James E. Pepper 1776 Straight Bourbon is a high-rye straight bourbon whiskey with over 38% rye in the mash bill, non-chill filtered and bottled at 100 proof (50% ABV).
Established in 1780, during the American Revolution, the Pepper family brand is the oldest brand of whiskey made in Kentucky. Its scion, Colonel James E. Pepper, fondly called it Old 1776, and some of the most important events and people in bourbon history had a connection to the family. The original Pepper Distillery closed its doors in 1958 as whiskey's popularity declined after World War II.
The award-winning 1776 label was launched in 2012 to revive the old brand, and it has since grown into a modern favorite. Bottled at 100 proof without chill filtration, it brings a lot to the table, with a mash bill carrying over 38% rye for a spicy edge.
Expect rich bourbon sweetness and rye spice, with vanilla, honey, cloves and chocolate. The nose opens with peppery caramel and a few light fruits, and citrus and herbal spice settle in as it breathes.
Neat, over ice, or in a proper Old Fashioned, this whiskey rocks; its high rye content also makes it a lively choice for a Manhattan or a Whiskey Sour.
Bourbon must be made in the United States from a mash of at least 51% corn and aged in new charred oak containers, and straight bourbon must be aged at least two years. Those rules give bourbon its characteristic sweetness, with caramel and vanilla drawn from the charred barrels.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Peppery caramel, light fruit, citrus, herbal spice.
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Palate: Bourbon sweetness, rye spice, vanilla, honey, cloves, chocolate.
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Finish: Warm and spicy.
Specifications
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Brand: James E. Pepper (est. 1780)
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Style: Straight bourbon, high rye
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Mash bill: Over 38% rye
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Filtration: Non-chill filtered
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Proof / ABV: 100 proof (50% ABV)
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Sip it neat or over ice, or stir a proper Old Fashioned.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why 1776?
Colonel James E. Pepper fondly called the family whiskey Old 1776.
How much rye is in it?
Over 38% rye in the mash bill.
What does it taste like?
Vanilla, honey, cloves and chocolate with rye spice.
Explore more in our Bourbon collection.
