[WD] Data Diving into 2024's Whiskey Releases 🤿

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In today's dispatch, we're diving headfirst into:

• Analyzing 2024’s 139 American Whiskey releases

• Worthy Reads: Sampling some of the best from around the web

• Rewind: Some of our most popular Instagram posts from last week

This year’s releases will cost you nearly $40,000

It's 2024, and the whiskey world is in a whirlwind of new releases. We've got a staggering 139 new American whiskeys hitting the shelves, which means you could conceivably try a new one every 2.6 days. But let's be real – who has the liver function for that?

Now, don't get me wrong. I love a good whiskey as much as the next person. But I can't help but wonder if this breakneck pace of releases is sustainable. In 2023, we saw double the number of releases compared to 2022, and now we're on track for roughly half of that in 2024. It's like watching a high-speed train barreling down the tracks, and you're not quite sure if it's going to make the next curve.

Since there isn’t a common definition of new releases so we cobbled together a list of bottles from Breaking Bourbon and Bourbon Bossman and their release dates (both are great resources). Then we eliminated non-American produced Whiskies - sorry Ardbeg, flavored whiskies, and duplicates. Tracked down MSRP, proofs, and a few other tidbits and arrived at 139 new releases for 2024.

But let's talk about the elephant in the room: pricing. With a median MSRP of $100, it's clear that many of these new releases are targeting a particular type of consumer – the kind with deep pockets and a penchant for rare and expensive spirits. But what about the average Joe or Jane who just wants to dip their toe into the whiskey pool? With cheaper options available in categories like gin, rum, and tequila, it's no wonder that some folks might be hesitant to take the plunge.

And then there's the seasonal distribution of these releases. March sees a flood of new whiskeys, with 33 hitting the shelves. But if you're looking for a new whiskey to sip on your summer vacation, you might be out of luck – July only sees one measly release. It's like the distilleries are collectively taking a summer siesta, leaving us whiskey lovers high and dry.

Now, let's talk proof. With 48 releases clocking in at 100-119 proof and another 27 at 120-139 proof, it's clear that distillers are catering to the "I like to feel my whiskey try to crush my soul" crowd. And if you're really craving one off experiences, there are 18 releases labeled as "barrel strength" or "cask strength." Just don't blame me if the bottle doesn’t live up to the over-hyped marketing gimic.

But let's not forget the true stars of the show: bourbon and rye. With 68 and 15 new releases respectively, it's clear that these two categories are still the reigning champs of the American whiskey world. And while I love a good bourbon as much as the next person, I can't help but feel a twinge of excitement at the prospect of more rye whiskeys hitting the market. There's just something about that spicy, peppery kick that gets my taste buds tingling.

Of course, amidst all the excitement and hype surrounding these new releases, it's important to take a step back and consider the long-term implications. How many of these whiskeys will still be around in three years? And what's a reasonable expectation for distilleries and consumers alike?

At the end of the day, while it's easy to get caught up in the frenzy of new releases and limited editions, it's important to remember what whiskey is all about – the craftsmanship, the history, and the joy of sharing a dram with friends. So whether you're sipping on a $35 bottle of Green River or a $10,000 bottle of Eagle Rare, remember to savor the moment and appreciate the artistry that goes into every drop. And if you do happen to overindulge and wake up with a hangover that feels like you've been kicked in the head by a mule, just remember – there's always another whiskey waiting to be discovered. Cheers!

📰 Worthy Whiskey News (a.k.a. our favorite reads)

• Kentucky’s whiskey tourism crosses $13.8 Billion in economic impact

• Opinion piece from Breaking Bourbon - Bourbon’s Next Era

• A glimpse into the future with Frank August’s blending masterminds

• Crown Royal announces its first single malt release

• Celebrating his 111th birthday with a dram and 111 birthday cards

• 📰Last week’s Newsletter: End of the Blaton’s Era

📸Rewind: A selection of our most popular IG Posts

• MSRP check: Redwood Empire

• Price Essentials, the classic and unmistakable greatness of Redbreast 

• Revisiting Remus Volstead vs. MGPI stock - which is up nearly 200%

• Transparent sourcing and respected finishing: RD1

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What a ride it's been this week, huh? Thanks for joining us on this journey through the world of good spirits at great prices.

Thanks again for being here. Let's raise a glass to the week ahead.