Experience a true piece of bourbon history with the Old Taylor 1969, an exceptionally rare and elegantly aged straight bourbon whiskey. Crafted by the legendary E.H. Taylor Jr.'s distillery, this vintage bottling offers a remarkably smooth and complex profile, a testament to time and masterful distillation. A treasure for any connoisseur, this embodies the 'Topmost Class' it proudly proclaims.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A sophisticated and complex bouquet opens with soft, aged leather and polished antique oak, indicative of its significant age. Delicate notes of dried stone fruit—apricot and fig—emerge, intertwined with subtle vanilla bean and a hint of dusty cocoa powder. A gentle spice, reminiscent of star anise and old-fashioned chewing tobacco, lingers underneath, promising a rich experience.

Palate: The entry is remarkably smooth and mellow, showcasing the elegance of well-aged bourbon at a moderate proof. A cascade of caramel and toffee first coats the tongue, quickly followed by a beautiful harmony of dried cherries and plums. The oak influence is present but exceptionally well-integrated, manifesting as a gentle, sweet wood spice rather than bitterness. Hints of browned butter, black pepper, and a faint whisper of mint develop mid-palate, adding layers of intrigue.

Finish: The finish is long, warm, and remarkably clean for its age, leaving a lingering impression of sweet baking spices—cinnamon and nutmeg—and a delicate pipe tobacco character. A final, faint echo of dried fruit and vanilla bean gently fades, inviting another sip. The absence of harsh tannins or excessive heat at 86 proof highlights its masterful distillation and maturation.

About the Distillery

The Old Taylor Distillery Company, founded by Colonel E.H. Taylor Jr., is steeped in bourbon history. Taylor was a visionary figure in the industry, an ardent advocate for the Bottled-in-Bond Act, and a pioneer in distillery design and practices. This particular bottling comes from a significant era before many of the industry shifts, reflecting traditional craftsmanship and a commitment to quality that defined Taylor's legacy.