Rolling Fork Spirits was founded in 2017 by Turner Wathen and Jordan Morris as an independent blender and bottler of exceptional rums. Operating out of Starlight Distillery in southern Indiana, the duo is dedicated to crafting distinctive spirits that push boundaries while honoring tradition.

Among their standout creations is Fortuitous Union, an inspired blend of rum and rye whiskey. In April 2025, Rolling Fork released Batch 3 of this innovative expression. The latest batch begins with a union of Barbados rum—distilled by Foursquare and aged for 3 years—with Indiana rye whiskey from MGP in Lawrenceburg, aged 5 years and featuring the iconic 95% rye and 5% malted barley mashbill.

This unique 75% rum and 25% rye blend is then aged together for an additional two years in Kentucky bourbon barrels, allowing the flavors to harmonize and mature. Bottled without chill-filtration at a robust 103 proof.

Limited to just 1,200 bottles, Batch 3 of Fortuitous Union raises a compelling question: is this rare blend as captivating in the glass as it is on paper? With its unlikely marriage of bold Indiana rye and sun-drenched Barbados rum, it’s certainly a union that invites curiosity. But does it deliver more than intrigue? Let’s dive in and find out.

Rolling Fork Fortuitous Union (2025) Review

The nose opens with a blast of Bananas Foster, combined with the charred sweetness of deeply toasted marshmallow. As it breathes, notes of golden honey drift in, accompanied by a hint of dill. It’s a fascinating interplay, with the character of both rum and rye clearly asserting themselves—creating a sensory profile that’s compelling, though it could throw off expectations in a blind tasting.

On the palate, the experience begins with a wave of honey, quickly giving way to bright, candied orange peel. That honeyed quality evolves into a floral honeysuckle, intertwined with the character of overripe red grapes. The texture is luxuriously thick and weighty, offering a deeply satisfying mouthfeel. The finish lingers with persistent honey, accented by black pepper and a whisper of juniper. Given its rich viscosity, a longer finish would have further elevated the experience.

Batch 3 of Fortuitous Union is a spirited experiment that truly pays off. By blending two distinct styles, it offers drinkers a rare and intriguing tasting journey. At $55, it’s an easy recommendation—and one that leaves me eager to see what future batches will deliver.

103 proof. Reviewed: Batch #3.

A- / $55 / fortuitousunion.com

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