A Legacy Born in the Heart of Bourbon Country
Few brands embody Kentucky heritage quite like Chicken Cock Whiskey. First distilled in Paris, Kentucky in 1856, long before “bourbon” became a household word, Chicken Cock began as James A. Miller’s small-town dream and grew into one of America’s most celebrated pre-Prohibition whiskies. Known for its quality, craftsmanship, and unmistakable character, it quickly earned a place in bourbon history.
After disappearing from shelves in the mid-1900s, Chicken Cock made a triumphant comeback when spirits entrepreneur Matti Anttila revived the storied brand in 2011. Today, from its new home in Bardstown, Kentucky, the brand continues to carry forward its nearly 170-year legacy of excellence, honoring tradition with slow-growing American white oak barrels and meticulous aging standards that make every bottle worth savoring.
With award-winning releases such as Kentucky Straight Bourbon, Double Oak, and Ryeteous Blonde, Chicken Cock continues to celebrate Kentucky’s proud whiskey tradition with modern flair. Visitors can experience that legacy firsthand at the brand’s two stunning tasting rooms, one in the heart of downtown Bardstown and the other in Louisville’s vibrant NuLu District.
At Unbridled, we’re proud to partner with a brand that shares our passion for craftsmanship, authenticity, and celebrating life’s finest moments. And this year, Chicken Cock is raising a glass to generosity once again, donating another full barrel of whiskey for our 2026 Unbridled Gala.
The lucky winning bidder will be treated to an unforgettable exclusive tasting experience featuring three unique, hand-selected barrels from Chicken Cock Whiskey’s finest bourbon inventory, crafted at Bardstown Bourbon Company. Choose to sample and select your favorite in the comfort of your own home, or enjoy an immersive experience onsite at Circa 1856, Chicken Cock Whiskey’s brand home in Bardstown, KY.
Each barrel, aged a minimum of four years, promises unparalleled quality. Once you’ve chosen your favorite, you’ll personalize your bottles with custom text, up to 20 special characters on the front and back of each bottle—making this truly your own signature bourbon.
The experience doesn’t stop there. You’ll receive the very barrel that aged your whiskey, along with six 6-pack cases of your custom bottles (typically yielding 180–210 bottles). Your collection can be shipped directly to you, or you may choose to pick it up onsite at Circa 1856 for the full Kentucky experience (travel not included). Please allow up to 90 days after the Gala to sample, select, bottle, and ship your product.
From Paris to Bardstown, from 1856 to today, Chicken Cock Whiskey remains a symbol of timeless Kentucky spirit. We are honored to celebrate this legacy together as we toast to another Unbridled year of giving, craftsmanship, and community.