BHAKTA 50 is a limited edition 50-year Brandy collection for spirit enthusiasts seeking the best spirits in the world.
When the brand first started, we created 38 single barrels, each of which gives the opportunity to taste centuries old spirits—distilled in the 19th century. Our blending process—The BHAKTA Method— fuses Armagnac vintages ranging from 1868 - 1970, making literal centuries old spirits accessible. Sampling this astounding array of historic vintages involves a journey across the twists and turns of time—and offers a unique glimpse into the mind of our founder, Raj Peter Bhakta.
Current Releases
To view or save a .pdf of the the collection, please click here.
Barrel 25: Lindbergh
In 1927, Charles Lindbergh boarded the Spirit of St. Louis, a single-engine monoplane, and took off for the first-ever nonstop flight from New York to Paris. During his 33.5-hour odyssey, Lindbergh encountered storms, heavy seas – flying just 10 feet over the ocean at times – and often navigated by dead-reckoning due to a lack of navigational equipment. This barrel finds 1927, and we toast the indomitable American spirit with it.
Barrel 27: Jackie
An Icon
Acknowledged as “unlikely to become a housewife” in her high school yearbook, Jacqueline Bouvier instead became a tour de force as an American icon and the First Lady to JFK. They first met in 1952, and she was JFK’s partner in politics, adding panache to the presidency until JFK’s assassination in 1963. She effortlessly blended the old with the new, heading historic preservation efforts and setting fashion trends. This barrel is for the trendsetters who know the beauty of blending history with modernity.
Barrel 28: Rasputin
A Mystic
Rasputin, meaning dissolute, was the surname adopted by Grigori Novykh. Rasputin fully embodied his new name as a famed libertine, spiritual leader, and advisor to the Romanovs. His death was as fantastical as his life – he purportedly survived being poisoned and shot twice before succumbing to a gunshot to the head. The Bolshevik Revolution followed his assassination, which was no coincidence. With this barrel, we toast to those who venture boldly into their destiny.
Barrel 29: de Gaulle
Honor, Unity, Salvation
De Gaulle rose to prominence in WWII when he refused to accept the French government’s truce with Germany, exiling himself in London. From there, he created a new government for his home country. He resigned, only to be tapped again in 1958 when he became president of the French Fifth Republic. His nationalist approach earned him a second term as president in 1965. A tenacious statesman, de Gaulle had strong beliefs that he abided by in all his actions. We will toast to that.
Future Releases
Barrel 26: Pickerell
The Founding Father of Craft Distilling
Raj founded WhistlePig Rye Whiskey in 2010, nearly in tandem with Dave Pickerell’s rise in the craft distilling world. The Founder of Whistle Pig cast his lot in with the Founding Father of Craft Distilling to create unique blends that propelled the WhistlePig brand to the upper echelon of whiskey. We crafted this barrel in honor of Dave Pickerell, a pioneer, a mentor, and a visionary, but above all, a friend.
Barrel 30: Emperor Norton
An Imperial Delusion
Joshua Norton declared himself Emperor of the United States in 1859. Treated with deference by the people of San Francisco until he died in 1880, Norton had no formal power. As the self-appointed Emperor, he advocated abolishing the two-party system in the U.S., proposed a bridge from San Francisco to Oakland, and led a diplomatic effort that resulted in the Hawaiian king recognizing Emperor Norton as the true leader of the United States. Cheers to the Emperors and Empresses, officially appointed or not.
Barrel 31: Iron Lady
Uncompromising
Margaret Thatcher served as Britain’s first female and longest-serving Prime Minister. The “Iron Lady” was a force to be reckoned with for her uncompromising politics. She was a proponent of strong nationalism, forging policies to make Britain fiercely independent. This barrel is for those made of more potent stuff – who forge their identities in iron and are uncompromising in their convictions.
Barrel 32: Ravi
The Life of the Party
Ravi, Raj Bhakta’s uncle, lived life to its fullest. Born in 1955, he danced through his lifetime energetically. Ravi was a drinker, a dancer, a merry-maker, and was indeed the life of the party. He brought vibrancy to any event. We toast to those who dance like nobody is watching, even if a crowd gathers. This one is for the late nights that last through the early mornings, and the merriment that friends and family bring.
