Experience a taste of bourbon history with this 1990 Early Times Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky. Delicately aged and bottled at a classic 80 proof, it offers a remarkably smooth and nuanced profile, a testament to traditional craftsmanship. Savor its inviting caramel, dried fruit, and gentle oak notes, perfect for a contemplative sip or classic cocktails.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A surprisingly delicate and inviting nose for an 80-proof bourbon from this era. Initial whispers of dried apricot and candied orange peel intermingle with classic caramel and vanilla bean. A faint whisper of old leather and damp oak suggests its age, balanced by a touch of baking spice – cinnamon and a hint of nutmeg. There’s a faint, almost floral sweetness, perhaps honeysuckle, adding complexity.

Palate: The palate opens smoothly, a testament to its lower proof and presumably longer barrel rest. Sweetness leads with brown sugar and a soft, buttery caramel. This is quickly followed by dried fruit notes – fig and dates – and a gentle rye spice that is more peppery than fiery. The oak presence is subtle and mature, offering a pleasant dryness without bitterness. A hint of roasted nuts, possibly almond, emerges mid-palate, giving it depth. The mouthfeel is medium-bodied and surprisingly rich for 80 proof.

Finish: The finish is medium in length and very clean. Caramel and vanilla linger, gradually giving way to a soft, lingering oak spice and a kiss of dried fruit. There's a pleasant dryness that beckons another sip, leaving behind a warm, comforting sensation without any harshness. The lower proof ensures a gentle departure, making it an easy and approachable sipper.

About the Distillery

The Early Times Distillery Company, established in 1860, boasts a rich history rooted in Kentucky bourbon production. While it has seen various ownerships and changes over the decades, the name Early Times is synonymous with traditional bourbon-making, having navigated Prohibition by producing 'medicinal spirits' and maintaining a presence in the American whiskey landscape for over a century and a half. This 1990 bottling represents a snapshot of their enduring commitment to crafting accessible and classic Kentucky Straight Bourbon.