Old Bardstown Estate Bottled is a Kentucky straight bourbon distilled, aged and bottled by the Willett Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, at 101 proof (50.5% ABV).
Willett's bourbon story is a family story: the distillery was founded in 1936 by A. Lambert Willett just outside Bardstown and remains family owned today. Old Bardstown is an homage to an earlier era of accessible, no-frills bourbon, with a squat, shouldered bottle and a sepia-toned, horse-adorned label. It uses a mash bill of 72% corn, 13% rye and 15% malted barley, a malted barley share well above most bourbons, and is aged at least four years in new charred American oak.
The nose is sweet, herbal and citrusy. The palate is herbaceous, with sweet fruit and vanilla on a layer of oak and earthiness, alongside honey, mint and cinnamon, leading to a warm, long finish.
Its classic estate label makes it a fine gift for bourbon traditionalists.
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.
Bottled in Bardstown, the heart of bourbon country, it reflects the town's long distilling tradition.
At 101 proof, a few drops of water open up the herbal and citrus notes.
The higher malted barley share adds a soft, bready richness to the palate.
It makes a bold Old Fashioned that holds its own against sugar and bitters.
A large ice cube tames the heat for slow sipping.
Serve it in a Glencairn or rocks glass to enjoy the full aroma.
It is a dependable everyday pour for bourbon lovers who like extra strength.
Pair a dram with smoked meats to echo its oak and earth.
Its old-school label looks right at home on a classic bar shelf.
It also stands up well in a Whiskey Sour.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Sweet, herbal, citrus.
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Palate: Sweet fruit, vanilla, honey, mint.
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Finish: Oak, earth, cinnamon.
Specifications
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Distillery: Willett Distillery, Bardstown, Kentucky
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Style: Kentucky straight bourbon
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Mash Bill: 72% corn, 13% rye, 15% malted barley
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Age: At least 4 years
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Proof / ABV: 101 proof (50.5% ABV)
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Region: Kentucky, USA
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Size: 750ml
How to Enjoy It
Sip it neat or with a splash of water, or build a robust Old Fashioned or Boulevardier. It pairs with smoked brisket, pecan pie or sharp cheddar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who makes Old Bardstown?
The Willett Distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky.
What is the mash bill?
72% corn, 13% rye and 15% malted barley.
What is the proof?
101 proof (50.5% ABV).
Explore more in our Bourbon collection.
