Pursuit Spirits, the Louisville-based whiskey brand founded by Kenny Coleman and Ryan Cecil, has built its reputation on bold ideas, thoughtful blending, and honoring whiskey’s past while shaping its future. Their newest release, Old Anvil, is proof that some of the finest bottles come from barrels once nearly left behind.
Back in 2019, Coleman and Cecil secured four barrels from a renowned Kentucky distillery and envisioned a limited release that would be nothing short of extraordinary. Along with the rare 70/21/9 mashbill, the five-year-old barrels were too tempting to pass on, and the duo rushed in with excitement despite never sampling the whiskey. By the time the barrels reached their loading dock, they revealed their harsh truth. Instead of rich complexity, the whiskey tasted of grass and hay.
Fast forward to 2023, Pursuit Spirits moved into their new distillery and uncovered the historic distilling legacy of Mellwood Avenue. Finally at 11-years-old, the once distasteful barrels had finally captured the perfect balance of rich oak and nutty flavors. What once seemed like a financial burden had transformed into something extraordinary; a rich, nuanced bourbon layered with oak, vanilla, spice, and citrus. The timing was perfect for a special release.
Enter Old Anvil, the third release in the Mellwood Legacy Collection. Inspired by a long-lost label once bottled by General Distillers in Louisville, Old Anvil is a one-time, distillery-exclusive release.
Bottled at cask strength (119.4 proof), Old Anvil offers a bold yet balanced sip. On the nose, it opens with the nostalgic creaminess of a root beer float, lifted by honeysuckle and bright orange marmalade. The palate brings a fusion of orange-vanilla cola and Madagascar vanilla bean, rounded out with the subtle warmth of fig biscuit. The finish is long and satisfying, layering cinnamon-vanilla frosting and candied orange with waves of sweet oak and a lingering touch of allspice.
“Old Anvil is proof that time can change everything,” said Ryan Cecil, Pursuit Spirits Master Blender and CEO. “We once thought these barrels were a mistake, but years later, they became something truly remarkable. It’s a good thing we had a ton of distractions because I’m excited to see what this bourbon has become.”
Available exclusively at Pursuit Spirits’ new Whiskey Row location starting Thursday, August 28, Old Anvil comes in 375mL bottles at $99.99 SRP. Only a limited number of cases will be sold each day, but booking the Mellwood Past & Present experience (available here) guarantees the opportunity to purchase while supplies last. This is a one-of-a-kind, distillery-exclusive release; once it’s gone, it’s gone. It’s the release you won’t want to miss.