I've had the pleasure of exploring the world of bourbon for many years, and Old Grand-Dad 114 is a brand that has certainly caught my attention. When it comes to identifying the distillery behind Old Grand-Dad 114, it's important to understand the history and changes in ownership that have occurred over time.
Old Grand-Dad 114 has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. Originally, it was produced by the Old Taylor distillery, which was known for its high-quality bourbons. However, in 1987, Jim Beam acquired National Distillers, the previous owner of Old Taylor, and with it, the rights to Old Grand-Dad 114.
Jim Beam has been a prominent player in the bourbon industry for many years, and their acquisition of Old Grand-Dad 114 only solidified their position. While Jim Beam is the current owner of the brand, it's worth noting that they have maintained the traditional name and bottle shape of Old Grand-Dad 114, preserving its legacy.
As a sommelier and brewer, I've had the opportunity to taste Old Grand-Dad 114 on numerous occasions. It's a bold and robust bourbon, with a higher proof of 114 (hence the name). This higher proof gives it a more intense flavor profile, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak. It's a bourbon that stands out among the rest, and it's no surprise that it has garnered a loyal following over the years.
In terms of production, Old Grand-Dad 114 is crafted using the traditional bourbon-making process. This includes sourcing high-quality corn, rye, and malted barley, distilling the mash, and aging the spirit in charred oak barrels. The specific details of the distillation process and aging techniques used by Jim Beam for Old Grand-Dad 114 are proprietary secrets, carefully guarded to ensure the consistency and quality of the final product.
It's fascinating to see how the ownership of a brand like Old Grand-Dad 114 can change over time, yet the essence of the bourbon remains intact. Jim Beam's acquisition of National Distillers and the subsequent ownership of Old Grand-Dad 114 has only added to the brand's legacy. As a bourbon enthusiast, I appreciate the efforts of distilleries like Jim Beam in preserving the heritage and craftsmanship of beloved brands like Old Grand-Dad 114.
To sum it all up, Old Grand-Dad 114 is currently produced by Jim Beam, who acquired the brand when they purchased National Distillers in 1987. Despite changing hands, the name and bottle shape have remained consistent, ensuring that the essence of this iconic bourbon is preserved for generations to come.