We are exploring Heaven Hill's newest offering in the celebrated Old Fitzgerald lineup—the 7-year Bottled in Bond expression that's making waves for its accessibility and exceptional quality. As we crack open this stunning bottle, we trace the remarkable heritage of Old Fitzgerald from its 1870 origins serving rail lines and private clubs to its time under Pappy Van Winkle's stewardship as the famous "whisper of wheat." The story of how Heaven Hill acquired this treasured brand in 1999 sets the stage for understanding why today's release matters so much to bourbon lovers.
The tasting reveals a perfectly balanced wheated bourbon with a fruit-forward nose reminiscent of brown sugar-coated bananas that transitions to a palate dominated by baking spices, vanilla, and sweet bread notes. At 100 proof and seven years old, it challenges conventional wisdom about the necessity of extended aging, proving that masterful distilling and careful barrel selection can create exceptional bourbon at a younger age than many premium offerings.
What makes this release particularly exciting is its price point—typically around $60 at retail, significantly less than the coveted Decanter Series bottles that often command $125 or more. We debate whether the older expressions justify their premium and celebrate Heaven Hill's decision to make this a regular, twice-yearly release with distinctive green (spring) and gold (fall) labels.
Whether you're a seasoned bourbon collector or simply appreciate quality whiskey that won't break the bank, this episode offers valuable insights into one of the most anticipated new regular releases in the American whiskey landscape. As always, we're here to help you navigate the world of bourbon, because we believe what matters most isn't just what's in your glass—it's who you're sharing it with.
