As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to delve into the world of bourbon and explore the aging processes that contribute to its unique flavors and characteristics. Ancient Age 10 Star, once a bourbon that proudly displayed its age of 10 years on the label, has certainly undergone some changes over the years.
In its heyday, Ancient Age 10 Star was a bourbon that boasted a minimum age of 10 years. This meant that the bourbon had been aged in oak barrels for a decade, allowing it to develop deep and complex flavors. The aging process imparted rich caramel and vanilla notes, as well as a smoothness that can only be achieved through time.
However, as the stocks of Ancient Age 10 Star began to dwindle, the producers faced a dilemma. They had to decide whether to continue offering a 10-year-old product or find a way to maintain the brand while using younger bourbon. Unfortunately, they chose the latter option.
Today, Ancient Age 10 Star is no longer aged for a decade. Instead, it falls into the category of non-age-stated (NAS) bourbon, meaning that the exact age of the whiskey is not disclosed on the label. It is widely believed that the current iteration of Ancient Age 10 Star is a blend of bourbons aged between 3 to 6 years.
This significant reduction in aging time has undoubtedly affected the flavor profile of Ancient Age 10 Star. While it may still possess some of the traditional bourbon characteristics, such as sweetness and oakiness, the depth and complexity that come with extended aging are likely diminished.
From a personal perspective, I have had the opportunity to taste both the older 10-year-old version of Ancient Age 10 Star and the newer NAS expression. The difference is noticeable. The older version had a velvety smoothness and a richness that lingered on the palate, whereas the newer iteration felt younger and less developed.
It is important to note that the aging process plays a crucial role in the quality and taste of bourbon. As bourbons age in oak barrels, they interact with the wood, absorbing flavors and undergoing chemical changes that contribute to their unique profiles. The longer the bourbon ages, the more time it has to develop these characteristics.
Ancient Age 10 Star, once a bourbon aged for a minimum of 10 years, has undergone a significant transformation. The current expression is believed to be a blend of bourbons aged between 3 to 6 years, and the absence of an age statement on the label further emphasizes this change. While the newer version may still offer some enjoyable aspects, it is unlikely to possess the same depth and complexity as its older counterpart.