Barrel 33: Eugene
Despite All Odds
Eugene Bullard was the first African American fighter pilot. He never flew for the U.S., but rather for France. Born to formerly enslaved people in Georgia, he escaped to Paris to join France’s Aeronautique Militaire during WWI. Between wars, Bullard ran a nightclub frequented by jazz legends. During WWII, he flew again for France, earning the Legion of Honor in 1959. A hero, despite the odds.
Barrel 34: Mary Teresa
Devotee
Bhakta means “devotee.” While Mary Teresa Bhakta, Raj’s mother, was a Bhakta by marriage only, she was a devotee just the same. She was devoted to her family and raised her children with love and care. Mary Theresa was devoted to her faith, leaning on it both in times of need and times of health. She was devoted to joy, finding adventure in the everyday. This barrel is for the mothers who make us who we are, and see us for what we can become.
Barrel 35: Sardar
The Chief
Vallabhbhai Jhaverbhai Patel earned the title “Sardar” or “Chief” after leading a movement to lower taxes on landowners in Gujarat in the wake of a massive crop failure in 1917. Raj’s grandfather fought alongside Sardar Patel during this successful campaign. Sardar Patel helped to unify India politically. With this barrel, we toast to those who bear the mantle of power with grace and dignity.
Barrel 36: Octavian
The Unifier
Coming to power in the wake of nation-builder Julius Caesar, Octavian unified the Roman empire into a sprawling superpower through administrative and diplomatic efforts. As Emperor, he witnessed the death of his heirs and persisted through ill-health to build a Roman heritage that blended cultures, territories, and peoples. An enduring legacy of unification – we will drink to that.
Barrel 37: Charlemagne
The Empire Builder
From 768 AD to 814 AD, one man took Europe by storm, waging war to unify tribes under the flag of Christianity. Charlemagne ushered in a new era of education and art. The writing developed during this period serves as the basis for the alphabet we use today. Known as the Father of Western Europe, Charlemagne constructed an empire that would become legendary. It’s fitting to name a spirit as legendary as BHAKTA 50 for a man who has ascended into myth-dom.
Barrel 38: Washington
The Founding Father
In 1787, after leading the Continental forces to victory against British rule, George Washington was compelled to give up the quiet life of a genteel farmer to become the first president of a fledgling country. Mindful of his legacy, Washington ruled the country with integrity and fairness. He took a neutral stance in foreign relations and believed that respect for opposing views was critical to achieving equity and progress. We toast one of the Founding Fathers who set the tone for a nation.
PAST Releases
Barrel 1: Hogsworth
Hogsworth is a farewell, a chapter coming to an end. Raj Peter Bhakta is on hiatus from the whiskey world, but he leaves an Islay mark on his new, spirited sensation. BHAKTA 50 carries rich caramel from slow Armagnac distillation. Now imagine that profile with a kiss of seaside smokiness. The finish is fruit and brine, sweet and savory.
Barrel 2: Revival
Revival is an embrace of the future. Blended on America’s birthday, this barrel carries the most incredible wisdom of the American Spirit. It marries the best attributes of Armagnac and Scotch, and the wedding is monumental. Revival contains the same vintages as Barrel 1, Hogsworth, but new blend ratios highlight distinct tasting notes.
Barrel 3: Pendragon
Time of Discovery
This barrel is named for King Arthur Pendragon, master of Excalibur, and pays homage to discovery. Whether drawn from a stone or a cellar, it narrates the power within a mythic asset. Armagnac from France was our founder’s capstone discovery. Our 50 Year blend can be yours.
Barrel 4: Galahad
Gallantry and Purity
This barrel reflects gratitude for the apprentice. Sir Galahad is Lancelot’s son, a late addition to the Round Table, yet a heroic knight in his own time who leads the quest for the Holy Grail. Every fellowship has its young Galahads. With proper training, they can become great. We drink to them.
