Yellowstone Whiskey, or Yellowstone Bourbon, is a name that has become synonymous with legacy and artistry in American whiskey. Named after the famed Yellowstone National Park, this Bourbon’s history reaches back to the late 1800s. Today, it’s easy to see why Yellowstone Bourbon has become such a beloved spirit among Bourbon fans.
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The History of Yellowstone Bourbon Yellowstone Whiskey
Yellowstone Bourbon isn’t as well-known as some of the other brands on this list, and that’s not too surprising. It had actually been out of production since 1991 until its relaunch by a fifth-generation Beam family member named Steve Beam in 2010.
Yellowstone Bourbon was originally created in 1872 by J.B. Dant and J.T. Williams in Kentucky, who named it after the nation’s newly established Yellowstone National Park, a nod to the beauty and wildness of America. The brand has since changed hands many times over, but fortunately for all Bourbon lovers, its dedication to both quality and heritage never wavered.
In 2010, the brand was revitalized by Luxco and Limestone Branch Distillery, which is operated by a family whose ancestors launched the legacy. As such, each bottle of Yellowstone Bourbon is said to contain a bit of the essence from its legendary past.

Yellowstone Bourbon Varieties
A blend of four different Kentucky straight bourbons with a fifth added after it’s finished aging in specially chosen versions of the first four.
Caramel, brown sugar, and light oak with a hint of citrus.
- Proof: 93
- Price Range: $40 – $50
- Yellowstone Limited Edition
Each year, this special-release bourbon features the artistry of some expert blending and finishes, with expressions that often feature some unique barrel types like wine or sherry casks.
Rich vanilla, dried fruit, toasted oak and spice.
Proof: Varies by year (typically around 101-115)
- Price Range: $100 – $200
- Yellowstone Single Barrel
Hand-picked barrels make for a one-of-a-kind and bespoke bourbon experience, often times uniquely bottled for specific retailers or events.
- Tasting Notes: Deep caramel, vanilla, and baking spices with a long, warming finish.
- Proof: Varies (Typically around 110+)
- Price Range: $55 – $70
- Yellowstone American Single Malt (Upcoming) Venturing outside of bourbon, this new release showcases Yellowstone’s foray into new whiskey territories.

Heritage and Legacy
With a lineage that dates back to the 1800s, Yellowstone Bourbon is a part of American history. Limestone Branch Distillery bringing it back to life means that legacy will live on strong.
State | Yellowstone Select ($) | Yellowstone Limited Edition ($) | Yellowstone Single Barrel ($) |
---|---|---|---|
California | 45 – 50 | 120 – 150 | 60 – 70 |
Texas | 40 – 48 | 110 – 140 | 55 – 65 |
New York | 45 – 52 | 125 – 160 | 60 – 70 |
Florida | 42 – 50 | 115 – 140 | 58 – 65 |
Illinois | 43 – 50 | 120 – 145 | 60 – 68 |
Kentucky | 40 – 45 | 100 – 130 | 55 – 65 |
Georgia | 44 – 50 | 120 – 150 | 60 – 70 |
Colorado | 45 – 52 | 125 – 155 | 62 – 70 |
Nevada | 45 – 50 | 115 – 140 | 58 – 65 |
Washington | 48 – 55 | 125 – 160 | 62 – 72 |
Massachusetts | 46 – 52 | 120 – 155 | 60 – 70 |
Virginia | 42 – 50 | 115 – 145 | 58 – 65 |
Commitment to Conservation
A portion of Yellowstone Bourbon sales proceeds go to support the National Parks Conservation Association, so you know your whiskey is giving back.
The first releases are quite young, but you’d never guess what’s on the label if you didn’t look. Here’s hoping that with time, these will evolve into special, distinct bottles embodying some of the magic of that park.

Tasting Yellowstone Bourbon
Neat, on the rocks, or in a classic cocktail like an Old Fashioned Yellowstone Bourbon is smooth and approachable, with nuanced flavors to savor in every pour.
- On the Rocks: A splash of water really helps to open up those subtle spice and fruit flavors.
- In Cocktails: As a fan of bourbon-forward cocktails, I find the smoothness and balance ideal for many cocktail recipes.
FAQs About Yellowstone Bourbon
Where is Yellowstone Bourbon made?
Yellowstone Bourbon is made at the Limestone Branch Distillery in Lebanon, Kentucky, by Stephen and Paul Beam, who are actually descendants of J.B. Dant, one of the brand’s original founders.