Elijah Craig Launches Bourbon-Inspired Cologne: Char No. Three

The world of Bourbon is welcoming an unexpected, wonderfully fragrant newcomer. Elijah Craig, the iconic name behind some of Kentucky’s most beloved small-batch bourbons, is stepping into the fragrance world with a cologne directly inspired by its whiskey brand: Elijah Craig Char No. Three.

The name says it all: this scent pays homage to the level three char Elijah Craig uses for all its bourbon barrels. That specific char forms the backbone of the whiskey’s character—and now, of this fragrance too.

To bring the project to life, the brand partnered with Paris-based Crafting Beauty, while fragrance house Symrise handled the formulation. The mission was simple: capture the rare alchemy of fire meeting oak.

According to Elijah Craig, it’s all about that magical moment when flames transform the cask.

In the cologne, that comes alive through smoky accents of nutmeg, charred oak, and birchwood. Layered over are fresher, botanical notes that nod to Kentucky’s landscapes, like juniper, lavandin, and orange blossom.

The finish is wrapped in warm layers of vanilla and cacao—a clear wink to the flavor profile of Elijah Craig Small Batch.

Max Stefka, associate vice president of global whiskey brands at Heaven Hill, is thrilled with the result.

Good news for fans of the distillery: Char No. Three is available to purchase. The cologne can now be pre-ordered via Heaven Hill’s website for $49.99.

There will also be a limited release at the Heaven Hill Bourbon Experience in Bardstown—the ultimate destination for bourbon lovers.

Now, our question to you: which brand would you love to see launch its own fragrance?