pour it over a single large cube alongside smoked meats and the caramel-forward profile holds its own.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Rare Character Black Maple Hill good for cocktails or best neat?

This bourbon is versatile enough for both — the caramel, oak, and baking spice notes shine neat or on the rocks, and it also holds up well in an Old Fashioned or Manhattan for those who like a spirit-forward cocktail.

What makes Black Maple Hill different from other bourbons?

Black Maple Hill is a historically respected label now revived by Rare Character, built on individually selected sourced barrels rather than a single fixed recipe, which gives each small batch its own character while keeping a classic Kentucky bourbon profile.

Is this bourbon a good value at this price point?

Yes, for bourbon fans who appreciate barrel-selected small batch releases, this bottle offers the depth and complexity typically found in pricier limited releases while still delivering everyday drinkability.

How should I store or serve this bourbon?

Store the bottle upright in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight, and serve neat, on the rocks, or in your favorite whiskey cocktail to best enjoy its caramel and dried fruit character.

You must be 21 years of age or older to purchase this product.