Diageo expands premium portfolio with Orphan Barrel Fanged Pursuit Kentucky Straight Bourbon Aged 17 Years

Diageo’s Orphan Barrel collection has expanded its lineup with Fanged Pursuit whiskey, a 17-year-old Kentucky Straight Bourbon that stands out as the first North American non-chill filtered whiskey in the series. This rare and meticulously aged bourbon is designed for collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the craftsmanship of long-aged whiskey.

With only a single batch ever produced, Fanged Pursuit whiskey offers a fleeting opportunity for bourbon connoisseurs to experience a limited-edition expression that will never be replicated. The label’s striking design, featuring a prowling Kentucky bobcat, symbolizes both the whiskey’s bold character and its rarity—just as elusive as the wild predator it represents.

How Is Fanged Pursuit Whiskey Crafted To Enhance Its Flavor And Complexity?

The whiskey is made from a carefully balanced mashbill consisting of 68-74% corn, 18-22% rye, and 8-10% malted barley, which contributes to its distinctive profile. Aged for 17 years in charred American oak barrels, Fanged Pursuit whiskey benefits from an extended maturation process that allows the liquid to develop deep, layered flavors. The aging process enhances the natural interaction between the whiskey and the wood, resulting in a spirit that showcases notes of toasted oak, orchard fruits, and warm spices.

Unlike traditional chill-filtered bourbons, Fanged Pursuit whiskey undergoes a non-chill filtration process, preserving essential fats, proteins, and oils. This technique enhances the whiskey’s mouthfeel, delivering a richer texture and a more robust flavor profile. By retaining these natural components, the whiskey develops an added depth that amplifies its aroma and complexity, ensuring a full-bodied drinking experience.

Why Is Non-Chill Filtration Important For Bourbon Enthusiasts?

Non-chill filtered bourbon retains more of its natural compounds, offering a more authentic taste. Many distillers use chill filtration to remove certain elements that can create a haze when the whiskey is chilled, but this process can also strip away subtle flavor notes. By avoiding chill filtration, Fanged Pursuit whiskey preserves the integrity of its character, ensuring a fuller, richer bourbon experience.

The impact of non-chill filtration is particularly evident in the whiskey’s mouthfeel and finish. The retained oils provide a velvety texture, enhancing the way flavors unfold on the palate. Enthusiasts who prefer a more traditional bourbon experience will appreciate the added complexity that this process delivers, making Fanged Pursuit whiskey a standout in the Orphan Barrel collection.

How Does Fanged Pursuit Whiskey Compare To Other Aged Bourbons?

Aged bourbons are highly sought after for their depth of flavor, and at 17 years, Fanged Pursuit whiskey is among the more mature expressions available on the market. Many bourbons are aged between six and twelve years, with fewer reaching the 15-to-20-year mark due to evaporation losses and the risk of over-oaking. The aging process for Fanged Pursuit whiskey has been carefully managed to ensure that it retains a balanced profile, where the oak influence complements rather than dominates the spirit.

The combination of a high-corn mashbill and non-chill filtration results in a bourbon that is both smooth and full-bodied, delivering a well-rounded experience with layers of vanilla, caramel, and spice. The extended maturation also enhances its complexity, providing a depth that distinguishes it from younger bourbons. With a refined balance of sweetness, oak, and spice, Fanged Pursuit whiskey appeals to those who seek a sophisticated, well-aged spirit.

Where Can Collectors Purchase Fanged Pursuit Whiskey?

As with all releases in the Orphan Barrel collection, Fanged Pursuit whiskey is a one-time release, available only while supplies last. The bourbon became available for purchase on March 1, 2025, at select retailers across the United States, with a suggested retail price of $200 for a 750mL bottle.

For those looking to secure a bottle, Fanged Pursuit whiskey is also available through online platforms such as ReserveBar, offering nationwide shipping and delivery options where legal. Given the rarity of this release, collectors and enthusiasts are encouraged to act quickly, as once it sells out, it will not be restocked.

How Does Fanged Pursuit Whiskey Reflect The Philosophy Of The Orphan Barrel Collection?

The Orphan Barrel collection is known for sourcing and bottling exceptional aged whiskies that might otherwise go undiscovered. Each release tells a unique story, capturing the essence of its aging journey and offering a glimpse into rare whiskey craftsmanship. Fanged Pursuit whiskey exemplifies this mission by preserving a distinctive batch of long-aged bourbon, ensuring that its legacy is shared with connoisseurs before it is gone forever.

Diageo, the global spirits powerhouse behind the Orphan Barrel collection, continues to expand its premium whiskey offerings, catering to a growing market of enthusiasts who value rarity and quality. With brands such as Johnnie Walker, Bulleit, and Crown Royal under its portfolio, Diageo has established itself as a leader in the whiskey industry, consistently delivering high-end expressions that appeal to collectors and casual drinkers alike.

As whiskey appreciation continues to grow, limited-edition releases like Fanged Pursuit whiskey offer an exclusive opportunity for enthusiasts to experience something truly special. With its meticulous craftsmanship, unique non-chill filtration process, and 17 years of careful aging, this bourbon stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of well-aged, expertly crafted whiskey.