There’s nothing I love more than a deep dive into Kentucky — and whiskey — history, and RD1 Spirits Old Wm. Tarr Manchester Reserve whiskey provides just that.

The original William Tarr was a Kentuckian and entrepreneur who was born in 1824 in Paris, Kentucky. He is said to have begun selling watermelons from his family’s farm while still in high school. After a few business endeavors — including stints in land speculation and at another whiskey venture, Tarr was at one point described as “one of the money kings of the Blue Grass.” He purchased the Ashland Distillery, which had the distinction of receiving the first federal distilling license, RD1, on Manchester Street in Lexington in the 1870s.

I love how the RD1 Spirits company pays homage to an early distiller through this product’s branding. I also love the fact that UK Football Coach Mark Stoops is a minority investor. If you love Lexington history, there are so many “Easter eggs” in the Old Wm. Tarr branding!

Old Wm. Tarr Manchester Reserve is a blended whiskey — 8-year rye and 7-year bourbon — that pays tribute to Tart’s legacy. A 114 proof juice, it provides the spice of a rye and the caramel notes of a bourbon.

RD1 graciously sent me a review bottle of Old Wm. Tarr, along with a stunning Lexington Silver barrel beaker. This cup pays homage to Asa Blanchard, an 18th century Lexington silversmith often called the “Paul Revere of the South.” Blanchard’s original design mimics the lines of a whiskey barrel. It’s a perfect pairing for anyone who loves good whiskey and Kentucky history!

Cheers, y’all!