Experience a piece of bourbon history with the 1988 Very Old Barton, an 8-year-old, hand-crafted expression from a storied Kentucky distillery. This vintage bottling offers an exceptional balance of complex aged flavors and traditional sweetness, making it a truly captivating and memorable pour. A rare opportunity to savor a limited-edition, aged classic.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A sophisticated greeting of aged oak, intertwined with sweet vanilla, caramel, and a hint of toasted almond. Subtler notes of dried apricot, worn leather, and a whisper of baking spice (cinnamon, nutmeg) emerge with time in the glass, hinting at its maturity.

Palate: The entry is remarkably smooth and medium-bodied, spreading across the palate with a rich wave of butterscotch and dark chocolate. The oak influence is gracefully present but not overpowering, offering notes of seasoned lumber and a touch of earthiness. Caramelized sugar, dried cherry, and a faint peppery spice (white pepper, clove) develop mid-palate, balanced by the familiar vanilla sweetness. It offers an elegant interplay between mellow sweetness and a refined oak spice.

Finish: A long, warm, and satisfying finish that tapers gently. The oak persists, integrated with lingering vanilla and a pleasant, dry char. Traces of dark fruit, a whisper of tobacco, and a final, subtle spice tingle remain, inviting another sip. The overall impression is one of classic elegance and well-integrated maturity.

About the Distillery

Barton Distilling Company, founded in 1879 by Tom Moore, is known for its deep roots in Kentucky bourbon production. Over its long history, the distillery has produced a variety of popular brands, maintaining a tradition of quality and consistency in its whiskies, often at accessible price points. Today, it operates under the Sazerac Company and continues to be a significant player in the bourbon industry, crafting spirits that honor its heritage.