As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of tasting and analyzing a wide variety of spirits, including Old Grand-Dad bourbon. When it comes to determining whether a bourbon has sugar, it's important to consider the overall flavor profile and production process.
Old Grand-Dad is known for its bold and robust flavor, and I must say that it does have some sweetness to it. However, it is not the kind of sweetness that comes from added sugar. Instead, the sweetness in Old Grand-Dad comes from the natural sugars present in the grains used during the fermentation process.
One of the key characteristics of Old Grand-Dad is its nose, or aroma. When I take a whiff of this bourbon, I immediately detect a strong and distinct tobacco note. It's reminiscent of a rich and smoky pipe tobacco, which adds a depth and complexity to the overall experience.
Another prominent aroma in Old Grand-Dad is toasted nuts. This brings a nutty and slightly sweet quality to the bourbon. It's like biting into a freshly roasted almond or pecan, with a hint of caramelization. This nuttiness adds a pleasant richness to the flavor profile.
The heavy oak presence in Old Grand-Dad is undeniable. This bourbon is aged in charred oak barrels, which imparts deep flavors of vanilla, caramel, and brown sugar. The oak also contributes to the overall sweetness of the bourbon, enhancing its complexity and depth.
Speaking of caramel and brown sugar, these flavors are definitely present in Old Grand-Dad. They provide a smooth and velvety sweetness that balances out the bold and robust elements of the bourbon. However, it's important to note that these flavors come from the natural interaction between the bourbon and the oak barrels during the aging process, rather than from added sugars.
In my personal experience, I have found Old Grand-Dad to be a well-balanced bourbon that offers a delightful combination of sweetness and richness. It's not overly sweet like some liqueurs or flavored spirits, but rather, it has a natural and nuanced sweetness that enhances the overall drinking experience.
Old Grand-Dad does have a certain level of sweetness, but it does not come from added sugar. Instead, the sweetness in this bourbon is derived from the natural sugars present in the grains and the interaction with the oak barrels during the aging process. It's a testament to the craftsmanship and quality of the bourbon, and it adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile.