Editor’s Note: We received a review sample of this whisky from the brand, but in accordance with our editorial guidelines, this did not influence the outcome of our review in any way.
Founded by father and son whiskey blenders Rick and Ricky Johnson, 15 Stars has made a name for itself since launching online in 2022. The brand has received over 100 of the world’s most coveted whiskey awards, including several “Best in Class” awards. Operations are run out of Bardstown, Kentucky, where 15 Stars works with a partner distillery (likely Bardstown Bourbon Co.) to distill over a dozen different whiskey mashes, some of which feature unique specialty corn varieties (black, red, white and blue) that the family grows for their gourmet specialty popcorn company, Black Jewell Popcorn.
In addition, 15 Stars has a stock of aged whiskeys that are regularly released as unique offerings. The brand’s name pays homage to Kentucky as the 15th state. Kentucky is featured on the second U.S. flag with 15 stars and 15 stripes, approved by President George Washington in 1795.
What’s in the bottle
The whiskey reviewed today, 15 Stars Timeless Reserve Fine-Aged Bourbon Aged 13 Years, is an updated version of the brand’s 2022 debut, Timeless Reserve. Based on the previously mentioned aged whiskey inventory, it is a blend of 13 and 15 year old Kentucky Straight Bourbon whiskeys bottled at 103 proof and boasting an age statement of 13 years.
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“Timeless Reserve was our debut when 15 Stars first hit shelves,” said Ricky Johnson when announcing the bourbon. “It has remained one of our favorites over the years and we are thrilled to have the opportunity to relaunch the expression with this updated age statement.”
15 Stars Timeless Reserve costs $279.
