The fourth release in Heaven Hill’s Old Fitzgerald Bottled-In-Bond collection is the oldest yet, featuring a 15-year age statement. As required by law, this bottled-in-bond bourbon was produced at a single distillery during one distilling season, aged at least four years, and bottled at 100 proof. The limited edition release hits shelves at a suggested retail price of $150.

Spiced dark caramel, buttered rum cake, figs, and oak spice envelope the nose. On the palate, multiple layers of caramelized sugars are joined by hints of candied pecans, fruitcake, root beer concentrate, and oak spice. The spice notes ramp up a bit going into the warm, slightly dry finish.

What’s interesting is that for such an old whiskey, oak domination isn’t an issue. Instead, oak spice and tannins season the whiskey. I love the waves of dark, caramelized sugars and the dried fruit. The entry is a touch soft, as the bourbon drinks under its 50% abv. All in all, the Fall 2019 edition of Old Fitzgerald Bottled-In-Bond is my favorite. Recommended, but only if you can find a bottle for retail pricing.

Thanks to Heaven Hill for the sample. As always, all thoughts and opinions are my own.