2XO The Gem of Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey

2XO “The Gem of Kentucky” Straight Bourbon Whiskey is the flagship single-barrel release from master blender Dixon Dedman, the revivalist behind Kentucky Owl. Bold, rich, and layered, it highlights the brand’s signature Two Times Oak (2XO) double-barreling process, which gives the bourbon remarkable depth and viscosity. Bottled at a robust proof and crafted from a high-rye mash bill, it delivers striking flavors of caramel, dark fruit, cinnamon, and toasted oak—an ultra-premium bourbon built for collectors and serious enthusiasts.

Origins & Craftsmanship
2XO Whiskey was created by Dixon Dedman, known for resurrecting the historic Kentucky Owl brand before launching his own label focused on innovative blending and finishing techniques. The name 2XO (Two Times Oak) reflects the brand’s distinctive maturation philosophy: whiskey is aged and then re-barreled into new charred oak to deepen flavor and texture.

The Gem of Kentucky is the brand’s premier single-barrel series, representing hand-selected barrels from Dedman’s stocks of high-rye Kentucky bourbon. Each barrel is bottled individually rather than blended, making every release unique.

Key production details include:

• Mash Bill: High-rye bourbon with approximately 35% rye in the recipe

• Barrel Program: A second maturation in new charred oak barrels for up to a year, enhancing richness and spice

• Style: Double-barreled, single-barrel Kentucky Straight Bourbon

• Proof: Typically 108 proof (54% ABV)

The additional barrel aging increases the surface contact between whiskey and wood, producing a richer mouthfeel and deeper spice complexity while preserving the vibrant character of the high-rye distillate.

Production is limited each year, with individual barrel numbers listed on each bottle.

Critics Reviews

• Whisky Advocate – 91 Points
  The publication describes aromas of rose petals, red berries, and earthiness, noting that the whiskey carries its proof well with balanced sweetness and a long, oak-anchored finish.

Professional reviewers consistently highlight the whiskey’s layered aromatics and the distinctive influence of the double-oak maturation.

Tasting Profile

Nose:
Aromatic and complex with caramel, brown sugar, rose petals, and dark red fruit, layered with toasted oak and baking spice.

Palate:
Full-bodied and rich with cinnamon, chocolate, dark berries, and vanilla, supported by the lively spice of the high-rye mash bill.

Finish:
Long and warming with nutmeg, black pepper, toasted oak, and lingering caramel sweetness.

Quick Overview

Cocktail Recipes

While typically enjoyed neat or with a splash of water, this bourbon can elevate classic whiskey cocktails.

Double Oak Old Fashioned

• 2 oz 2XO Gem of Kentucky

• ¼ oz demerara syrup

• 2 dashes aromatic bitters

Stir with ice and serve over a large cube with an orange peel.

High-Rye Manhattan

• 2 oz 2XO Gem of Kentucky

• ¾ oz sweet vermouth

• 2 dashes Angostura bitters

Stir with ice and strain into a chilled coupe; garnish with a Luxardo cherry.