Old Man Winter Bourbon, produced by Preservation Distillery and Farm, is sourced from Kentucky and Indiana. This blend combines nearly 9-year-old Indiana bourbon and 6-year-old Kentucky pot still wheated bourbon, and is bottled at 109.8 proof. Part of Preservation’s boutique lineup, which includes Very Olde St. Nick and Rare Perfection, Old Man Winter retails for about $169.99.
It certainly would be appropriate as a winter warmer, perfumed with mild vanilla and spice, while the palate opens with clove, cinnamon and allspice, plus a dusting of cocoa powder.
Strawberry and maraschino cherry elements make a surprise appearance on the finish, adding another layer of nuance to the what eventually emerges as a quite creamy, nougaty body. Lingering, pleasant, doughy finish.
It's a nice taste, but these notes don't quite elevate the expression beyond what I expect from a solid bourbon. It's a tasty choice, for sure, but don't look for anything to set this apart as a new favorite.
All in all, this is an intriguing combination of elements that is likely bringing together enough different points of origin to become something widely enjoyable but somewhat indistinct. It’s a little rough and tumble when it comes to the alcohol side of the spectrum, but I quite like the way it’s combining fruit and spice in particular.
