Old Lewis Hunter Imported Kentucky Bourbon (1970s Edition)

A defunct 'Dusty' Bourbon, representing the final, 6-year-old output of the Old Lewis Hunter Distillery.

At-a-Glance

Historical Context

The Old Lewis Hunter brand derives its contemporary value from its status as a relic of a defunct distillery, DSP 5094, located in Lair, Kentucky. The distillery permanently closed its doors in 1974.

This 1970s bottling, carrying a clear 6-year age statement, guarantees the liquid originated from the final distillation stocks of the facility, meaning the bourbon was laid down in the late 1960s. This fact elevates the bottle to holding significant historical artifact status within the world of American whiskey. The intrinsic value of this bourbon is therefore primarily linked to its historical context and scarcity.

The bottling at 43% ABV (86 Proof) and its presence in varying metric sizes (70cl, 0.76l) indicate its intended use as a premium export product, specifically marketed toward European nations like Italy, evidenced by foreign importer marks (e.g., S.I.L.V.A. Bianchi). This export channel has proven vital for the preservation of such "dusty" stocks.

Technical Specification & Variant Map

This product is legally defined as a Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, signifying that it was aged for a minimum of two years and exclusively matured in new charred American oak. The 6-year age statement provides specific assurance of its maturity profile upon bottling in the 1970s. The standard export bottling strength of 43% ABV is the typical specification encountered today.

Documented variants

The most consistently documented version is the 6 Year Old at 43% ABV.2 Records also suggest a variant at 40% ABV existed, which would typically be valued lower than the stronger 43% version due to reduced flavour concentration.

Variant Matrix

Packaging & authenticity checklist

Authentication verification is crucial for defunct distillery stock, particularly concerning fill levels and seals.

Closure Integrity and Fill: Age poses a serious risk to the bottle's cork closure. As such, assessing the fill level (ullage) is critical; high fill levels (Very Top Shoulder or higher) are paramount for retaining premium value. Buyers must accept liability for the state of the closure due to the advanced age of the bottle.

Label Verification: The label must clearly display the "Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey" designation and the 6-year age statement. Confirmation of bottling style and importer marks aligned with the 1970s production window assists in dating the bottle.

Common Mixups: Ensure the liquid is definitively "Kentucky Straight Bourbon," as some historical products labeled "Hunter" or "Lewis" may be miscategorized.

Regulatory/terminology notes

The use of 43% ABV aligns with the 86 Proof standard, common for American premium exports before metrication. The historical status of the DSP 5094 distillery reinforces the non-replicable nature of this bourbon.

Liquid Profile (from verifiable notes)

Nose: Not stated by the producer. Expected notes would include core bourbon aromatics: vanilla, caramel, and dry oak derived from the 6 years in new charred oak.

Palate: Not stated by the producer. The taste is expected to be relatively assertive, exhibiting the typical characteristics of well-aged bourbon at a comfortable drinking proof.

Finish: Not stated by the producer. A long and spicy finish, carrying the oak influence, is generally expected for straight bourbon of this age.

With water: Not stated by the producer.

Pricing & Market Dynamics (GBP)

Pricing is driven by artifact rarity rather than widespread critical appreciation of the liquid itself.

Original RRP (GBP): Not stated by the producer.

Current UK retail range (GBP, incl. VAT): Approximately GBP 379.95. This specialist retail valuation reflects the high premium placed on extinct bourbon provenance.

Recent UK/EU auction range (GBP, hammer): Verifiable recent hammer prices are scarce. European retail asking prices indicate a base value around GBP 255.65.

Price Snapshot

Pricing stratification: Value is heavily weighted toward the closed distillery status and impeccable physical condition. Price realization is maximized by high fill levels.

Liquidity & sourcing note: Very low liquidity. Sourcing depends entirely on locating old private collections, often requiring extensive searches in European territories where the product was originally exported.

Distillery/Bottler Snapshot

The Old Lewis Hunter Distillery (DSP 5094) represents a segment of pre-consolidation Kentucky bourbon production that ceased operation in 1974. Its extant bottles offer a historical snapshot of bourbon production methods from that specific era.

Sourcing

Target formats/eras

Target 6-year-old expressions at 43% ABV with clear 1970s bottling hallmarks, primarily found in export markets.

Red flags to avoid

Low fill levels below mid-shoulder indicate probable liquid degradation. Caution is advised if the age statement or "Kentucky Straight Bourbon" designation is absent.

Condition thresholds

The priority is excellent liquid condition confirmed by a high fill level. Label integrity is also critical for market presentation.

Margin/velocity expectations

Low velocity, high margin product, appealing exclusively to collectors of extinct American whiskey brands.