Ancient Age 6-year Bourbon 1989 miniature

From the heart of Kentucky comes this authentic 1989 Ancient Age Straight Bourbon, a testament to traditional distilling. Aged for six years, this expression offers a beautifully balanced and approachable whiskey, perfect for those seeking a smooth and classic bourbon experience.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A surprisingly delicate and inviting nose opens with classic bourbon sweetness, featuring notes of caramelized sugar, soft vanilla bean, and a hint of corn pudding. Underlying fruit notes of dried apricot and faint apple emerge, intertwined with a gentle waft of aged oak, very subtle leather, and a whisper of almond. The low proof keeps the alcohol presence minimal, allowing these nuanced aromas to shine.

Palate: The palate, while light-bodied, offers a delightful array of flavors. Sweet caramel and butterscotch lead the charge, quickly followed by warm vanilla and a touch of brown sugar. The oak is present but not dominant, lending a pleasant drying quality with hints of baking spice – perhaps a touch of cinnamon and nutmeg. There's a subtle nuttiness, reminiscent of roasted peanuts or pecans, that adds depth. Given the 66 proof, the mouthfeel is surprisingly smooth and easy, almost velvety, without any harsh edges.

Finish: A clean, relatively short, but pleasant finish. The sweetness lingers briefly with fading caramel and vanilla, leaving a gentle warmth. A slight oaky dryness and a faint whisper of spice, reminiscent of white pepper, conclude the experience. It's a soft, approachable finish that invites the next sip.

About the Distillery

The Ancient Age Distilling Co. has a long and storied history in Frankfort, Kentucky, tracing its roots back to the late 19th century. While the name 'Ancient Age' has seen various iterations and ownerships, it has consistently produced accessible and traditional Kentucky Straight Bourbon. In 1989, when this particular bottle was distilled, the distillery was part of a larger continuum that eventually led to what we now know as Buffalo Trace, though the Ancient Age brand maintained its distinct identity and production methods.