Early Times Bourbon 1982 miniature

From the heart of Kentucky comes a truly vintage expression: the 1982 Early Times Straight Bourbon Whisky. This bottle represents a significant piece of distilling history, embodying the quality and tradition that made Kentucky bourbons famous. A rare find for collectors and connoisseurs, this is an opportunity to taste a bygone era.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A captivating aroma of well-aged oak, sweet caramel, and dried dark fruits like fig and apricot. Hints of worn leather, baking spices (cinnamon, nutmeg), and a faint earthiness linger in the background, suggesting a deep, matured character that belies the lack of age statement. A touch of nutty sweetness, perhaps pecan or almond, develops with air.

Palate: A surprisingly robust and full-bodied entry, immediately presenting with classic bourbon sweetness of vanilla bean and brown sugar. This is quickly balanced by a complex array of oak spices – a gentle char, clove, and black pepper. The dried fruit notes from the nose resurface, mingling with chewy toffee and a subtle, pleasant bitterness akin to dark chocolate. Despite the unknown proof, there's a satisfying warmth that spreads across the palate, guiding towards a smooth, well-integrated experience.

Finish: Long and lingering, the finish leaves a comforting embrace of sweet oak, vanilla, and a soft, lingering spice. Traces of roasted nuts and a faint hint of tobacco leaf gently recede, inviting another sip. The overall impression is one of maturity and balance, with no harsh edges, showcasing the quality of distillation and cask management from a bygone era.

About the Distillery

Early Times Distillery, established in 1860, boasts a rich heritage in Kentucky bourbon production. For decades, it was a prominent name, recognized for its commitment to traditional distilling methods. While ownership has shifted over the years, this 1982 bottling stands as a testament to the brand's enduring legacy and its profound impact on the state's whisky fame, as proudly declared on its label.