Arby’s has the meats and now the bourbon to pair with them.
The fast-food chain announced Monday the release of its limited-edition Arby’s Smoked Bourbon, in partnership with Ohio-based craft distillery Brain Brew and smoked with the same woods used for Arby’s meats.
The whiskey takes inspiration from Arby’s smoked brisket sandwich and limited-edition real country-style rib sandwich. It will be available exclusively at ArbysSmokedBourbon.com starting Wednesday at noon (ET) for $60, plus tax.
Arby’s Smoked Bourbon is the company’s second foray into the liquor business. Last year, Arby’s launched french-fry flavored vodka — Crinkle Fry Vodka and Curly Fry Vodka — which quickly sold out.
“After our successful vodka launch last year, we knew we wanted to release another unexpected liquor that our fans of legal drinking age can responsibly pair with our menu items,” Arby’s President Jim Taylor said in a statement.
“Arby’s smoked meats are the cornerstone of our brand, so why not use our expertise to create a delicious smoked bourbon that complements the flavors and enhances the experience of enjoying our Smokehouse Sandwiches?”
To produce the bourbon, American oak is smoked in a patented process with hickory, mesquite and pecan smoke from Sadler’s Smokehouse in Texas. The smoked wood is then placed inside the bourbon, where it’s heated and cooled to replicate seasonal temperature variations.
“We take pride in the hours of research, detail and innovation that goes into creating custom bottles of bourbon for our collaboration partners as well as consumers and enjoyed recreating one of Arby’s signature flavor profiles using the same smoked woods that they use at Sadler’s Smokehouse,” CEO and co-founder of Brain Brew Doug Hall said in a statement.
Arby’s isn’t the only fast-food brand dabbling in booze. Hardee’s last month launched Strawberry Biscuit Ale with Nashville-based brewery Southern Grist Brewing Co. Sonic last year released a hard seltzer line.
Arby’s anticipates its bourbon will “sell out quickly” and said there will be a second drop. Costumers who sign up to become Arby’s members before Wednesday at 11:59 p.m. (ET) will get early insight into when there will be a second chance to purchase the libation.
The food company is also offering a cocktail smoker with woodchips shaped like Arby’s iconic brown hat for $50, plus tax.
Arby’s Smoked Bourbon will be available for purchase in California, Colorado, Florida, Kentucky, New Hampshire, New York and Washington, D.C.
