The News
Round Barn Distillery in Baroda, Michigan, has introduced the Lighthouse Series, a limited bourbon line inspired by Lake Michigan lighthouses. The first release, Watchman Barrel-Strength Bourbon, is unfiltered, bottled at barrel strength (58% ABV), and built from a mash bill of 60% corn, 36% rye, and 4% malted barley, aged eight years. The distillery produced 804 hand-numbered bottles; suggested pricing is $99 in wholesale channels and $119 on property. Round Barn will host The Barrel Drop, a launch event at the Bourbon Barn at Round Barn on Saturday, April 18, with first chance to taste and purchase while supplies last. After the debut, Watchman will be sold at Round Barn locations and through select wholesale and retail partners. Three additional Lighthouse Series expressions are planned from spring through December.
Why this release is worth a look
- Barrel strength, straight from the cask — Watchman is bottled unfiltered at 58% ABV so the full rye-forward mash bill and eight years in wood read clearly in the glass.
- A collectible first chapter — Only 804 numbered bottles kick off a four-part Lighthouse Series, with three more limited blends rolling out through the end of the year.
- Southwest Michigan provenance — Round Barn sits in the heart of Michigan wine and spirits country; the lighthouse theme nods to the same Lake Michigan shoreline many Midwest drinkers already associate with summer trips and tasting-room weekends.
- Moersch Hospitality under one roof — As part of the Moersch Hospitality Group, Round Barn continues to pair hospitality-driven experiences (like the April 18 Barrel Drop) with a serious push into premium, small-batch whiskey.
If you are routing through Michigan this season, the series is an easy excuse to stop for a pour, grab a bottle before allocations thin out, and watch how the next three Lighthouse releases build on the same story.
Original Press Release
Baroda, MI — Round Barn Distillery is proud to introduce a bold new chapter in its spirits program with the launch of the Lighthouse Series, a limited-edition bourbon collection debuting this April. The series will feature four distinct blends, each released individually, beginning with Watchman Barrel-Strength Bourbon.
Inspired by the iconic lighthouses that line the Lake Michigan shoreline, it’s a tribute to the quiet strength, precision, and dedication of those who guide others through the dark. Each will showcase a distinct, limited expression, crafted with intention and rooted in both tradition and innovation.
Leading the series is Watchman Barrel-Strength Bourbon that sets the tone for what’s to come. Unfiltered and bottled at barrel strength, this bourbon delivers a bold, expressive profile, allowing the true character and complexity of the spirit to shine through. Backed by more than 50 years of collective blending and distilling experience, Watchman reflects both the legacy of the craft and the forward-thinking spirit of Round Barn Distillery.
“For us, taking the distillery to the next level isn’t just about growth; it’s about innovation, creativity, and elevating the entire experience,” said Matthew Moersch, CEO & Owner. “Watchman represents that shift. It’s a powerful first release, and we’re only scratching the surface of what’s to come.”
To celebrate, Round Barn Distillery will host The Barrel Drop, an exclusive launch event at the Bourbon Barn at Round Barn on Saturday, April 18. Guests will have the opportunity to be among the first to experience and purchase Watchman Barrel-Strength Bourbon, available in limited quantities on a first-come, first-served basis.
Following the initial release, Watchman will be available at Round Barn locations while supplies last, with limited allocations also distributed to select wholesale and retail partners.
About Round Barn Distillery
Located in the heart of Southwest Michigan, Round Barn Distillery is known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and handcrafted spirits. As part of the Moersch Hospitality Group portfolio, Round Barn continues to push the boundaries of Michigan distilling while staying rooted in tradition.
Sources consulted:
- Round Barn Winery, Brewery & Distillery
- Private correspondance with RoundBarn PR Agency