Despite his busy schedule, country music star Dierks Bentley took the time to sit down with Brentwood Lifestyle to talk all things Row 94 and share his exciting plans for the rest of 2025.
1. First and foremost, congratulations on Row 94! Tell me all about the thought process behind the brand and how it came to be.
Thanks! I’m really proud of Row 94, it’s been a long time coming. The name actually comes from a pretty personal place for me. 1994 is the year I moved to Nashville and really started my journey in country music, and ‘Row’ refers to Music Row in Nashville (and also Whiskey Row.) So, Row 94 is a bit of a nod to where it all started, and it represents that sense of home and the journey for me.
2. What sets Row 94 apart from other whiskeys?
What really makes Row 94 stand out is the balance we’ve achieved. I wanted something that’s smooth but still has a lot of character… a bourbon that you can sip and enjoy straight but also works really well in cocktails. We worked with some amazing people in the industry to make sure the flavor profile was just right. It’s rich, it’s full-bodied, but it’s not overwhelming. The complexity is there, but it’s easy to drink. It’s approachable and has a little something for everyone. That balance is key, and I think people are really responding to it.
3. Going in, what qualities did you want this whiskey to have?
When we started out, I really wanted a bourbon that had depth, something that would stand up to the test of time but still be smooth enough for any occasion. It was also important to me for it to be a 4-year-old Kentucky Straight bourbon, because that’s what I myself drink. My partner wanted it to be under $40 a bottle, so it was all a balancing act… but I really think we’ve created a top-shelf bourbon that doesn’t break the bank.
4. Talk me through the design of the bottle.
I wanted the design to be classic and timeless, so we went with a sleek, simple look and clean lines. Some of my long-time fans probably remember the thunderbird from the cover of Riser, it’s something I’ve always had a connection to and symbolizes strength, resilience, and optimism. That’s what I wanted Row 94 to stand for. We all work hard, we all go through struggles, but there’s this belief in making the most of each day and finding joy along the way. I think that’s what Row 94 captures. An appreciation for life and the people who live it with heart and purpose. It’s about celebrating the little things, whether it’s a great song, a great moment, or a great glass of whiskey.
5. What does the support you’ve garnered from fans and whiskey lovers mean to you as you’ve embarked on this new endeavor?
It means the world to me. I’ve been lucky enough to have incredible fans who’ve supported me through my music career, and to see that same love and support coming through for Row 94 has been amazing. Whiskey brings people together, and when I see people sharing a bottle of Row 94 or talking about how much they love it, it’s a great feeling. It’s not just about making a good product, it’s about creating an experience. And knowing that people are enjoying it makes all the hard work worth it.
6. Aside from drinking it straight – because it is that good - what are your favorite drinks to make with Row 94?
When I'm on the road making music, I like to keep it simple (and usually in a solo cup.) But if I'm mixing it up, a good WithCo Old Fashioned is always a favorite.
7. Between your busy schedule of being a successful, touring musician to owning your own bar on Broadway, to now curating your very own whiskey, you seem to always have something fun up your sleeve! Any other things in the works you can share?
Absolutely! I’ve got some exciting stuff coming up. I released a new song and video for “She Hates Me” in February and dropped a single with one of my favorite new artists, Stephen Wilson Jr., called “Cold Beer Can” in March. This summer, I’ll be hitting the road with Zach Top and The Band Loula—I’m pumped to perform some new tunes live and see my fans again.
"It represents that sense of home and the journey for me."