Bourbon enthusiasts, listen up: Old Hickory Bourbon is making a bold statement with the release of two new, seriously aged expressions – a 12-year and a 15-year-old bourbon. These releases represent a significant investment in patience, a dedication to crafting a richer, more complex drinking experience, and a clear signal that the rewards of waiting for a bourbon to truly mature are worth the anticipation. As reported by *BourbonBlog*, Old Hickory is specifically targeting serious bourbon aficionados who appreciate the nuances and depth that only extended aging can deliver.
Why You Should Care: The Power of Time
The fundamental principle behind exceptional bourbon, and indeed many fine spirits, is time. The longer a bourbon spends nestled within its oak barrel, the more profoundly its flavor profile develops. Just like a fine wine, the character of the bourbon evolves over years, offering deeper, more complex notes – ranging from subtle spice and dried fruit to rich vanilla and dark chocolate. This release signals a growing recognition that waiting for a bourbon to fully mature isn’t a “crime” or a waste of time, but rather an investment in a truly superior tasting experience. It’s a return to a more traditional approach, acknowledging that patience can unlock unparalleled flavor.
The Players & The Pour: Crafting a Legacy
Old Hickory Bourbon, proudly produced by the Lawrenceburg Distilling Company, continues to uphold its unwavering commitment to a traditional, time-tested recipe. The spirit is meticulously crafted using a mash bill of corn, rye, and malted barley – all sourced directly from the Lawrenceburg, Indiana area, ensuring a connection to the bourbon’s roots. This commitment to local ingredients adds another layer of character to the final product. According to *Whisky Advocate*, these releases are poised to appeal specifically to those seeking a richer, fuller-bodied bourbon, one that delivers a more substantial mouthfeel and a complex tapestry of flavors.
The 12-year expression is priced around $60, offering an accessible entry point into this extended aging program. The 15-year-old, representing the pinnacle of patience, is slightly higher, reflecting the increased aging time and the greater concentration of developed flavors. Beyond the core ingredients, *ScotchWhisky.com* delves into the science behind the aging process, providing a fascinating insight into the factors that contribute to the final product. They highlight how elements like barrel size (likely a combination of charred American oak barrels), the Kentucky climate’s impact on maturation, and the distillation techniques employed all play a crucial role in shaping the bourbon’s character. This intricate interplay of variables elevates Old Hickory’s release beyond a simple aging process, transforming it into a carefully orchestrated process.
Key Takeaways: What to Expect
Let’s recap what you can anticipate with these new releases:
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Extended Aging:
Both the 12-year and 15-year expressions have spent considerable time maturing in oak barrels, allowing for a significant transformation of the spirit.
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Traditional Approach:
Lawrenceburg Distilling Company remains steadfastly dedicated to its time-tested recipe, ensuring consistency and quality.
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Rich Flavor Profile:
Expect a fuller-bodied bourbon with complex, well-developed notes that will likely evolve beautifully on the palate. Initial reports suggest notes of caramel, toasted oak, dried fruit, and perhaps a hint of spice.
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Competitive Pricing:
Starting around $60, these releases offer a premium bourbon experience – a chance to savor a seriously aged spirit – without the exorbitant price tag often associated with hyped-up, ultra-rare brands.
Resources for Further Exploration
Want to learn more about these exciting releases? Here are some excellent resources to delve deeper:
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Don’t miss the opportunity to experience the dedication and artistry behind these exceptional new expressions. It’s a testament to the idea that the best things in life – and the best bourbons – are often worth waiting for.
