The founder of the company is setting out to make Hogsworth a remedy for what he deems an oversaturated whiskey market, one that is characterized by inflated prices and minimal innovation.

Hogsworth Batch 1 Blend #9

Raj Peter Bhakta, the visionary behind BHAKTA Spirits, has unveiled the Hogsworth Batch 1 Blend #9, a creation that he believes will invigorate the whiskey sector.

Described as a solution to what Bhakta calls “bourbon boredom,” Hogsworth Batch 1 Blend #9 features an average age of 9.4 years, blending 52% American bourbon with 48% French armagnac.

“The bourbon scene had grown dull—lifeless, unexciting, and overpriced,” Bhakta shares with Forbes. “Shoppers have been left wanting for the two essential elements: enjoyment and affordability.”

Looking at the latest sales figures in the spirits market, one might argue whether bourbon has indeed hit a lull after a long period of steady growth. Even though it has been a significant contributor to the whiskey sector in the U.S., bourbon sales have shown inconsistencies over the past year, with declines for several leading brands. Nevertheless, the bourbon whiskey market is projected to reach $8.29 billion in 2024, indicating a 6.4% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from the prior year, a growth that analysts link to an increasing fascination with craft bourbon.

The American part of this blend consists of two bourbons: a Tennessee bourbon that has been aged for four years and five months, which contributes 42% of the blend, and a Minnesota bourbon aged for four years, making up 10%. The remaining portion is comprised of armagnac vintages that span from 11 to 42 years old.

“Anyone who values aged spirits—and anyone who genuinely wants them to be within reach price-wise—should explore armagnac,” he remarks.

Bhakta points out that the blend of bourbon and armagnac found in Hogsworth presents whiskey aficionados with a unique yet recognizable option. He highlights that the incorporation of armagnac with bourbon enhances the drink in ways that mere bourbon cask finishes cannot match.

“While many bourbons are finished in armagnac casks, Hogsworth stands out as the first bourbon to actually blend with vintage armagnac,” Bhakta proudly states. “This innovative method sets a new precedent for bourbon and takes it in an exciting direction.”

The tasting notes of Hogsworth are characterized as rich and complex, featuring flavors such as crème brûlée, baking spices, ginger snap, and chai. The armagnac contributes an added layer of intricacy, with hints of aged leather, chocolate-covered orange peel, and chestnut from the 1982 vintage—as well as fresher fruit notes from the 2010 and 2012 vintages. This combination results in a spirit that Bhakta believes will attract both bourbon lovers and armagnac fans alike. “What really astonishes with Hogsworth is how all these elements converge: crème brûlée, chai, baking spices, black pepper, ginger snap, orange zest, and a generous helping of apple,” Bhakta elaborates.

Bhakta’s commitment to accessibility is part of a broader philosophy he champions within the spirits industry. Priced at $50 per bottle, the brand strives to offer substantial value in a landscape where aged spirits often carry hefty price tags. Bhakta emphasizes the necessity of making top-quality, aged spirits available to the public.

“The whiskey section is cluttered with imitators. The bourbon offerings are saturated with uninspired ‘me-too’ brands. Prices have soared to absurd levels, while the brands provide little in terms of innovation; there’s a cacophony of sameness,” he explains. “Our goal at Hogsworth is to offer exceptionally well-made, aged spirits to all Americans—that’s the vision we strive for.”

The creation of Hogsworth Batch 1 Blend #9 faced its share of obstacles. Bhakta notes that achieving a harmonious blend of bourbon and armagnac proved to be a difficult endeavor, demanding years of research and tasting.

“We had to meticulously taste and blend over several years to find the perfect balance—which, in my view, lies in the interplay of depth, complexity, and age with accessibility, broad appeal, and ease of enjoyment,” he shares.

This careful blending approach was made even more challenging due to financial constraints within the company, as the use of premium, aged spirits presented economic hurdles.

“The expenses associated with the vintages used in Hogsworth’s blend really surprised our accountant,” Bhakta remarks. Nevertheless, maintaining the ambition of producing an affordable, high-quality offering remained paramount. “Even if it meant facing criticism from my chief financial officer—and possibly taking a loss on the profit and loss statement—to see Hogsworth come to fruition, I was ready for it.”

Bhakta’s past projects include BHAKTA 1928, which is a blend of rye whiskey, XO Calvados, and armagnac. His vision for Hogsworth goes far beyond merely being another beverage on the shelf; he envisions it as a transformative presence in the spirits market, particularly for many consumers who find themselves shut out of the premium-aged spirit segment due to high prices.

“Offer something truly innovative, distinctive, and remarkable,” Bhakta emphasizes. “Provide it at a price point that is undeniable and accessible for everyone.”

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