Heaven Hill 20-year Cadenhead's 175th Anniversary 2017 (pre-fire)

Experience a rare piece of bourbon history with Cadenhead's 175th Anniversary bottling from Heaven Hill. This exquisite 20-year-old expression delivers unparalleled depth and complexity, a testament to decades of careful maturation. A must-have for serious collectors and connoisseurs seeking a truly exceptional American whiskey.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A sophisticated and inviting bouquet, showcasing layers of dried dark fruits like figs and dates, intertwined with rich leather, well-worn oak, and a subtle whisper of pipe tobacco. Underlying sweetness of brown sugar, candied nuts, and a delicate floral note emerge, hinting at its immense age. A slight ethanol presence is detectable but well-integrated, indicative of the proof.

Palate: The entry is rich and viscous, immediately enveloping the palate with a complex interplay of sweet and savory. Dark caramel and toffee notes lead, quickly followed by a robust oak presence that is remarkably balanced and not overly tannic. Hints of baking spices – cinnamon, nutmeg, and a touch of clove – mingle with dark chocolate, espresso bean, and a profound nutty character. The fruit notes from the nose resurface, now more prominent as dried cherry and plum. A surprisingly vibrant acidity keeps it from becoming cloying.

Finish: Long, warm, and exceptionally evolving. The oak slowly fades, leaving behind lingering notes of dark chocolate, cured tobacco, and a persistent sweet spice. A gentle char and a faint minerality emerge, alongside a touch of orange peel. The finish dries elegantly, inviting another sip, concluding with a memorable embrace of mature bourbon character.

About the Distillery

Heaven Hill Distillery, founded in 1935, is the largest independent family-owned and -operated distillery in America. Located in Bardstown, Kentucky, it's known for producing a wide array of bourbons, including iconic brands like Elijah Craig and Henry McKenna, often celebrated for their age and quality. They maintain one of the largest bourbon inventories in the world.