Kentucky Gentleman 1975

Experience a rare journey back in time with Kentucky Gentleman 1975, a superb quality Kentucky Straight Bourbon. This vintage 86-proof bottling from Barton Distilling offers a smooth, complex palate brimming with aged oak, dried fruits, and classic bourbon character. A truly exceptional pour for collectors and connoisseurs seeking a taste of bourbon history.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A captivating, old-school bourbon nose, marked by deep caramel and well-aged oak, often intertwined with dried fruit notes like fig and prune. Delicate spice, perhaps nutmeg or a hint of allspice, emerges along with a subtle, earthy leather and a whisper of tobacco. Undertones of vanilla and a faint nutty quality (almond or pecan) are present, suggesting a mature but not over-oaked character.

Palate: The palate is remarkably smooth and balanced, a hallmark of well-aged spirits from this era. Initial sweetness of butterscotch and dark brown sugar gives way to a complex mid-palate of dried apricot, dark cherry, and a gentle rye spice. The oak presence is refined, providing structure without being tannic, showcasing notes of aged cedar and a subtle smokiness. A creamy texture coats the mouth, leading to persistent flavors of roasted nuts and a touch of dark chocolate.

Finish: Long, warming, and sophisticated. The finish echoes the palate with lingering notes of sweet oak, dried fruit, and a pleasant, mellow spice that slowly fades. A delightful hint of tobacco leaf and a subtle menthol freshness can sometimes be detected, leaving a clean, satisfying dryness that invites another sip. The 86 proof carries the flavors without overwhelming, maintaining a gentle warmth.

About the Distillery

Barton Distilling Company, based in Bardstown, Kentucky, has a rich and storied history dating back to 1879. Over the decades, it has been a consistent producer of quality bourbons, sometimes under various ownerships but always maintaining its distilling traditions. In 1975, Barton would have been operating during a challenging, yet pivotal, time for the bourbon industry, often focusing on producing solid, everyday whiskeys that today represent a fascinating glimpse into vintage bourbon production.