Experience a rare piece of bourbon history with this 1985 Very Old Barton, an 8-year-old expression imported to Italy. Its delicate complexity, marked by subtle oak and nuanced sweetness, offers a taste of a bygone era. A truly unique opportunity for collectors and connoisseurs alike.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A delicate and inviting bouquet, showcasing sweet corn upfront, reminiscent of classic bourbon. Subtle notes of dried apricot and fig emerge, hinting at its age, gracefully intertwined with a whisper of aged oak and a touch of almost flinty mineral character. A faint suggestion of old leather and pipe tobacco adds depth, while a gentle caramel sweetness lingers.

Palate: The palate is surprisingly rich for 80 proof, offering a harmonious balance. Initial flavors of candied orange peel and vanilla bean give way to a soft, sweet caramel and butterscotch. The oak, while present, is well-integrated and not overwhelming, presenting as dried lumber and a hint of baking spice – nutmeg and a touch of cinnamon. A delicate nuttiness, perhaps roasted almond, develops mid-palate, along with a faint echo of rye spice, though it remains soft and rounded.

Finish: A medium-short, elegant finish that is remarkably clean. Sweetness slowly fades, leaving a gentle warmth with a lingering impression of soft oak, a hint of dark chocolate, and a faint, pleasant astringency that cleanses the palate. There's a subtle return of the dried fruit notes from the nose, adding a final touch of complexity.

About the Distillery

Barton Distilling Company, founded in 1879, is a venerable institution in Kentucky bourbon history, known for producing a wide range of whiskies. While undergoing various ownership changes over the decades, it has consistently maintained a reputation for producing traditional, high-quality bourbons, often at accessible price points. This 1985 bottling reflects a snapshot of their enduring distilling heritage.