Kentucky Gentleman 1990

From a bygone era, this 1999 Kentucky Gentleman offers a taste of classic American bourbon craftsmanship, bottled by the historic Barton Distilling Company. Its 'Superb Quality' is immediately apparent, delivering a smooth and approachable profile of sweet vanilla and gentle oak, making it an ideal pour for reflective moments. This isn't just a bourbon; it's a nostalgic journey in a glass, a testament to a specific moment in time for a storied Kentucky distillery.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A surprisingly delicate and inviting nose for its proof, revealing classic bourbon notes of sweet corn, vanilla bean, and a faint whisper of caramel. Underlying these are hints of dried apricot and a subtle, almost dusty oak, suggesting its age. There's a pleasant, slightly floral lift, reminiscent of honeysuckle, without any harsh ethanol bite.

Palate: The palate arrives with a gentle warmth, immediately presenting a clean, sweet corn sweetness followed by creamy vanilla and a touch of butterscotch. As it develops, a modest spice emerges—think white pepper and a whisper of cinnamon—intertwined with light toasted oak and a subtle nuttiness, perhaps roasted almond. It’s remarkably smooth for 86 proof, carrying its flavors with a refined balance, avoiding any cloying sweetness or abrasive edges. The body is medium-light, offering an easy-drinking experience.

Finish: The finish is medium in length, clean, and pleasantly soft. Sweet vanilla and fading caramel notes linger softly, accompanied by a touch of drying oak and a lingering, faint spice. There's a delicate interplay of sweet and dry that makes you ready for the next sip, without any bitterness or heat.

About the Distillery

Barton Distilling Company, established in 1879, is one of Kentucky’s oldest continually operating distilleries. Located in Bardstown, the heart of bourbon country, Barton has a rich history producing a diverse portfolio of whiskeys, known for both their accessible offerings and occasional hidden gems, embodying a tradition of quality and craftsmanship that spans generations.