Our Story

Originally established in 1856 in Paris, Kentucky, the original Chicken Cock American Whiskey rose in popularity during the 19th century and was infamously a staple of Prohibition-era speakeasies, including the Cotton Club, where it would be smuggled inside in nondescript tin cans. Chicken Cock disappeared from the market in the 1950’s after the original distillery burned down, but we’ve now brought The Famous Old Brandback, combining 160 years of history with a touch of 21st century.

Current Release

Distilled, aged, and bottled in Kentucky, Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey has a rich, elegant mahogany hue; a nose which balances oak tones with sweet notes of dried fruit, caramel, and vanilla; and a palate that opens with soft tannins. A creamy, almost buttery mouthfeel is complemented by butterscotch notes and toasted oak, resolving with a vanilla finish. At 90 proof, there is a slight, welcome bourbon heat. The bourbon is bottled in a replica of the Prohibition-era Chicken Cock bottle.

Bardstown Bourbon Company

On September 10, 2018, The Bardstown Bourbon Company (BBCo) announced that Grain & Barrel Spirits, the maker of pre-prohibition favorite Chicken Cock Whiskey, has joined BBCo’s Collaborative Distilling Program. Grain & Barrel will work together with BBCo to produce custom bourbon and whiskey for the historic Chicken Cock brand, which dates back to 1856. BBCo and Grain & Barrel concluded their first distillation of 616 barrels at the end of August.