2XO GEM OF KENTUCKY 2024 EDITION
SINGLE BARREL KENTUCKY STRAIGHT BOURBON WHISKEY
KENTUCKY, USA
Why Buy: The only double-barreled single barrel bourbon in the market (6-7 years in original new charred oak, followed by an additional 8-14 months in a second new charred oak barrel), this uniquely rich and viscous bourbon, the premier offering from 2XO, rises above a vast and crowded landscape — and shows once more that the independent producer-disruptor is doing some of the best work in the industry.
The Producer: The bourbon scene has exploded this century, with the number of distilleries in Kentucky increasing five-fold in less than two decades. 2XO, founded by Dixon Dedman, a scion of Kentucky bourbon royalty, has taken a rare path to create separation, shunning trends and instead choosing to refine traditional methods. This latest release showcases slightly older barrels than its predecessor, and demonstrates the brand's commitment to a continuous, and relentless, pursuit of distinction through detail.
Our Tasting Notes: 2XO's unique process begins with a low-proof distillation of Dedman’s high rye mashbill (35%), entering the barrel at around 110 proof. This preserves more of the distillate's unique flavors compared to higher-proof competitors. After 6-7 years in new charred oak, the bourbon is transferred to a second new charred oak barrel for 8-14 months. This double-barreling builds weight, viscosity, and balance. Finally, it's bottled as a single barrel with minimal proofing down, retaining its intensity and robustness. The result? A bourbon with exceptional texture — a rich, almost lush mouthfeel. But this is no one-note drink. We loved its intense wood notes, lending backbone and dimension to the proceedings, and the rich, layered flavors that unfold slowly as you sip. A bourbon of phenomenal complexity, and one that all but commands you to sit with it and savor it.
The Story: The Tasting Table hailed Dedman as one of those "adventurers" in the world of craft spirits "who make something greater than its parts.” His rise to the top ranks of American whiskey blenders speaks to his deep roots in craft, as well as his restless spirit. His family's Beaumont Inn in Harrodsburg, Kentucky, where he learned the art of hospitality, won a James Beard Award in 2015. This heritage informs Dedman's meticulous approach to bourbon-making. He forgoes large teams and committees in favor of his own refined palate. Each 2XO release affirms his founding vision — of pushing bourbon boundaries while respecting tradition. As he told us, in a conversation we had last week about this latest release: "We're definitely coloring within the lines of what it means to be Kentucky Straight Bourbon — we're just using a different crayon."
Fun Fact: Dedman's great-great grandfather, pharmacist Charles Mortimer Dedman, turned a wedding gift of a large tract of land on the banks of the Kentucky River into one of Kentucky’s first distilleries, the C.M. Dedman Distillery. His most popular release? “The Wise Man’s Bourbon."
Our Guarantee: We always buy and source directly from the distiller, so you can be confident that your bourbon will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. Secure yours today!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Winter 2024 (Dec. 20, 2024 - Mar. 21, 2025). All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer not valid in KS, MI, NC, NM, NY, TN, VA, & WA. This offer is for ONE WEEK, or until sold out, and will expire on Monday, August 5, 2024.
