Federal regulations in the United States require that bourbon be made from a mash bill of at least 51% corn before being aged in new oak barrels and bottled at 80 proof or higher. Bourbon that meets these requirements and that has been aged for a minimum of at least two years may be called straight bourbon. Duke Small Batch Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a straight bourbon whiskey that is made by marrying together casks of bourbon that have aged for between five and ten years. The bourbon is crafted in homage to John Wayne, whose nickname was "Duke." Created by Ethan Wayne (Duke's son), the bourbon's flavor profile was made to reflect Wayne's personal whiskey preferences, which were preserved for over five decades and were only recently discovered. The bourbon has a distinctively fruity aroma, with notes of nutmeg, maple syrup, caramel, toffee, roasted corn and mellow char on the palate. The finish is bold and spicy, with a hint of cloves, rye and ginger. "My father thrived on new projects and adventures and he always loved a great glass of whiskey at the end of the day," says Ethan Wayne. "Our goal with the Duke was to make a Bourbon that embodies the spirit, strength and richness my father personified while realizing his unfulfilled dream of distilling fine spirits." 

Our story BEHIND THE BARREL

Duke Timeless Spirits is inspired by legendary American icon, craftsman and actor John Wayne, or “The Duke”.
His devotion to his craft, friends, family and country brought him respect and admiration across the globe – earning him a congressional gold medal, an airport named after him, a feature on two postage stamps and an induction into the California Hall of Fame in 2007.