I tend to look at Bourbon in two groups, and that's usually reflected in open bottles in our pantry. First are the easy sippers, usually at lower proof. Good examples of this are Blanton's and Longbranch. Second are the full flavored and higher proof whiskies, which are typically my preference. These may be Bottled-in-Bond at 100 proof or go even higher. At the moment, of the second group I have a Knob Creek single barrel (store pick) at 120 proof and an Old Grand Dad 114. The OGD 114 merits a closer look, and we'll do that today.
The Old Grand Dad brand is made at the Jim Beam distillery in Clermont Kentucky, and is owned by Beam Suntory. The name refers to the famous grand-dad of the original brand owner and maker. That grandfather was Meredith Basil Hayden Sr, who these days has another brand of whiskey displaying his name (of which I'm not a fan). Old Grand Dad has been made since 1840, meaning it survived Prohibition, and today is sold at three different proofs. The 80 proof has an orange label, the 100 proof BiB version has a similar orange label with black backing, and the 114 has a mostly black label and comes in a shorter, fatter bottle. The packaging all looks intentionally old-timey, and OGD has even been marketed by Beam with Old Overholt Rye (mentioned in my Bourbon or Rye? post) as 'The Olds.'
I haven't had the 80 proof Old Grand Dad more than once, but I remember it being perfectly fine for a cheap Bourbon and at less than $20 a bottle that's exactly what it is. The 114 is a considerable step up, and still remains an extremely affordable bottle compared to others at similar proof and quality. That's why it's special.
We're talking about Bourbon obviously, and nothing remains a secret in that world for long. I'd have to assume OGD 114 has been for a while a hidden gem, but like so many others it's becoming harder to find. Not impossible by any means (yet?), just a bit more unusual. Luckily the price remains very reasonable.
Time to sample some.
Stats:
ABV - 57% (114 proof)
Mash - 63% corn, 27% rye, 10% malted barley, according to several reviews (nothing official)
Maturation - New charred oak
Age - At least 2 years, probably 4-5 (previously had 6 year age statement)
Location - Kentucky
Price - ~$30
Tasting Notes:
Smell - Clearly strong but not cheap, brown sugar and rye spice
Color - Solid though not overly dark amber
Taste - Rich, oaky fruit and sugar at first followed by pepper and spices (plus vanilla?)
Finish - Long, full bodied and warm, dry and faintly sweet, smoother than expected
Final Thoughts:
This became something I like much more after really trying to taste it. It punches you in the mouth and the mixture of flavors works exceptionally well. The extra high rye for a Bourbon is evident and contributes noticeably to this strong and flavorful whiskey. A burn is there, but it's gentler than you'd assume at 114 proof. The real kicker is the price. An amazing value.
The long and the short of it is this. If you're looking for a solid, interesting, affordable, higher proof Bourbon, then keep your eyes open for this. It should be out there.
Commentaires