Old Fitzgerald Bottled-in-Bond Bourbon Stitzel-Weller, Distilled Spring 1964, Bottled Fall 1970 (50%)

This Old Fitzgerald is a Kentucky straight bourbon, Bottled-in-Bond at 50% ABV (100 proof). It was distilled at Stitzel-Weller in Louisville in spring 1964 and bottled in autumn 1970, after about six years in new charred oak. Spring 1964 was the last distilling season under Julian 'Pappy' Van Winkle, who retired that year. The mashbill is wheated, at roughly 75% corn, 20% wheat and 5% malted barley. The nose brings butterscotch, baking spice, soft oak, honeyed wheat, vanilla and dried fruit. The palate is mellow and rich, with caramel, toffee, gentle spice, cured tobacco and soft oak tannin. The finish is long and warm, with lingering sweetness.