We’re very much in a period of whiskey fans-turned-producers. Whether we’re talking established store owners, popular influencers, or even a prolific online reviewer/moderator, enthusiasts everywhere are trying their hand at whiskey-making. Case in point: Ed Bley, former manager of Cork ‘N Bottle in Crescent Spring, KY, and owner of Rising Tide Spirits. Ed introduced Rising Tide to the market in 2023 with the inaugural release of Old Stubborn. The first two batches contained pot still wheated bourbon aged at least 10 years, sourced from an undisclosed distillery in West Virginia (likely Smooth Ambler). Then, in 2025, Rising Tide expanded the “Old” line to include Old Swagger, complete with an ornate bottle redesign.

Unlike Old Stubborn, Old Swagger lists the source as MGP, however, other than a handful of online retailers claiming it has 21% rye, the mash bill remains undisclosed. “Swagger” is meant to symbolize the journey from barrel to bottle, one that “takes insight and confidence to navigate” with every decision along the way serving as “a chance to demonstrate a command of control. When each step moves in rhythm, it’s no walk at all, it’s Swagger.” This initial run of Old Swagger came from 12 barrels of bonded bourbon aged 12 years and was intended to provide an “elegant and deliberate pour.” Retail pricing per bottle was $174.99. There are tons of decently aged MGP bourbons out there, so does Old Swagger offer anything to stand out in a crowded field besides its decorative vessel? Let’s find out.

Nose: Juicy, fruity vibes. Reduced black cherry syrup coating dark brown sugar with hints of toasted vanilla and allspice in the background. Whispers of bubblegum with a swelling presence of orange zest gradually develop over time. Nicely layered and inviting.

Palate: Leaps onto the scene with cherry and syrupy melon notes offset by distinct barrel tannins. Waves of toasted vanilla, slightly burn pastry, and hints of green apple. Black pepper and rye spice delicately creep up the backend

Finish: On the shorter side, despite the lingering, mellow presence of pepper and creamy vanilla. This ebbs and flows, releasing intermittent hits of red fruit and toasted coconut before a watery finale.

Sometimes the best description is a most supple one, which is very much the case with the initial Old Swagger bourbon release. Put simply, this is a solid, effective, and well-rounded whiskey. The experience reminds me a bit of trying Eagle Rare 10-Year for the first time, one of the key bourbons I cut my teeth on. Although not particularly complex, Old Swagger has enough layers to keep most drinkers content, if not interested. To that end, this feels like a bourbon catering to those between the casual and enthusiast stages in their whiskey journey.

I imagine many whiskey fans who haven’t tried Rising Tide wonder if the juice is worth the squeeze, considering Old Swagger already exceeds the oft-parroted $10 per year guideline. Whether you agree with that concept is its own discussion, but even with the decorative bottle, it’s difficult to say the price feels earned. I do think there’s untapped potential for premium, proofed down bourbons, and Old Swagger feels like a good case for something like this. There’s just so much well-aged bourbon out there, MGP or otherwise, much of which runs less than this.