Ancient Age and Ancient Age 10 Star are both bourbon whiskies produced by the Ancient Age Distilling Co. However, there are some notable differences between the two expressions.
1. Age Statement: The most significant difference is the presence of an age statement on the Ancient Age 10 Star bottle. This means that the whiskey inside has been aged for a minimum of 10 years. On the other hand, the regular Ancient Age bourbon no longer carries an age statement, indicating that the whiskey is aged for an undisclosed period of time. This lack of age statement suggests that the aging process may vary and that the whiskey may consist of younger spirits blended with older ones.
2. Proof: Another difference between the two expressions is the range of proofs at which they have been bottled. Ancient Age has been available at proofs ranging from 80 to 107, while Ancient Age 10 Star was typically bottled at 90 proof. The higher proof of the regular Ancient Age bottlings allows for a more robust and intense flavor profile, while the 10 Star expression offers a slightly lower proof for a smoother and more approachable drinking experience.
3. Flavor Profile: Due to the longer aging period, Ancient Age 10 Star is likely to exhibit more complexity and depth of flavors compared to the regular Ancient Age. The additional years in the barrel allow the whiskey to develop richer notes of oak, caramel, vanilla, and spices. However, since the regular Ancient Age does not have an age statement, the flavor profile may vary depending on the specific batch or blend.
4. Availability: Ancient Age 10 Star is a discontinued expression, which means it may be more challenging to find bottles of this particular bourbon. On the other hand, regular Ancient Age bourbon is still produced and widely available in the market. The discontinuation of Ancient Age 10 Star may be due to various reasons, such as changes in production techniques, demand, or marketing strategies.
5. Collectability and Value: As Ancient Age 10 Star is no longer in production, it may hold some collectability value among whiskey enthusiasts and collectors. Limited availability and the allure of a discontinued expression often drive up the secondary market prices for such bottles. Regular Ancient Age, being an ongoing and readily available product, is generally more affordable and accessible to the average consumer.
It's important to note that the specific characteristics and experiences with each expression may vary depending on individual tastes and preferences. Personal experiences and preferences play a significant role in how one perceives and enjoys different whiskies. Exploring and comparing various expressions can be an exciting journey of discovery and appreciation for the nuances of bourbon.