Blood Oath Pact No. 12 Bourbon

This high-end finished straight bourbon whiskey originates from the United States, produced in St. Louis, Missouri by Lux Row Distillers. Created by Remus / Lux Row Master Distiller John Rempe, this 2026 release represents Pact No. 12 in the acclaimed, highly coveted Blood Oath series. Built upon a signature tri-blend formula that marries distinct aged straight bourbons—a well-aged high-rye bourbon, a mature wheated bourbon, and an extra-aged straight bourbon—Pact 12 elevates the series' tradition of exotic wood finishes by undergoing a secondary maturation in rare Cognac casks. Bottled at the signature Blood Oath series strength of 98.6 proof (49.3% ABV)—a nod to human body temperature—it offers an intricate, velvety fusion of mature Kentucky oak, baking spices, and dark French grape elegance.

Spirit Description

This straight bourbon displays a rich mahogany-amber hue with deep copper reflections in the glass. On the nose, it is dense, sophisticated, and deeply aromatic, opening with wafts of dark raisins, caramelized fig, and toasted oak, underlaid by vanilla bean, dark chocolate truffles, and a soft streak of aged French rancio (polished leather and dried prune). On the palate, it feels round, oily, and mouth-coating, delivering an initial surge of sweet brown sugar, candied orange peel, and marzipan from the wheated mash bill, before expanding into punchy cinnamon bark, black pepper, and toasted rye spice. The Cognac finishing adds a silky mid-palate layer of dark plum, roasted hazelnut, and refined grape tannins. The finish is long, warm, and elegant, trailing off with lingering dried fruits, sweet oak char, baking spices, and a soothing, velvety heat.

Accolades

Blood Oath Pact No. 12 continues the celebrated tradition of Lux Row's annual allocated series, securing top praise among bourbon collectors and spirit critics upon its 2026 release. Reviewers across independent outlets like Breaking Bourbon, The Bourbon Culture, and Whiskey Advocate highlight Pact 12 for its seamless wood integration, commending John Rempe's ability to let the dark fruit and subtle floral nuances of the Cognac finish enhance—rather than overpower—the rich, complex foundation of the underlying extra-aged bourbons.