Another one where the 5-point rating system falls short...this is better than a 4, but not quite a 5. In any event, the aroma is somewhat woody, with hints of sugarcane and butter along with alcohol astringency. The palate, thankfully, is considerably superior. Rich butterscotch coats the palate, mixed with baking spices and just a touch too much wood before concluding with a dry, sweet finish. Quite surprising the amount of spice in this given there's no rye in the mashbill. A genuinely good variation of the wheated bourbons; superior to Maker's Mark, comparable to (yet distinctly different from) Maker's 46, but not quite as excellent as Weller's 107. Try this if you find traditional wheated bourbons overly sweet, or if you desire a bit more "smoothness" than in your standard rye-blend drinks.
Old Fitzgerald 12 Year Very Special Bourbon
Whiskey Bourbon Kentucky 12 Year 45% ABV
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About this bottle
Old Fitzgerald Bourbon, initially launched in the late 1800s, was later produced by the Stitzel-Weller Distillery in Shively, KY. Diageo acquired the Stitzel-Weller Distillery in the 1990s, gaining ownership of the Old Fitzgerald brand. Subsequently, Heaven Hill purchased the Old Fitz brand and the Bernheim Distillery in Louisville, KY, where this well-regarded 12-year wheated bourbon is now produced, maintaining the wheated recipe style established at the former S-W Distillery.
How it tastes
Measured across 14 flavor axes. Tap a note to find other bottles that lead with it.
Reviews
Showing the most detailed of 12 parsed reviews.
During an evening of tastings, this was the first of six. Right after opening, the aroma had a burst of cherry, marshmallow, and crème brûlée. I didn't let it sit and open up as much as it should have, but there was whiskey to be enjoyed... The palate was incredibly soft and velvety, almost comforting. It was full of cotton candy, anise, and a subtle hint of oak, but absolutely no bitterness or tannins. This led to a medium vanilla finish, which was unremarkable. I appreciate the wax-covered screw top and the understated label that simply states “VERY SPECIAL.” While I assume these are becoming rare, it was a special experience to sit and enjoy it with a friend. I would easily compare it to an Eagle Rare if I were drinking it alone.
Excellent aroma, featuring notes of baking spices, caramel, and florals. Also, a somewhat tart vanilla. The palate initially presents strong wood influence and a lingering bitterness. A quick taste of brown sugar is followed by leather and turpentine. Occasionally, a hint of overripe orchard fruit emerges. The finish is extended and peppery. This has a lot of character. 9/13/17
Received this from a friend; it's quite good and indeed comparable to regular Old Fitz. The aroma is familiar, featuring spicy, leathery, and woody notes, leading to a clean, crisp conclusion.
Tastes exactly like grape Kool-Aid, not real grape. The aroma is delicious, and the flavor is good, but it's extremely sweet.
Damn, special to try this. Awesome pour. Thanks a friend, what a night. You're the greatest of all time.
6 more reviews were collected for this bottle. The longest ones are shown first.
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Closest flavor profiles across the whole catalog.
