Rare Character brings back Old Cassidy for 2026

Rare Character has announced the 2026 return of Old Cassidy, a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey blend of 9- to 19-year-old barrels bottled in Lexington at 122.22 proof. The limited release totals 2,650 bottles and targets collectors drawn to mature, hard-to-find whiskey.

Why it matters: - Old Cassidy is one of Rare Character's most sought-after bottles, making the 2026 release relevant to collectors and whiskey buyers chasing limited, high-age-statement bourbon. - The blend combines barrels from 9 to 19 years old, a range that can appeal to drinkers looking for both maturity and balance in a single bottle. - The release is limited to 2,650 bottles, which keeps supply tight and likely increases scarcity.

What happened: - Rare Character announced the return of Old Cassidy for the 2026 batch of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey. - The bourbon is distilled and aged in Kentucky and bottled in Lexington, Kentucky. - The release is presented at 122.22 proof, or 61.11% ABV. - Rare Character identified the batch as A-026.

The details: - The 2026 Old Cassidy release is a blend of Kentucky bourbon barrels selected from the producer's rickhouses. - The barrels in the blend range from 9 to 19 years old. - Older barrels contribute oak, depth and mature character. - Younger barrels add brightness and balance. - Rare Character says the blend delivers caramel, warm spice and dried fruit, with a long finish. - Total production is 2,650 bottles. - Pete Nevenglosky, co-founder of Rare Character Whiskey Co., said Old Cassidy has built a strong following as a rare bottle worth tracking down. - Nevenglosky said the older stocks and the 9-year barrels bring different qualities that define the release when blended together.

Between the lines: - The return of Old Cassidy fits Rare Character's broader strategy of using limited, highly aged releases to build demand among collectors. - The high proof and wide age range suggest a whiskey aimed more at enthusiasts than casual shelf buyers. - The company's branding leans on scarcity and exclusivity, which can help drive interest around a small-batch product like this one.

What's next: - Rare Character is now rolling out the 2026 batch to market. - Availability will be constrained by the 2,650-bottle production run. - Collector interest is likely to center on the batch designation, age range and bottle proof.

The bottom line: - Old Cassidy is back with an older, limited Kentucky bourbon blend designed to stand out in a crowded premium whiskey market.