Experience a genuine piece of bourbon history with the Old Taylor 1969. This 86-proof Kentucky Straight Bourbon, bottled more than half a century ago, offers a remarkably smooth and complex journey through time, showcasing the distinguished craftsmanship from one of bourbon's most legendary distilleries. A true testament to aged excellence, it embodies the 'topmost class' promised on its iconic yellow label.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A captivating and complex nose, immediately revealing classic old bourbon characteristics. Initial notes of aged oak and rich caramel are prominent, followed by a delicate interplay of dried apricot, fig, and a hint of worn leather. There's a subtle undertone of tobacco leaf and a whisper of baking spices – nutmeg, cinnamon, and a touch of clove. A faint, almost elusive floral note, perhaps dried rose petal, adds to its elegance. The low proof allows these nuanced aromas to emerge without alcohol dominance.

Palate: The palate is remarkably smooth and remarkably flavorful for its proof, a testament to the quality of the distillate and aging. A sweet, honeyed entry quickly transitions to a robust core of dark fruit – dried cherry and plum – intertwined with rich toffee and butterscotch. The aged oak presence is refined, providing structure without bitterness. Undertones of black tea, a gentle nuttiness (roasted almond), and a touch of dark chocolate emerge, balanced by a subtle spiciness that warms the mid-palate rather than burns. The mouthfeel is surprisingly full-bodied and velvety, coating the tongue beautifully.

Finish: The finish is long, elegant, and exceptionally well-balanced. It gently fades with lingering notes of dark caramel, sweet oak, and a faint echo of dried fruit. A soft, warming spice lingers, along with a pleasant minerality and a touch of cocoa powder. There's no harshness, only a clean, satisfying warmth that invites another sip. The absence of a strong alcohol burn allows the complex aged flavors to truly shine on the fade.

About the Distillery

The Old Taylor Distillery Company, founded by Colonel E.H. Taylor, Jr., was a groundbreaking distillery renowned for its innovative designs, including limestone-filtered spring water and opulent castle-like architecture. In production from the late 19th century through Prohibition and beyond, it produced highly regarded bourbons, frequently setting industry standards for quality and authenticity. This 1969 bottling represents a period where the distillery was still producing exceptional whiskey, prior to later ownership and eventual halts in production.