Beam Revamps a Classic With 7-Year-Old Edition of Old Grand-Dad Bottled In Bond Bourbon

On Monday, the James B. Beam Distilling Co. unveiled a new annual release: Old Grand-Dad 7-Year-Old Bottled In Bond Bourbon. The original Old Grand-Dad Bottled In Bond is a budget-friendly favorite of many bourbon drinkers, so this 7-year edition is sure to excite. While not quite as affordable as the original, the new version still has a tame suggested retail price of $39.99. This first iteration is a blend of bourbons distilled in spring 2018.

The bourbon meets the standards of the Bottled-in-Bond Act, meaning it was distilled in a single season, at one distillery and aged at least four years in a federally bonded warehouse. Beam’s new 7-year expression exceeds the minimum age and comes in at 100 proof.

Old Grand-Dad, originally bottled in 1882, has long had a reputation among bartenders and collectors for its spicy, rye-forward profile. Beam acquired the brand in 1987 and has kept its signature high-rye mash bill intact.

“This fine bourbon is cut to 100 proof to reach its optimal and distinctively classic OGD flavor and body,” the company said in a statement. “Patiently aged while converging the high rye recipe bourbon drinkers know and love with extra time in the barrel.”

According to Beam, the 7-year-old expression features deep copper tones, bold caramel and vanilla on the nose, and a palate of sweet caramel, charred oak and vanilla. The finish is described as full-bodied and long, with lingering caramel notes.

Old Grand-Dad 7-Year Bonded will be released annually moving forward, though Beam has not disclosed how many bottles are being produced.

The new age-stated bottle adds to a growing list of recent premium releases under Beam’s historic brands, including Booker’s, Baker’s, Little Book, Knob Creek and Basil Hayden’s.