Fat Baby New York Bourbon

Fat Baby New York Bourbon is a high-proof, four-year-old straight bourbon that brings together serious craftsmanship and a story customers don’t forget. Distilled and bottled in Glenville, New York, this small-batch whiskey showcases the emerging New York bourbon scene with local grain, New York water, and hands-on production from a family-run team. 

The mash bill leans into classic bourbon structure with a corn-forward base, supported by rye and malted barley to add lift and complexity. A full four years in new charred American oak—specifically Missouri oak barrels—pulls deep color and flavor from the wood, giving Fat Baby more maturity and polish than many young craft offerings. Bottled at barrel strength around 114 proof (57% ABV), it’s built for enthusiasts who want big flavor and the flexibility to add a splash of water or ice to dial in the experience. 

In the glass, Fat Baby opens with a core trio of spice, honey, and vanilla, supported by caramel and nougat notes from the oak. Tasters pick up cocoa, roasted nuts, and subtle grassy and apple tones, with an herbal rye character that rises on the finish without losing the underlying sweetness. The result is a bourbon that feels rich and mouth-coating but stays surprisingly smooth for the proof, making it equally comfortable neat, on a large cube, or as the base for an elevated Old Fashioned or Manhattan. 

Behind the liquid is a powerful family story that gives the brand standout authenticity on a crowded shelf. Founder Josh Mahan created Fat Baby in honor of his daughter Pepper, who survived a major stroke at just two days old and made a remarkable recovery. That resilience and determination are baked into the brand identity, from the name to the “Warrior Pepper” theme that runs through their storytelling. For retailers, that means an easy talking point for staff, a memorable bottle for customers, and a bourbon with real emotional weight behind the label.

Fat Baby New York Bourbon is ideal for customers trading up from mainstream bottles into craft, for collectors who want something with genuine New York provenance, and for anyone who appreciates a bourbon that actually tastes as big as its story.