I received this spirit as a review sample from Travelers Point, linked here. It is important to clarify this did not impact the ratings of this review.
Some bottles feel like they represent more than just another release, and this one definitely falls into that category. Travelers Point continues to be one of the most interesting craft distilleries here in Indiana, and this newest Signature Series release feels like a big step forward for them. From the moment I saw this one announced for 2026, I knew it was something I had to go check out in person.
The distillery itself sits in Kirklin, Indiana, a small town you could easily miss if you blink while driving through. But right next to that lone stoplight is a tasting room that feels like a hidden gem. After spending some time there and learning more about this release, it became clear this wasn’t just another bottle for them. This was a project built around experimentation and confidence in their process.
This Signature Series release follows one of the more creative aging methods I’ve seen from a craft distillery. Instead of going straight into full-size barrels, the whiskey begins its life in 10-gallon barrels. After aging there, those smaller barrels are combined back into a standard 53-gallon barrel to let everything marry together.
That approach can be risky. Small barrels can easily overpower a young whiskey if the balance isn’t right. What makes this project work is the way Travelers Point controls the process, including using a lower barrel entry proof. Add in locally sourced Indiana grain and full in-house distillation, and this feels like a true craft product from start to finish.
Age Statement: +4 years.
ABV: 56.25% (Cask Strength).
Mash bill: 75% Corn, 17.5% Wheat, 7.5% Barley Malt.
Area of Distillation: Kirklin, Indiana.
Appearance: Espresso.
On the nose:
The first thing that stands out is how grain-forward the profile is in the best possible way. Sweet corn comes through clearly, almost like fresh grilled corn with a touch of butter. The wheat adds a soft spice that feels warm and comforting rather than sharp. There is also a gentle earthy sweetness, backed by oak, vanilla, and caramel. As it opens up, a subtle cocoa note begins to show itself along with a hint of orange peel and something that reminds me of a dried cinnamon stick.
Taste:
The sip is smooth and coats the palate immediately. The cocoa note becomes more noticeable here, leaning toward unsweetened chocolate or baker’s chocolate rather than something sugary. That grilled corn note comes back again, supported by light cinnamon spice and a touch of nutmeg. There is also a faint nuttiness that adds depth without making the whiskey feel heavy. The proof never feels overwhelming, which makes this a very easy sip despite the higher ABV.
Finish:
The finish stays clean and balanced with soft chocolate sweetness and a gentle peppery note. Nothing feels rushed or out of place. It lingers just long enough to keep you coming back for another sip without becoming overpowering.
Final Thoughts:
This is one of the better examples of what craft whiskey can accomplish when the process is handled with care. The small-barrel experiment works here, and the whiskey never feels overly young or aggressively oaked. Instead, it delivers a rich, approachable profile that still feels unique enough to stand out from the crowd. This is the kind of release that shows real progress from a smaller distillery and makes you curious about what comes next.
Rating: A (Excellent).
Cost: $119.99 for 750ml.
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