There are always several bottles from previous years that I typically am unable to find or try. I often watch or read other reviews that enjoy these bottles, and more often than not, they end up on those reviews’ top 10 lists for the year. This bottle was definitely one of those releases that ended up at the top of many lists in 2025, so I finally decided to pull the trigger on this very expensive bourbon and see what I was missing; spoiler alert, if you have the extra funds, it is well worth the cost! Today’s review, and what I will call my special birthday pour for the week, is from Redemption Barrel Sections and is their Redemption 18-Year-Old Bourbon.

Bottle Information

From the Redemption website: Building on the legacy of Redemption’s 2017 release of the Ancients 36-Year-Old Bourbon, of which only eighteen bottles were produced—in 2025 we unveiled an exceptionally rare 18-year-old bourbon. With this new release, Redemption’s Master Blender Alan Kennedy chose to non-chill filter and bottle at barrel proof to reveal the utmost character in each sip, this spirit is a true reflection of what perfectly aged bourbon can become over time. With only 400 six-bottle cases available, this limited release offers an unparalleled experience for collectors and connoisseurs, defined by its deep, rich flavor and remarkable smoothness.

• Distiller: Distilled in the Heartland of Indiana, Bottled by Redemption Barrel Sections
• Mash Bill: 75% Corn, 21% Rye, and 4% Barley/60% Corn, 36% Rye, and 4% Barley
• Proof: 103.4
• Age: 18 Years
• Year: 2025
• 2025 MSRP: $399
• 2026 National Average: $499
• Official Website

Not surprisingly, this bottle is still on a few shelves in the NoCo area, mainly because of its hefty price tag. Most bottles we saw throughout the area left our local stores relatively quickly. I will say that that was probably due to them staying at or near MSRP. Overall, there is no doubt that this is an 18-year-old bourbon with the prominent oak note throughout the entire experience. However, this bourbon is very well-balanced, not overpowered with oak, and offers wonderful sweet and spicy notes of cinnamon and cherry. With that said, let’s get our taste on!

• Nose: Brown Sugar, Red Fruit (Strawberry/Raspberry), Chocolate Cordial Cherry, Cinnamon, and Sweet Oak
• Palate: Sweet Oak, Cinnamon, Cherry, Leather, and Slight Orange Citrus
• Finish: Medium to Long with Notes of Cinnamon and Dry Oak
• My Rating: Save It! (Honestly, I wanted to give this a lower score because of cost, but once this pour opens up in your glen, it is nothing but amazing!)

Please remember, drinking bourbon is a personal adventure, so do not be afraid to drink it neat, with ice, or add some water. It’s your bourbon, you bought it, and you should enjoy it how you want to enjoy it!

Cheers! Prost! Sláinte!

Bourbon Bossman®