Old Bardstown
Price History
Overview
Old Bardstown represents a noteworthy entry into the bourbon scene from Willett Distillery, utilizing a historic family recipe that emphasizes a unique mashbill. This Bottled-in-Bond expression showcases a balance of sweet vanilla and spicy character, making it a compelling choice for both newcomers and seasoned whiskey drinkers.
Specs at a glance
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Style | Whiskey |
| ABV | 50% |
| Mashbill | 72% corn, 13% rye, 15% malted barley |
| Release Info | Bottled-in-Bond, aged a minimum of 4 years, produced at Willett Distillery. MSRP around $22. |
| Age | NAS (minimum 4 years) |
Good to know
Old Bardstown was reintroduced by Willett in 2012 as they began distilling their own bourbon again after years of sourcing. This marks a significant step for the distillery, showcasing their craft while offering an accessible price point.
Tasting notes
- Nose: Light floral notes mingle with brown sugar and toasty cereals, accented by a touch of cinnamon and anise spice.
- Palate: The flavor profile unfolds with sweet vanilla, dry wood, and a hint of barrel char, delivering a pleasant complexity.
- Finish: A warm, spicy finish lingers, complemented by a touch of clove and refreshing mint.
Notable details
- Production: Bottled in Bond standards, ensuring quality with a 100 proof strength.
- Lineage: Built on Willett's historic recipes, showcasing their craftsmanship since 2012.
- Comparison: Often likened to other budget-friendly bourbons like Evan Williams Black Label, but with a unique malt influence that sets it apart.
- Availability: Typically found in Kentucky, making it a local favorite but not widely distributed.
Serving suggestions
- Enjoy neat or with a splash of water to enhance its floral and cereal notes.
- Works well in cocktails, adding depth without overwhelming sweetness.
“A surprising delicacy that belies its 100 proof strength.” – Source
Closing
Old Bardstown Bottled-in-Bond proves that quality bourbon doesn’t have to break the bank, offering a delightful balance of flavors for those who appreciate craftsmanship in every sip.
Sources
[1] Whiskey Reviewer – “Old Bardstown Bottled In Bond Bourbon Review”, Feb 2017
[2] Bourbon Guy – “Willett-Distilled Bourbon: Old Bardstown Bottled in Bond”, Oct 2016
[3] Drinkhacker – “Review: Old Bardstown Bourbon and Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon”, Sep 2018
[4] Whiskey in My Wedding Ring – “Old Bardstown Bottled-In-Bond”, Date Unknown
[5] Breaking Bourbon – “Old Bardstown Estate Bourbon Review”, Date Unknown