Virgin 15-year 101 proof (Heaven Hill pre-fire) 1987

Experience a rare piece of bourbon history with this 1987 vintage, 15-year-old Virgin Kentucky Bourbon from Meadowlawn Distilling Co. Its exceptional age and meticulous charcoal filtration deliver a profound complexity and unparalleled smoothness, making every sip a journey through time and craftsmanship. This limited release embodies the pinnacle of vintage Kentucky bourbon.

Tasting Notes

Nose: A sophisticated and complex nose immediately presents with deep caramel, vanilla bean, and toasted oak. Hints of dried dark fruit emerge, including fig and prune, intertwined with subtle baking spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. A faint wisp of leather and tobacco adds further depth, signifying its significant age, while the charcoal filtration likely contributes to a surprising cleanliness underneath the rich aromas.

Palate: The palate is remarkably full-bodied and velvety, coating the mouth luxuriousy. Initial flavors are a harmonious blend of brown sugar, butterscotch, and sweet toffee. The 101 proof asserts itself with a pleasant warmth, but without harshness, allowing robust notes of dark chocolate, roasted nuts, and charred oak to shine through. The extended aging has mellowed any sharp edges, leading to a profound interplay of sweet and savory elements. The charcoal filtration likely provides an exceptionally smooth entry, allowing the aged complexities to build without distraction.

Finish: The finish is exceptionally long, warm, and satisfying. Lingering notes of sweet oak and baking spices persist, gradually giving way to a pleasant dryness with accents of dark cocoa and a faint, delightful smokiness. A profound sense of aged refinement remains, making each sip a memorable experience.

About the Distillery

Meadowlawn Distilling Co. appears to be a historic, perhaps defunct or lesser-known, distillery, given the vintage '1987' of this release. Many distilleries from that era have either ceased operations, been acquired, or have their bourbons become rare collector's items. The existence of this 15-year-old, charcoal-filtered bourbon suggests a commitment to quality and traditional Kentucky distilling practices.