Some brands follow the rules. Others rewrite them. Old Carter Whiskey is a standout example of the latter—producing small-batch releases that have earned a cult following through intentional blending, extended double barreling, and a commitment to quality above all else.
At the heart of Old Carter’s operation is a blending philosophy that treats each batch like a unique composition. Instead of chasing uniformity across releases, they embrace variation, crafting blends that evolve with each barrel selection—much like wine vintages.
Most releases are made from just 15 to 20 barrels. The goal is depth, structure, and balance—not just proof or age. As Mark Carter puts it,
“We treat it like wine. Every blend should speak to the palate with richness and length.”
Old Carter doesn’t double barrel for trend value—it’s a pillar of their identity. They re-barrel select batches for anywhere from six months to nearly three years, experimenting with different char levels and cooperages to layer in additional complexity.
It’s not just for marketing—it's for flavor. The result? Expressions like their 100-point rye release, which earned the first perfect score for an American rye.
Since launching in 2018, Old Carter has built its reputation on selecting exceptional barrels from across Kentucky, Indiana, and Tennessee. But their standards are high—anything that doesn’t meet the mark gets re-distilled or discarded.
Their inventory includes extremely rare barrels nearing 20 years old, used sparingly in blends where they add true character, not just a number.
“We don’t care about making more money by cutting with water,” Carter says. “We care about making something we’re proud to drink.”
Even among high-end producers, Old Carter’s releases stand out for their texture and length. They emphasize that oxidation plays a role in opening up flavor—and encourage drinkers to “let it breathe” like a fine wine.
The team uses a “swirl and blow” method to reduce ethanol vapors during tastings, letting the underlying aromatics shine. They also strategically bottle in cooler months, when whiskey absorbs more from the barrel, leading to sweeter, more expressive releases.
As the whiskey market expands, many brands scale quickly—sometimes at the cost of character. Old Carter has chosen a slower path, holding prices steady since launch and remaining focused on craftsmanship.
With barrel prices now coming down, they’re optimistic.
“We’re already a legacy distillery,” they say. “Because we’ve committed to something very few are willing to do—make small, perfect blends, batch after batch.”
Why This Matters to Brindiamo
At Brindiamo, we support innovators who prioritize integrity, flavor, and long-term vision. Old Carter exemplifies what’s possible when brands trust their palate, not just the market. Whether it’s double barreling, blending, or sourcing rare inventory, their story reminds us that the best whiskey always starts with intention.
We’re proud to spotlight brands like Old Carter—even when we haven’t partnered—because they set a standard that benefits the entire category.
Want to be featured in our next Whiskey Innovators spotlight—or build your own blending program from the ground up?
Let’s talk. Brindiamo is here to support whiskey visionaries at every step of the journey.