A New Take on a Chicago Classic: Barrel-Aged Malört Returns

A new release from Jeppson’s Malört builds on its cult-favorite status with a more refined (but still unapologetically bitter) twist: Barrel-Aged Malört 2026 (BAM), available for purchase starting today.

Before CH Distillery acquired the brand, barrel-aged Malört existed only in small, unofficial batches, often poured at beloved Chicago institutions like Paddy Long’s during its legendary Malört and Cheap Beer nights. Inspired by that underground following, CH Distillery made it official, releasing the first BAM in 2020, and it’s been a fan favorite ever since.

What makes BAM different: Barrel-Aged Malört retains the spirit’s signature herbal, citrus-forward bitterness, but with added depth from time spent in fresh ex-bourbon barrels. The result is a more rounded profile, with notes of vanilla and oak layered into the unmistakable Malört bite.

Each release is a blend of Malört aged 1–3 years in single-use, ex-bourbon casks previously used to age bourbon from three distilleries, including MGP Ingredients (Indiana), The O.Z. Tyler Distillery (Kentucky), and George Dickel Distillery (Tennessee). After aging, the barrels continue their journey with local breweries, contributing to unique Malört barrel-aged beers—a full-circle moment in Chicago’s craft community.

How to drink it: Zachary Jarosz, Operations Director at CH Distillery, recommends the BAM Highball, a simple, refreshing aperitif:

• 1–2 oz Barrel-Aged Malört
• Top with soda water, tonic, or a 50:50 blend
• Garnish with a grapefruit slice

Barrel-Aged Malört 2026 is now available for purchase at malort.com and select retailers nationwide.