Brad Paisley’s American Highway Reserve Route 2 Whiskey

Brad Paisley’s American Highway Reserve Route 2 Whiskey isn’t just a bourbon—it’s a journey bottled. Designed in collaboration with the Bardstown Bourbon Company, this second release in the series is a tribute to exploration, craftsmanship, and the American road. Aged aboard a “rolling rickhouse” that followed Paisley’s 2021 summer tour, Route 2 carries the flavor of the open road—quite literally.

More than a celebrity whiskey, Route 2 is the product of deep involvement from Paisley himself, who took part in barrel selection, aging methods, and final blending. The result is a robust, travel-tempered spirit that honors traditional bourbon roots while adding its own fresh, storied twist.

Brad Paisley’s American Highway Reserve Route 2 Whiskey – Blended from Three Distinct Mashbills

Route 2 is a blend of bourbons from Kentucky and Georgia, each chosen for its unique contribution:

• 27% 4-year-old Kentucky bourbon
  Mash bill: 70% corn, 21% rye, 9% malted barley
  Adds spice and youthful vibrance.
• 7% 12-year-old Kentucky bourbon
  Mash bill: 78% corn, 10% rye, 12% malted barley
  Provides deep maturity, leather, and oak.
• 66% 8-year-old Georgia bourbon
  Mash bill: 80% corn, 10% rye, 5% wheat, 5% malted barley
  Brings round sweetness, fruit, and a soft finish.

Together, these bourbons form a bold 98-proof whiskey with depth, character, and a story in every sip.

Tasting Notes

Appearance:
Golden amber with copper glints.

Nose:
Warm aromas of charred oak, leather, and baked apple. Hints of almond and soft vanilla peek through, creating an inviting entry.

Palate:
Toffee and cinnamon immediately coat the tongue. Mid-palate reveals baked fruit and subtle rye spice. Each sip is balanced by layers of complexity from years of diverse aging.

Finish:
Long, evolving, and smooth. Notes of oak, dark caramel, and gentle baking spices linger with elegance.

Why You’ll Love It

• Celebrity Crafted, Not Just Endorsed – Brad Paisley was involved in every stage of production
• Innovative Aging – Traveled in a mobile rickhouse across the U.S. for a truly unique finish
• Perfect for Collectors – A limited-edition release with only 10,000 cases
• Versatile & Complex – Bold enough to enjoy neat, refined enough for premium cocktails

Perfect For:

• Country music fans and collectors
• Bourbon lovers looking for a story-driven, travel-aged expression
• Father’s Day, birthdays, or holiday gifting
• Enjoying by the fire after a long road trip or BBQ

FAQs 

1. What is a “rolling rickhouse”?
It’s a mobile aging facility—essentially a semi-truck trailer filled with barrels. As it travels, the temperature fluctuations and vibrations naturally influence the maturation process.

2. Is this whiskey really limited?
Yes, only 10,000 cases were released in select U.S. markets and online. Once sold out, it won’t return in this exact form.

3. How does Route 2 differ from the first release?
Route 2 saw a different route and weather conditions during aging and incorporates a different blend of bourbons, including 8-year-old whiskey from Georgia, adding a new layer of complexity.

4. What’s the best way to enjoy this whiskey?
It shines neat or with a splash of water, though it also adds incredible depth to a Boulevardier or Old Fashioned.

5. Can I age this further at home?
You can cellar it unopened, but it’s already been expertly aged. It’s best to enjoy it within 6–12 months after opening to preserve its full flavor.

Food & Pairing Suggestions

Best Paired With:

• Slow-smoked brisket or pulled pork
• Grilled peaches with cinnamon
• A sharp cheddar or gouda cheese board

Cocktail Ideas:

• Smoky Old Fashioned: Route 2, Demerara syrup, aromatic bitters
• Highway Manhattan: Route 2, sweet vermouth, orange bitters

Discover More About Road-Aged Whiskey

Want to learn about the science and craft behind mobile barrel aging? Check out this insightful article from The Whiskey Wash on how the journey changes the whiskey.

Final Verdict

Brad Paisley’s American Highway Reserve Route 2 isn’t just a collectible—it’s a celebration of the road, the rhythm of change, and the refinement of tradition. Rich in character and full of flavor, this limited release is perfect for those who appreciate bourbon with a sense of adventure. Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast or a country music fan, Route 2 is worth the ride.