Prova Spirits Releases Bourbon Barrel Fernet

New spirit blends classic Fernet with a Kentucky bourbon barrel finish

Feb. 25, 2026 at 5:04pm

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Prova Spirits, a cocktail-focused nano distillery in Louisville, Kentucky, has announced the release of its Bourbon Barrel Fernet. The new spirit combines the traditional bitter Fernet flavor profile with a bourbon barrel finish, creating a unique expression that pays homage to bartender culture and Louisville's bourbon heritage.

Why it matters

The release of Prova Spirits' Bourbon Barrel Fernet reflects a growing trend of distilleries experimenting with classic cocktail ingredients and techniques to create new, innovative products. As a cocktail-first distillery, Prova is aiming to appeal to bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts looking for spirits that can seamlessly integrate into their drinks.

The details

Prova Spirits' Bourbon Barrel Fernet was developed at the company's Louisville nano distillery. The spirit features a classic Fernet flavor profile that has been finished in bourbon barrels, adding a subtle, warming Kentucky influence. The release is intended to support bartenders and cocktail programs seeking a Fernet expression that respects tradition while offering a distinct point of view.

  • Prova Spirits announced the release of Bourbon Barrel Fernet on February 25, 2026.
  • The company will celebrate the release with an on-site event in Louisville on February 28, 2026.

The players

Prova Spirits

A cocktail-driven nano distillery in Louisville, Kentucky, founded by Giuseppe Paoulos in 2024.

Giuseppe Paoulos

The founder of Prova Spirits.

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What they’re saying

“'Bourbon Barrel Fernet is Prova's love letter to bartenders everywhere. It pays homage to one of the world's most iconic spirits and that unspoken ritual behind the bar - then adds a gentle Kentucky 'hug' through a bourbon barrel finish that feels unmistakably Louisville.'”

— Giuseppe Paoulos, Founder, Prova Spirits

What’s next

Prova Spirits will celebrate the release of Bourbon Barrel Fernet with an on-site event in Louisville on February 28, 2026, inviting guests and hospitality professionals to experience the new expression and explore the company's nano-distillery model.

The takeaway

Prova Spirits' Bourbon Barrel Fernet release demonstrates how distilleries are blending classic cocktail ingredients with regional spirits to create unique, bartender-focused products that appeal to both tradition and innovation.