RICHMOND, VA (May 2026) — River City Whiskey is proud to announce that its Kentucky Straight Bourbon Small Batch #1 has been awarded Double Platinum and Platinum at the 2026 ASCOT Awards.
“A bold small-batch bourbon with a deep brown sugar/aged-rum nose, layered with warm baking spices. This unfolds with depth and complexity. Powerful at 62.7% ABV, yet impressively controlled.” — ASCOT
Winning in two categories, Small Batch Bourbon — 6-10 Years and Blend of Straight Bourbon, this remarkable batch of cask-strength barrels is the first blend released by River City Whiskey. This follows the 2025 Double Platinum Ascot Award win for the distillery’s inaugural single barrel release, the Beaver Bridge Barrel.
The Kentucky Small Batch #1 is the first of many blended expressions planned by the founders, Ricky Rice and Da’Mon Brown, both known and trusted to see the proof in the pick, after leading Central Virginia’s largest barrel pick groups, Brown Water Select (BWS). This standout small batch release is a testament to River City Whiskey’s passion for curating bold, distinct spirits that honor the craft and culture of bourbon through connection.
“Well balanced at 125 proof. Lingering on the palate with prominent spices and a hint of hot honey. This will warm you up on a chilly evening.” — ASCOT
Fans looking to get early access to future releases like these can join the River City Barrel Collective, a membership program offering exclusive quarterly single barrel releases and first access to public drops. It’s the best way to sip what’s next from River City before it hits the market.
About River City Whiskey
Made for the people who appreciate a modern take on tradition, River City Whiskey hand-selects the finest bourbons from passionate distillers across state lines, curating each batch with remarkable flavor. Every pour comes with a story and maybe even an inside joke, and we’re dedicated to rolling those tales of flavor into your favorite rotation.
For media inquiries, please contact:
info@therivercitywhiskey.com
