Tales from the Bottom Shelf - Review of Old Grand Dad 114

The title of this post, “Tales from the Bottom Shelf” may be perceived as a negative connotation.  Trust me when I say that this is only referring to the spot that the liquor stores choose to place this hidden gem of the bourbon world.  In an age where some enthusiasts are only seeking the latest limited edition offering from one of the big boys, there are missed opportunities for great tasting from these same distilleries.

One such offering is the classic 114 proof sipper from Jim Beam – Old Grand Dad.  Since this bottle spends its life on the bottom shelf of almost every liquor store, it doesn’t get too much attention.  My first introduction to this beauty was in a cocktail paired with a cinnamon syrup, ginger and soda.  A fine cocktail but once I realized how great this was on its own, I quickly changed my ways.

There is a ton of flavor packed into to OGD 114.  Much like its brethren, the more mature Basil Hayden, the lower proof 100 edition and the 86 (or 80 depending on how old the bottle is) it presents in a deep amber color with nose of orange among the classic caramel notes.   My favorite way to drink bourbon is to find the sweet spot around 108 proof.  At 57% ABV, This can be a bit spicy.  I suggest letting your dram breath for a few minutes, take a sip and add a small piece of ice to further soften.  

The palate brings more orange with hints of fresh pepper, cinnamon, herbal notes of sage and mint with a classic vanilla tone.  Though it does not offer an age stamp, OGD 114 drinks like 4-year-old bourbon.  The hints of oak and deep color validate this assumption.  

My favorite part of this $24 bourbon is the finish.  Long, rich, delicious without a hint of bitterness.  Even at this proof, it is dangerously smooth and easy to drink.  One warning - don’t enjoy it too much – it will make you swear off those 80 proof “watered down” bourbons! 

Where to find OGD - Any liquor store....

Price - $19 - $30.00

Review of the Barreled Aged Pure Maple Syrup aged in Pappy Van Winkle Bourbon Barrels

The word “pappy” has almost become a common household name these days.  At least around here in Kentucky anyways.  And even though many know it as bourbon, many of them don’t realize that there are other products that have received a golden kiss from the empty barrels that once aged the most sought after bourbon in the world.  One of those products is the barrel-aged pure maple syrup aged in Pappy Van Winkle bourbon barrels sold by the Pappy & Company. 
The Pappy & Company partnered with a great family owned company found in the state of Ohio called Bissel Maple Farm to form this barreled finish sweetness.  I love bourbon and I love maple syrup and this is a perfect match simply made in a barrel. The strong smell of bourbon is very distinct when the cap is removed and The color of the maple syrup has a dark amber, enhanced from the finishing process of bourbon barrels.  The Pappy syrup is thinner than one would find in a store bought maple syrup, a good characteristic of a well-balanced syrup.  This property helps using it in cocktails, cooking, and a high stack of flapjacks.  

Many believe that maple syrup has natural antioxidants that can prevent diseases caused by free radicals, such as cancer or diabetes.  So both with whiskey having a history of medicinal proposes along with the natural benefits of maple syrup, this is a combination that cannot be missed. 
It’s set at a good price point considering it’s an artisan style syrup and the fact that it’s finished in pappy barrels.  

So, if you want to further in light your friends in your bourbon knowledge, make them some fluffy pancakes or french toast and finish it off with some real pappy syrup.   

Per Pappy & Co.
 
This current batch of pure maple syrup was made with sap harvested from the Bissell's maple Farm in Ohio in the Spring of 2015 and aged 6 months in Van Winkle 10 and 12 year old barrels.

http://bissellmaplefarm.com/ 

Retail Price - $38.00

Where to buy?

Pappyco.com 

Jefferson Reserve Groth Reserve Cask Finish Review

Jefferson's newest submission to the world of bourbon comes from a wine barrel.  This bottling is presented in the traditional Jefferson's Reserve mold with a distinguishing red label sporting all the critical specs.  Groth, a 4-6 year old chill filtered bourbon is mellowed in former cabernet wine casks sourced form California's Groth Family Winery.  The roughly 9 month finishing process in these French oak barrels lends a number of unique characteristics to the spirit.  The color of this sipper has just a hint of the red hued cousin that formerly occupied the barrel. 

The nose is reminiscent of a classic 6 year whiskey with prominent vanilla notes and a nutty aroma. 

On the palate, Groth presents familiar notes of caramel and vanilla.  Coming in at 90.2 proof, the best way to enjoy this tasty beverage is over a few ice cubes which releases a sweet nose and red wine notes.   I have tried Groth a number of different times.  Each round, I find different notes to call out.  Almonds, nectarine, honey, peaches, berries and even toffee. 

Towards the end of the tasting, you really discover the flavors of the wine barrel aging.  There is a dry finish similar to that of a quality cabernet. 

I really enjoyed this unique entry into the bourbon world.  It comes with a price tag around $80 so it is a special occasion drink.   Try it today with a few other bourbon enthusiasts - you will be glad you did.  

http://jeffersonsbourbon.com/