2009 Jefferson's Presidential Select 17 Year Stitzel Weller 94 Proof 750ml

Distilled from wheat in the fall of 1991 and matured for an impressive 17 years in legendary Stitzel-Weller barrels, this Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey is a truly singular expression. A connoisseur's bourbon, it offers a medium but firm body and a complex finish that elegantly balances its advanced age with a subtly muted character. This is a rare opportunity to taste a piece of bourbon history, bottled from Batch No. 1.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A sophisticated and inviting bouquet opens with soft, sweet notes of caramel, vanilla bean, and toasted marshmallow, characteristic of long-aged bourbon. Underlying these are delicate hints of dried apricot, old leather, and a whisper of almond from the wheat, balanced by a subtle oak spice and a floral, almost rose-like quality.

Palate: The palate is remarkably smooth and medium-bodied, a testament to its age and the softening influence of wheat. Initial flavors of butterscotch and crème brûlée give way to ripe dark cherry and plum, interwoven with toasted nuts and baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The Stitzel-Weller heritage is evident in a creamy, velvety texture and a gentle, persistent warmth that spreads across the tongue, avoiding any harshness.

Finish: A complex and lingering finish that gradually evolves. It begins with notes of sweet pipe tobacco and worn leather, transitioning into a delightful interplay of dark chocolate, dried fruit, and a final, elegant hint of seasoned oak and spearmint. The wheat contribution ensures a soft, almost ethereal fade, leaving a pleasant warmth and a desire for the next sip.