As of 2021, Early Times is still being produced, albeit under new ownership. Sazerac, a prominent spirits company, acquired the Early Times brand in 2020, which included not only the brand name but also the existing whiskey stocks. This means that the whiskey currently available under the Early Times label was produced prior to the brand's acquisition by Sazerac.
However, it is important to note that Sazerac has plans to transition production of Early Times to their 1792 Distillery in 2021. While the whiskey produced at 1792 Distillery may not be available on the market just yet, it is expected that the same mashbill, or recipe, used for Early Times will be maintained to preserve the brand's consistent flavor profile.
Maintaining the same mashbill when transitioning production to a new distillery is a common practice in the whiskey industry. By doing so, distillers aim to ensure that the flavor characteristics that consumers associate with a particular brand are preserved.
For whiskey enthusiasts, this news may bring a sense of relief, as it suggests that the familiar taste of Early Times will likely remain unchanged despite the change in ownership and production location. Consistency is often highly valued in the world of spirits, and maintaining the same mashbill is a key factor in achieving this.
It is worth mentioning that personal taste preferences can vary greatly when it comes to whiskey. Some individuals may have a particular fondness for the flavor profile of Early Times, while others may have a different opinion. Whiskey tasting is a subjective experience, and each person's palate is unique.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have encountered various instances where changes in ownership or production location have raised concerns among consumers about potential alterations to the flavor of their favorite spirits. However, it is important to remember that distilleries strive to maintain the integrity and character of their brands, often going to great lengths to ensure consistency.
While the ownership of Early Times has changed, Sazerac has indicated that they plan to maintain the same mashbill when production transitions to their 1792 Distillery. This suggests that the flavor profile of Early Times should remain consistent, providing a sense of reassurance to fans of the brand. However, personal taste preferences ultimately play a significant role in how individuals perceive and enjoy whiskey, so it is always recommended to try a product for oneself to form an informed opinion.