I.W. Harper Gold Medal Liter 1987

Step back in time with the L.W. Harper Gold Medal 1987, an exceptionally smooth Kentucky Straight Bourbon. This vintage bottle offers a delicate balance of caramel, dried fruit, and soft spice, a true testament to classic bourbon craftsmanship. Experience a piece of bourbon history with every refined sip.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A delicate and inviting bouquet, showcasing dried apricots, candied orange peel, and well-integrated vanilla. Subtle hints of old leather and polished oak emerge, underscored by faint floral notes and a signature Harper light spice of nutmeg and faint allspice. A whisper of pipe tobacco adds an intriguing depth.

Palate: The palate is remarkably smooth and approachable, a testament to its 80 proof. Initial notes of sweet caramel and butterscotch greet the tongue, quickly followed by gentle baking spices – cinnamon, clove, and a touch of ginger. There's a subtle nuttiness, perhaps roasted almonds, and a persistent echo of dried fruit. The oak influence is present but beautifully restrained, suggesting a long, slow maturation without overpowering the more delicate flavors.

Finish: A surprisingly lengthy and elegant finish for its proof, beginning with a warm, lingering sweetness that slowly transitions to soft woody notes and a gentle, peppery spice. Hints of dark chocolate and a faint echo of tobacco leaf round out a clean and satisfying conclusion. Very little ethanol harshness, showcasing its age and refinement.

About the Distillery

L.W. Harper Distilling Company, often associated with I.W. Harper, has a storied history in Kentucky bourbon production. Known for its commitment to quality and classic bourbon profiles, bottles from this era represent a legacy of traditional distillation practices, yielding whiskies with characteristic smoothness and depth, even at a lower proof.