Barrel 5: Percival
The Visionary
The forest isolated Percival until 15; Percival followed a legion of knights on foot to King Arthur’s court, earning a seat at the table. There is power in perseverance, never settling for “no,” despite the obstacles. The spirits of Percival herein have marched marathons for their goals.
Barrel 6: Lohengrin
A Toast to Humility
The Arthurian legend of Lohengrin tells the story of the Swan Knight. Ferried by a swan-drawn boat to rescue a maiden, he mysteriously demanded his name never be revealed. The tale teaches us much about humility. The spirits in this barrel toast the modern heroes who ask for no recognition in return. This is true honor, after all.
Barrel 7: Guinevere
The Fairest Barrel in the Land
Rich with a smoky kiss and a majesty worthy of names. Guinevere was King Arthur’s wife, Queen of the British in an age of magic and chivalry. Don’t let the beauty distract, though: you might catch yourself drinking up all of this rare blend before you can save some as a liquid investment.
Barrel 8: Sagramore
The Fairest Barrel in the Land
Rich with a smoky kiss and a majesty worthy of names. Guinevere was King Arthur’s wife, Queen of the British in an age of magic and chivalry. Don’t let the beauty distract, though: you might catch yourself drinking up all of this rare blend before you can save some as a liquid investment.
Barrel 9: Colgrevance
A Timeless Paradox
When one speaks on behalf of righteous truth, peril can befall. Colgrevance is one such example. While defending his comrade and preventing his murder, Colgrevance was slain. Though his legacy is oft forgotten, we honor Colgrevance just the same. It is amusing to say his name out loud at the very least. At most, it reminds us to hold fast to our virtues, even before the harshest rebuke.
Barrel 10: Gawain
The Courteous Knight
Sir Gawain’s skill with the sword and celebrated integrity earned him a permanent seat by Arthur’s side. Above all, the tale of Sir Gawain’s marriage reminds us that true beauty is found within. Love is a mysterious puzzle, but our most important tool lies in our judgment of character. Let this barrel bring the magnificent souls closer.
Barrel 11: Bohemond
As Heroic as Delicate
The bright, fiery orange color says it all: this crusader king embodies insatiable passion and victorious perseverance. From Prince of Taranto in Southern Italy to the Prince of Antioch in modern-day Turkey, Bohemond imparted stirring leadership to his various conquests. Pope Urban II admired his strength, and we are sure you will marvel at this barrel.
Barrel 12: Lafayette
A Transatlantic Legacy
No line of ancient Armagnac would be complete without the Marquis de Lafayette, with his famous commitment to the freedom and rights of all men. Without Lafayette’s assistance in mobilizing French military aid, America’s Revolution would not have won succeeded. This barrel is dedicated to the intimate linkage between France and America. We salute our oldest allies grandly.
Barrel 13: Godfrey
The Mark of Strong Leadership
Godfrey of Bouillon was the champion of the First Crusade, Jerusalem’s presumed new ruler. However, he declined his title and golden crown since Christ himself had not worn more than thorns. Instead, he continued his campaign, amassing land until his death in battle. Humility and reluctance to accept accolades are the marks of strong leadership. We drink to the mighty few.
Barrel 14: Theobald
French Wine’s Progenitor
We remain in awe of the multitalented. Theobald of Navarre was at once a master diplomat, lutist, and grandfather to Champagne wine. After kindling the Baron’s Crusade on the Pope’s whim, he sang his way to Damascus and breezed through negotiations. He also selected Chardonnay grapes to bring home to France for the first time. These grapes have fed French wine & brandy traditions for generations.
Barrel 15: Boniface
Never Been Vetoed
Boniface of Montferrat was the Fourth Crusade’s clear leader. With Papal permission, his army stormed Constantinople, and all hailed him as the new Byzantine Emperor. Still, powerful Venice held him unworthy. Barred from his throne in Byzantium, Boniface started his kingdom in Thessaloniki. If you know the Bhakta story, you will join us in praising this act. Drink from this barrel and never be vetoed.
