This is the inaugural bourbon release from the Christopher Jackson and Jackson Family, the powerhouse behind some of California’s most prestigious wineries. After conquering wine and thoroughbred racing (three consecutive American Horses of the Year), they’ve turned their attention to bourbon. It makes sense to me – they’re spending a lot of time in Kentucky!
The Stonestreet Kentucky Straight Bourbon “Founder’s Edition” isn’t your regular inaugural release though. The Jackson family hopes it will be a harbinger of things to come. It already earned 94 points and a spot on Wine Enthusiast’s Top 100 Spirits of 2025. At 94 proof with only 131 barrels produced in total, this is small batch heaven from a high-wheat mashbill: 70% corn, 21% wheat, and 9% malted barley, aged for five years.





