Short Barrel El Jefe American Whiskey in Mezcal Barrels
Short Barrel El Jefe Whiskey pushes the boundaries of finished whiskey by pairing a 7½-year-old Kentucky Straight American Whiskey with a year and a half of...
The Story Behind The Bottle

Habits Bottle Shop
Short Barrel El Jefe Whiskey pushes the boundaries of finished whiskey by pairing a 7½-year-old Kentucky Straight American Whiskey with a year and a half of finishing in ex-reposado mezcal barrels. The base whiskey is built from 91% corn and 9% malted barley, and the entire release consists of just four barrels, making it a genuinely small-batch pour.
The mezcal barrel finish brings a distinctive layer of smoke and bright vanilla and citrus notes to the whiskey's dark, rich oak character, creating a flavor profile that bridges Kentucky bourbon tradition and Oaxacan mezcal. Bottled at barrel proof, El Jefe balances strength, smoothness, and sweetness in equal measure.
Sip it neat to experience the smoke and citrus interplay, or with a large ice cube to soften the barrel proof. It pairs well with grilled or smoked foods and citrus-forward desserts.
Curious about a mezcal-finished Kentucky whiskey? Shop Short Barrel El Jefe Whiskey online now at Habits Bottle Shop.
What To Expect In The Glass
Whiskey
Ways To Pour It
Neat
Served on its own in a rocks glass, letting the full character come through exactly as crafted.
On The Rocks
A single large-format ice cube slowly opens things up and softens the edges as it melts.
In A Cocktail
Works well as the backbone of a simple classic — let it do the heavy lifting.