Barrel 16: Ulysses
An Unlikely Hero
Ulysses S. Grant was a president but not a politician, a general who loathed the pomp of military office. He was also a bit of a lush. He made up for what he lacked in polish with his military acumen and perceptiveness. Grant led the Union to victory in the Civil War and then oversaw reconstruction efforts over a torn country. He is a turbulent and often conflicted hero, but Ulysses S. Grant is a hero, nonetheless. Flawed heroes and heroic humanity – we’ll drink to that.
Barrel 17: Winston
The Bulldog
They say that Winston Churchill enjoyed a “mouthwash” of whiskey each morning. Whatever his daily routine, there is no doubt that Churchill was witty, savvy, and a visionary. He became Britain’s Prime Minister in 1940, just after the start of WWII. His tenacity, stirring speeches, and unwavering resolve made him one of the chief architects of Allied victory. The bold flavors of this barrel would convert the British Bulldog himself into an Armagnac enthusiast.
Barrel 18: Rockefeller
The Gilded Age
Perhaps no man (nor woman) better represents the glamour and complexity of the Gilded Age than John D. Rockefeller. Born into a family without means in upstate New York, the scrappy Rockefeller saw untapped opportunity in oil refining, founding the Standard Oil Company in 1870. He retired in 1897, a vintage found in this bottle. Indulge in this barrel of BHAKTA 50 and discover the richness within it.
Barrel 19: Louis Napoléon
The First President and the Last Monarch
Napoleon Bonaparte’s nephew, Louis-Napoleon Bonaparte, served as France’s first president from 1848-1852. When he constitutionally could not be reelected, he named himself Emperor. As Emperor, he oversaw the expansion of France’s overseas domains and the modernization of France’s economy until 1870. The throes of 19th-century expansionism are contained within Barrel 19, aptly named Louis-Napoleon. À votre santé!
Barrel 20: Fitzgerald
The Roaring Twenties
F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald are the epitome of the Roaring Twenties. A tumultuous match between F. Scott and Zelda produced some of the best iconography and literature of its age, from This Side of Paradise to the flapper style Zelda Fitzgerald brought to America. The Fitzgerald’s moved to Paris in 1924, a vintage found in this barrel. That year, F. Scott began writing his best-known work, The Great Gatsby. You will discover all the glamor and indulgence of the Jazz Age within Barrel No. 20, aptly named Fitzgerald.
Barrel 21: Earhart
A Pioneer
Born in 1897, Amelia Earhart earned her pilot’s license in 1921. From there, she smashed records and championed women in aviation, accruing a laundry list of accomplishments and accolades, much like BHAKTA 50. Earhart disappeared in 1937 (a vintage found in this barrel) during a flight around the world. Despite being gone, she is not forgotten. With this barrel, we toast to the fearless pioneers who aren’t afraid to be the ones who go first.
Barrel 22: Patton
Old Blood and Guts
General Patton said, “A good plan violently executed right now is far better than a perfect plan executed next week.” A decisive (albeit controversial) leader, Patton was integral to the success of D-Day on June 6, 1944. His troops distracted German command, leaving them vulnerable and unprepared on the beaches of Normandy. Patton’s army swept through the breaches, helping to cement a decisive victory for Allied forces. With this barrel, we say cheers to the mavericks who make history.
Barrel 23: Morgan
A Titan
John Piermont Morgan’s commitment to the progress and modernization of the American economy led him to dominate the banking sector throughout the Gilded Age. During the Panic of 1893 (you will find 1893 in this barrel, minus the panic), when the U.S. Treasury was on the verge of collapse, he masterminded the economic recovery efforts – selling gold from his syndicate directly to the U.S. Treasury to shore up the value of paper money. Cheers to legacies built and new avenues forged!
Barrel 24: Gandhi
Great-Souled
Mahatma is an honorific title meaning “Great-Souled,” given to Gandhi for his nonviolent efforts to secure Indian Independence. The Gandhi-Irwin pact signed in 1931 (a vintage found in this barrel) began negotiations with Britain to ensure the independence of India. We remember Gandhi for his intelligence, commitment to nonviolence, and unique ability to inspire a largely fragmented country. With this barrel, we salute a great soul.