Lux Row Distillers’ latest bourbon is aged in tequila barrels—Here’s what it tastes like

Lux Row Distillers is set to unveil its latest annual bourbon release, Blood Oath Pact 11 Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, continuing a long-standing tradition of exclusive, limited-edition blends. Crafted by Master Distiller and Master Blender John Rempe, this year’s expression stands out with a distinctive Añejo tequila barrel finish, adding a new layer of depth to an already complex whiskey.

Building on a reputation for blending some of the finest and rarest aged bourbons, Blood Oath Pact 11 combines three carefully selected whiskeys: a 14-year ryed bourbon, a 10-year wheated bourbon, and a 7-year ryed bourbon that underwent a secondary aging process in Añejo tequila casks. The result is a bourbon that brings together traditional caramel and spice notes with the subtle agave and citrus characteristics imparted by the tequila barrel finish.

With limited availability, an intricate aging process, and an alcohol content of 98.6 proof (49.3% ABV), this release is expected to generate significant demand among collectors and enthusiasts alike.

How Does the Añejo Tequila Barrel Finish Influence the Flavor Profile?

Each release in the Blood Oath Pact series is crafted to showcase the art of blending and barrel finishing. While past editions have featured influences from Cognac, rum, and wine casks, this is the first time Lux Row Distillers has incorporated Añejo tequila barrels into the aging process.

The impact of this finishing technique is evident in the whiskey’s rich and evolving flavor profile. According to Rempe, the first sip delivers warm vanilla and black pepper, gradually revealing layers of dark cherry and citrus, before culminating in a smooth, chocolate-laced finish. The tequila cask influence introduces an unexpected but harmonious interplay of oak, spice, and subtle agave sweetness.

Rempe, known for his meticulous approach to blending, has long admired aged tequilas and their connection to bourbon through barrel aging. Añejo tequilas are often aged in former bourbon barrels, creating a natural synergy between the two spirits. By reversing the process—aging bourbon in ex-tequila barrels—Blood Oath Pact 11 brings a new dimension to its already complex structure.

When and Where Will Blood Oath Pact 11 Be Available?

The official launch event for Blood Oath Pact 11 will take place at Lux Row Distillers in Bardstown, Kentucky, on April 26, 2025, offering enthusiasts an exclusive opportunity to purchase a bottle on-site. This in-person event has become a key moment for collectors, drawing bourbon lovers from across the country.

To maintain exclusivity, purchases at the distillery will be limited to one bottle per person, with no reservations or shipping options available. A total of 17,000 (3-in) cases will then begin shipping to retailers nationwide throughout April, with a minimum suggested retail price of $129.99 per 750mL bottle.

The entire Blood Oath Pact 11 allocation includes 51,000 bottles, with 1,400 set aside for a future Trilogy release. These Trilogies, which group three past releases into a collectible set, have become highly sought after by bourbon connoisseurs.

How Does Blood Oath Pact 11 Fit Into the Series’ Legacy?

The Blood Oath Pact series, launched in 2015, was created as an experimental platform for blending and finishing ultra-premium bourbons. Each annual release features a carefully balanced blend of aged whiskeys, with the added complexity of secondary barrel finishing.

Previous installments have seen innovative finishes, such as Cognac casks in Blood Oath Pact 4, Caribbean rum barrels in Pact 6, and Sauternes wine casks in Pact 8. These distinctive aging techniques have made the series a standout in the craft bourbon segment, with every edition offering a unique tasting experience.

Collectors and investors have also recognized the long-term value of these releases, as early Pacts have appreciated significantly in price on the secondary market. The continued expansion of the series, combined with Lux Row Distillers’ commitment to limited production, has ensured that each new Blood Oath release is met with high anticipation and strong demand.

What Makes Blood Oath Pact 11 a Collector’s Item?

Beyond its carefully blended contents, the presentation of Blood Oath Pact 11 further enhances its appeal as a collector’s bottle. Each release in the series is housed in a distinctive embossed glass bottle, featuring a unique label design that changes annually.

For Pact 11, the bottle is adorned with a mahogany-colored label accented with gold highlights, reflecting the deep and layered profile of the bourbon within. Additionally, every bottle is presented in a fire-branded wooden display box, reinforcing its status as a premium offering.

The Bourbon Trilogy collections have added another layer of exclusivity to the Blood Oath brand. The first Trilogy set, released in 2018, compiled Pacts 1, 2, and 3, while the second, released in 2021, featured Pacts 4, 5, and 6. The most recent Trilogy in 2023 included Pacts 7, 8, and 9. With 1,400 bottles of Pact 11 already reserved for a future Trilogy, collectors looking to complete their set may need to plan ahead.

Why Is Blood Oath Pact 11 Expected to Be a Must-Have Release?

The increasing popularity of finished bourbons, coupled with the reputation of the Blood Oath series, makes Pact 11 one of the most anticipated releases of the year. The combination of luxury branding, complex flavor development, and limited availability ensures that this edition will attract both bourbon enthusiasts and investors.

As bourbon consumers continue to explore innovative cask finishes, Lux Row Distillers’ decision to incorporate Añejo tequila barrels represents a bold move that could set new trends in the industry. The blending of high-aged rye and wheated bourbons, combined with the influence of ex-tequila casks, delivers an experience that stands apart from previous Blood Oath offerings.

For those looking to secure a bottle, early visits to select retailers in April, or attendance at the April 26 Lux Row Distillers event, will be crucial. Given the series’ track record of selling out quickly, Blood Oath Pact 11 is expected to follow suit, reinforcing its status as one of 2025’s most sought-after bourbon releases.