I.W. Harper Celebrates 150 Years With Rare Release

Stitzel-Weller Distillery has introduced its rarest release in I.W. Harper’s 150-year history, I.W. Harper 34-Year-Old Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey.Distilled in 1989 and matured for over three decades at the historic Kentucky distillery, the expression was blended from four hand-selected barrels, preserved and bottled at cask strength (126 proof).“I held onto this whiskey knowing exactly how special it was,” said Nicole Austin, Diageo’s Director of American Whiskey Liquid Development and Capabilities. “These barrels were marked for I.W. Harper all those years ago, and I’ve been waiting for the right moment to do something truly meaningful with them. This release is the rarest in the brand’s history—a liquid that’s been carefully stewarded for 34 years. As someone who has spent my career honoring the past while helping shape what American whiskey can be, this project has been incredibly personal. It’s a way to spotlight I.W. Harper’s legacy through a lens of true rarity and reverence.”Crafted from just four legacy barrels laid down in 1989, this expression was launched in collaboration with Colman Domingo, two-time Oscar nominated actor, director and philanthropist, as a "reflection of enduring style and an intentional celebration of identity, individuality, and artistic expression."Only 5 bottles will be sold (out of only 11 total in existence), exclusively consigned via global auction at Sotheby’s in New York, with proceeds donated to Native Son, a platform created to inspire, empower and amplify the visibility of Black queer men.Founded by Isaac Wolfe Bernheim, I.W. Harper has long had a strong connection Black culture in America. According to Flaviar, Bernheim believed Lincoln freed the slaves to allow them to create their own destiny. He also employed many African-Americans. Continuing that mission, proceeds from the auction will benefit Native Son’s mission.“As someone who cares deeply about legacy and representation, this release feels personal,” said Colman Domingo. “As a Black queer man, I know how vital visibility, support, and community are. Choosing Native Son as the charity partner was intentional—it reflects the same values we’re honoring through the whiskey: legacy, cultural expression, and creating space to be seen and celebrated. I.W. Harper 34-Year-Old isn’t just about rarity; it’s about storytelling that honors both past and future.”The bottle was developed through that lens, including the couture-inspired wrist piece to the silk scarf by Brooklyn-based creative Michelle Cadore.“These remarkable bottles take center stage – distilled in 1989, they mark a special moment in American whiskey history,” said Zev Glesta, Spirits Specialist, AVP, at Sotheby’s. “Exceptionally well-aged, bottled at cask strength, and five of only 11 in existence, it’s the kind of release collectors dream about. What makes it even more special is that the proceeds will go directly to Native Son, a cause close to our hearts. We’re proud to be part of something so thoughtfully curated – not just celebrating an incredible whiskey, but also giving back in a meaningful way.”